

DEBORAH OLUFA
FOUNDER/CEO & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER








A VISIONARY SHAPING THE FUTURE OF AFRICAN STORYTELLING
Deborah Olufa, known to the world as Debbie Soul, is a force of nature—a celebrated artist, visionary producer, and passionate entrepreneur whose work transcends borders and inspires generations. With a voice that resonates across continents, Deborah has captivated audiences through her illustrious career, which includes celebrated tours across Italy and the United Kingdom. From headlining iconic events like the MUSON Jazz Festival to performing on prestigious stages in Lagos, she has cemented her legacy as a global sensation and a cultural ambassador for African arts. Deborah’s journey is rooted in her unyielding passion for music and her dedication to excellence. She began singing at a young age, guided by her family’s unwavering support. Her talent earned her the prestigious MUSON/MTNF Music Scholarship, allowing her to refine her craft at the MUSON School of Music. She continued her academic journey at the University of Lagos, where she studied musicology, deepening her understanding of music’s transformative power and its ability to connect people across cultures. As a musicologist and artist, Deborah seamlessly merges her academic depth with her artistic brilliance, creating works that are as authentic as they are innovative. Her performances transcend genres, infusing African tonality into Jazz, Soul, Black Gospel, and contemporary music. She has shared stages with world-renowned artists, including percussionist Renu Hussain and harpist Devon Carpenter, proving her versatility and ability to bridge cultural divides. Deborah’s entrepreneurial journey led her to establish Debbie Soul Entertainment, a company born from her dream of empowering underrepresented artists and amplifying African voices. With a mission to spotlight diverse stories, the company has become a beacon of hope and creativity, setting new standards for artistic excellence. Through Debbie Soul Entertainment, Deborah aims to inspire future generations while using the power of storytelling and music to create lasting change. Now, Deborah is bringing her boldest vision to life with Ije The Musical. Born from a desire to authentically represent African stories and celebrate the richness of its culture, this groundbreaking production is a dazzling fusion of music, dance, and drama. Ije The Musical highlights the beauty, resilience, and diversity of African heritage, offering audiences an unforgettable journey into the heart of the continent’s traditions. For Deborah, Ije The Musical is more than a production—it’s the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Having performed in numerous stage plays, she has always envisioned herself on the other side, bringing a story to life as a producer. With this project, she is not only actualizing her dream but also creating a platform for others to shine. Deborah’s commitment goes beyond the stage. Deeply rooted in her purpose is the drive to bring hope and opportunity to Africa’s vulnerable children. She believes that music is a universal language capable of healing, inspiring, and transforming lives. Through her work, she is lighting the way for future generations, proving that art has the power to uplift communities, bridge divides, and create a legacy of hope. With Ije The Musical, Deborah Olufa redefines what it means to tell an African story—authentic, vibrant, and deeply moving. As she prepares to take the American stage by storm, she invites the world to celebrate the beauty of African culture and join her in forging paths of hope that will resonate for generations to come.