Nigerian documentary filmmaker, Joel Kachi Benson, has been awarded the 2025 Emmy for Outstanding Arts and Culture Documentary at the News and Documentary Emmy Awards held in New York City.
His winning documentary, Madu, captures the remarkable journey of Anthony Madu, a young Nigerian ballet dancer whose life changed after a video of him dancing barefoot in the rain went viral online.
The film has earned international acclaim for its emotional depth and cultural significance.
Benson, in his acceptance speech, dedicated the award to Nigeria and to young dreamers everywhere, highlighting the power of storytelling.
He said: “This is a great honour. Thanks to Disney and the entire team at Hunting Lane.
“This win is for Nigeria, and we dedicate it to Anthony Madu and every child out there with a dream. The world is waiting to hear your story.”
Madu chronicles Anthony’s transformation, tracing his steps from the streets of Lagos to the prestigious Elmhurst Ballet School in the United Kingdom, where he was granted a scholarship.
The documentary premiered on Disney+ and continues to receive global recognition for its inspiring narrative and artistic excellence.
