LSE Appoints Chude Jideonwo as Creative-in-Residence

Chude Jideonwo

CHUDE Jideonwo, a renowned media personality, has been appointed as the Creative-in-Residence at the London School of Economics and Political Science, effective September 2024. He is the host of the popular talk show #WithChude, where he engages with notable personalities, exploring their journey to stardom and life's challenges.

The LSE Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa announced Jideonwo's appointment on Monday, recognizing his exceptional work in building media brands and platforms across Africa. He has inspired a new generation of leaders and shaped new narratives, impacting millions of young people. His historic contributions to the continent's media landscape made him an ideal candidate for this role.

As Creative-in-Residence, Jideonwo will collaborate with the university to boost the creative industries across Africa. He will leverage LSE's resources, networks, and partners to map, enable, and accelerate growth in this sector. This appointment marks an exciting new chapter in Jideonwo's career, and his expertise will undoubtedly enrich the LSE community.

“Our residents programme is part of our strategy to connect with platforms and creative sectors across Africa and we are excited to welcome as first creative in residence, Chude,” said Dr. Martha Geiger Mwenitete, of the Institute for Africa, praised Chude Jideonwo's appointment as Creative-in-Residence during his recent visit to LSE in London.

“We are really pleased to have you and we really would like you to influence colleagues to get involved in some of the creative initiatives we'll be bringing,” the statement added.

Reacting to the development, Jideonwo, in a post on his Instagram handle said he was happy to be appointed the Creative- in-Residence at the institution because he had always worked and allowed the universe do the rest for him

"So I have a big announcement. I thought they would wait until the more formal announcement, but two weeks ago, they let the cat out of the bag. I have just been appointed Creative-in-Residence at the London School of Economics.

“The kind of unexpected news that blows your mind. Many years ago, I made a decision that changed my life: Focus on the work, never hustle, and let the universe do the rest.

“After Yale and Oxford, I decided to no longer apply for any fellowship or residence. I wanted only to be invited based on the impact of our work. I was almost certain it would take about 10 years for any of that to happen (I mean, who do you think you are?), and I was comfortable with that consequence. I would focus on the work I had chosen.

“And then, in the midst of inevitable doubt, the universe always sends a big message of affirmation,” he wrote.

He added that he was looking forward to collaborating with the school's faculty, students, and networks to accelerate the growth of the creative economy across Africa.

As a distinguished fellow at Yale University and an alumnus of the prestigious Archbishop Tutu Leadership Programme, Jideonwo brings a wealth of expertise and experience to his new position as Creative-in-Residence at LSE.