My Directorial Debut is here! Iyanu: Child of Wonder

A Monumental Milestone: My Directorial Debut on Iyanu
Premiered April 5th on Cartoon Network and now streaming on Max

I’m proud and incredibly grateful to share a major milestone in my creative journey—my directorial debut on the new hit animated series Iyanu: Child of Wonder!

The series premiered on April 5th on Cartoon Network and began streaming April 6th on HBO Max. It has been an amazing experience to see this show finally come to life and reach audiences around the world. Being part of a project of this scale, depth, and cultural significance has truly been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.

For those who don’t know, I’ve spent many years working in the animation and film industry as a storyboard artist and as an assistant to directors on a wide variety of projects. But Iyanu gave me the opportunity to step into the role of Director for the first time—and to do so on a show that celebrates African mythology, heritage, and storytelling in such a powerful way.

Produced by the Black-owned Lion Forge Animation and created by Lagos-born Roye Okupe of YouNeek Studios, Iyanu is more than just a show—it’s a cultural moment. It brought together an incredibly talented, international team of artists, writers, animators, and creatives who all poured their hearts into making something truly special.

Directing Iyanu reminded me why I love this medium. It reignited my passion for storytelling and collaboration, and I look forward to expanding my directorial work even further in the future.

To everyone who tuned in, supported, or helped bring this vision to life—thank you.

If you haven’t seen it yet, do yourself a favor and check out Iyanu on Cartoon Network and now streaming on Max!

With gratitude,
Dawud Anyabwile
Director | Storyteller | Visionary