The Benin Writers’ Society (BWS) has honoured its Vice President, Events and External Affairs, Princess Diana Isoken Eweka, with the inaugural Henry Osegbowa Literary Award for her contributions to literature, cultural promotion, youth development and the creative arts.
The award was presented by the Sir Henry Osegbowa Foundation in recognition of Eweka’s sustained efforts to promote literary development, preserve cultural heritage and create opportunities for young people and emerging creatives.
A statement by the foundation described Eweka, a member of the Benin Royal Family, as a writer, poet, storyteller, beauty professional and entrepreneur whose activities have contributed to the growth of the literary and creative community in Edo State and beyond.
The foundation said, “Princess Diana Isoken Eweka has consistently demonstrated excellence, integrity, innovation and selfless service through her commitment to literature, cultural advocacy, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship and community development.”
As Vice President, Events and External Affairs of the BWS, Eweka has been involved in the planning and promotion of literary programmes, including the Battle of Stanzas and Poetry Playground, which provide platforms for writers and poets to showcase their talents.
According to the foundation, her work has also strengthened the society’s outreach, partnerships and engagement with the wider literary community.
“Her visionary leadership, strategic partnerships and impactful programmes have helped strengthen the literary ecosystem and create platforms for discovering, nurturing and celebrating literary talent,” the statement said.
The foundation also highlighted Eweka’s role as a founding member of the City Café Book Club, where she promotes reading, intellectual engagement and literary appreciation among young people and professionals.
It said her work as a poet and storyteller had further established her as an advocate for literature, with her writings and performances addressing issues relating to culture, identity, values and society.
“Through spoken word performances, mentoring and literary advocacy, she continues to provide leadership and inspiration to emerging writers and creatives,” the foundation said.
Beyond literature, Eweka is the Chief Executive Officer of D’PerfGlow Makeovers, where she combines entrepreneurship and creative artistry in the beauty industry.
The foundation said her work in the beauty sector had enabled her to promote confidence, individuality and professional excellence while demonstrating the link between creativity and entrepreneurship.
It also cited her digital literary platform, Diana Diary, a WhatsApp channel where she serialises original stories and shares literary reflections with readers.
The platform, according to the foundation, reflects her efforts to make storytelling accessible to contemporary audiences and encourage continued engagement with literature.
Eweka was also recognised for her contribution to the digital marketing campaign for the Edo Carnival, where she used her writing and communication skills to promote Edo culture, tourism and heritage.
The foundation said her contribution helped increase the visibility of the festival and project aspects of the Benin Kingdom and Edo State to wider audiences.
“Her ability to seamlessly blend creativity, business and cultural identity has earned her admiration across both the literary and beauty industries,” it said.
The Sir Henry Osegbowa Foundation said the award was intended to recognise individuals whose work reflected creativity, service, leadership and excellence.
“In honouring Princess Diana Isoken Eweka with the First Henry Osegbowa Literary Award, the Sir Henry Osegbowa Foundation celebrates not only her exceptional literary accomplishments but also her remarkable leadership, cultural advocacy, entrepreneurial excellence and steadfast dedication to enriching society through the transformative power of literature and the arts,” the statement said.
The foundation added that Eweka’s contributions continued to inspire writers, storytellers, young people and other creatives across Edo State and beyond.