Art finds its strongest expression when it moves beyond the canvas and becomes a voice for change. In this reflection, Godfrey Williams-Okorodus shares a powerful moment at the NO2FGM Awards, where his commissioned plaques honoured the courage of those fighting to end Female Genital Mutilation. A continuation of an artistic journey rooted in advocacy, humanity and the belief that art can challenge silence.

Words Ireho Aito | Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger! Photographs courtesy Godfrey Williams Okorodus

For Belgium-based Nigerian-born visual artist Godfrey Williams-Okorodus, art has never been only about aesthetics; it has always been a language of conscience, a tool for social transformation and a voice for those whose stories must be heard.

The founder of Labalaba Gallery in Antwerp, Belgium, Godfrey has spent decades building a bridge between African creativity, global audiences and social advocacy. His gallery, named after the Yoruba word for butterfly is a symbol of transformation, growth and renewal that reflects his philosophy of evolution and the belief that African art deserves its own authentic space and voice.

Standing proudly at the historic Bush House, London, he witnessed a deeply meaningful moment as the award plaques he created for Global Comfort were presented to individuals whose lives and work represent courage, advocacy and hope in the fight against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and shared his reflection on his Facebook page.

The specially commissioned awards were more than symbols of recognition. They carried a message, reflecting the theme of the occasion and celebrating the activists, survivors, and supporters who continue to challenge a harmful practice and protect the dignity of girls and women.

For Godfrey, this moment was another extension of a journey that began many years ago while using the power of visual art to confront injustice. Since 1998, he has used paintings, exhibitions and creative collaborations to raise awareness against FGM and other human rights violations, believing strongly that art can become a mirror through which society sees, questions and changes itself.

“I was very proud of myself at the Bush House, London, where the awards I made for Global Comfort were presented to the winners, FGM activists, victims and supporters who are working tirelessly to end this barbaric practice,” Godfrey reflected.

His commitment to this cause has seen his works travel internationally, bringing the conversation around FGM into galleries, institutions and public spaces. His advocacy through art has involved collaborations with other artists and exhibitions dedicated to challenging the silence surrounding the experiences of women and girls affected by the practice.

His gratitude extended to Comfort Momoh MBE, founder of Global Comfort and a respected FGM specialist and advocate whose decades of work have supported survivors and pushed for greater awareness of the issue.

“A big thanks to Comfort Momoh MBE, a true Amazon and mentor, for her steadfast commitment to eradicating FGM and other human rights violations,” he said.

From the canvases of his studio to the award plaques presented at Bush House, Godfrey Williams-Okorodus continues to prove that art is not only created to be admired but can also be created to challenge, heal and inspire change.

The artist who has always believed in the strength of African creativity continues to use his craft as a powerful voice for humanity. Through every brushstroke, pallette knife, sculpture and creation, the message remains clear and that is having a world free from FGM is possible, and art has a role to play in making that future visible.

iBAND Magazine, Celebrating Visual Arts from the Original.
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