Day One: Unveiling The Hive

Day one kicked off with a bang as attendees flocked to shop among unique vendors and indulge in a variety of culinary offerings. The Kids Village was a hub of non-stop fun with activities ranging from bouncy castles to face painting, ensuring that every child could participate and enjoy the festivities to the fullest. Wellness expert Jade Phillips led a masterclass on relaxation techniques, while Chef Chi demonstrated the art of cooking. Renowned fashion designer Ugo Monye shared his personal insights, and the night ended

with electrifying performances by EDM DJs and DJ Obi.

Day Two: A Day of Enrichment and Entertainment

Day two saw a continuation of the excitement, with attendees enjoying more shopping, delicious food, and engaging activities at the Kids Village. Kitchen Muse’s Bukie Akinmade hosted a cooking masterclass, while beauty expert Banke Meshida showcased beauty tools and techniques. The runway came alive with collections from Trax Apparel, Henri Uduku, and Mak Afrika. The day concluded with a Fireside chat on digital commerce and a high-energy performance by DJ Dope Caesar and Teni.

Day Three: A Grand Finale

On the final day, the event reached its peak with a fresh lineup of vendors, delectable food options, and engaging activities for children. Fashion masterclass by Kolapo Olabintan, cooking demonstrations by Chef Yeide Kuti and Dr. Chef Chi, and hair styling tips by Kotty Signature kept attendees entertained and informed. The runway featured stunning collections from Titi Belo, Jon Pelumi, Cladini, and Ohlanna, the runway was graced by the presence of ProvidusBank staff, showing their support for the talented fashion designers and adding an extra touch of elegance to the event. 

The day ended with a Fireside chat on leadership and management with esteemed guests Toju Foyeh, Tosin Ogundadegbe, Dimma Umeh, Steve Harris, and Abiodun Ariyo, Head – Export Business from ProvidusBank. Followed by a captivating performance by DJ Consequence and Tiwa Savage.

The Hive by ProvidusBank event was a resounding success, bringing together industry experts, creatives, and enthusiasts in a vibrant and dynamic environment.

We look forward to future editions that promise even more excitement and inspiration for all who attend.

The post The Hive by ProvidusBank: A Celebration of Creativity, Learning, and Community appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

You can expect to meet and listen to renowned fashion designer Ugo Monye, Life strategist Steve Harris, Economist Ugo Dre, award-winning food master chef Bukie Akinmade, restaurant blogger Uganze Kalu, Wellness enthusiast Jade Phillips, serial entrepreneur Abiodun Animashaun, Beauty entrepreneur Adeola Adeyemi, makeup maestro Olajide David Okerayi, beauty content creator Dimma Umeh, award-winning fashion wizard Toju Foyeh, among a host of others. This incredible lineup of speakers, and more, will grace the stage at The Hive by Providus Bank. Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and empowered by the insights from some of the brightest minds in their respective fields.

Visit our Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thehivebyprovidus/ for more information about The Hive by Providus Bank.

Register here to attend – https://www.thehive.providusbank.com/

The post Be Inspired by Leading Voices at The Hive by Providus Bank! appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

The Business of Photography Conference 2024 (BOP2024), a Conference designed for advocating the creative industry in Nigeria with a focus on the photography and videography industry and enhancing its recognition as a formidable business sector in Nigeria and Africa, concluded with resounding success on March 20th, 2024, at The Muson Center, Onikan, Lagos, Nigeria.

The conference, being the fifth edition, attracted industry leaders, policymakers, creatives, and aspiring photographers and videographers, showcased insightful discussions, thought-provoking panels, and networking opportunities, cementing its reputation as a premier event in the creative industry calendar.

Mr. Kola Oshalusi, the convener of BOP Conference, set the tone with his opening remark, emphasizing the importance of harnessing Nigeria’s cultural wealth for economic prosperity. He said: “The creative industry in Nigeria has the potential to employ everyone who doesn’t have a job if only it is explored and that is the basis of this conference.”

Throughout the day, attendees were treated to a diverse array of perspectives and expertise, beginning with Bola Yinka Obebe’s illuminating speech on Speak Ede, followed by Obi Asika’s, Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture, captivating Keynote Address on the transformative power of arts and culture. He said: “Photography is an absolute critical part of communication, and everything we do.

If you check the growth of social media over the last decade, you’ll see that platforms like Instagram and Facebook have been driven massively by photography and visual direction. In Nigeria, we’re working to see more platforms to provide better opportunities for Photographers in Nigeria” The conference featured engaging panel sessions, each exploring crucial themes pertinent to the creative economy.

The first session moderated by Yagazie Eguare featured industry stalwarts such as Tolagbe Martins, Mary Edoro, and Jokotade Shonowo, while topics ranged from exporting Brand Nigeria to empowering gender diversity and embracing cultural appreciation. Notable panelists including Dayo Adedayo, Yinka Obebe, Adeniyi Adebisi, Chris Ifeanyi Oputa, Tope Tedela, Kelechi Amadi Obi, Bukola Oloyede, Jokotade Shonowo, Stephen Tayo, Bayo Omoboriowo, and Chalya Shagaya shared invaluable insights and perspectives, sparking dynamic conversations and actionable solutions.

The conference also provided a platform for technological innovation, with a panel on smart technology moderated by Tobi Olanihun and featuring industry leaders such as Scott Eneje, Malik Afegbua, Oluseyi Magic, Ijeoma Amagwula, and Asabe Vincent-Okoro.

In addition to the enriching discussions, attendees had the opportunity to explore experiential spaces, including Slickcity’s VR display, Infinix gadgets showcase, and WOW Connect’s 360 photo booth, enhancing their understanding of the evolving landscape of visual storytelling.

Against the backdrop of a thriving global digital photography market, projected to soar to $149.98 billion by 2026 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4 percent, the Business of Photography Conference stands as a beacon of industry advancement. With smartphone penetration and a burgeoning interest in photography driving this growth, this conference has not only anticipated these trends but also paved the way for professionals to capitalize on this lucrative market.

As we celebrate the success of this conference, we affirm our commitment to empowering photographers worldwide to thrive in this dynamic landscape. The success of the BOP Conference would not have been possible without the generous support of a rich array of sponsors, including Insigna Media, Sony, Teps, Infinix, Peter Bello Foundation, MoutonCadet, BellaNaija, YD Company, Sotectonic, Africa Soft Power, St. Remy, Aforevo, RedEdit Magazine, PulseNG, LASAA, Meristem, Ro-Marong, Shuttlers, WOW Connect, FashionEVO, and Fab’lstyle. Reflecting on the conference, Mr. Kola Oshalusi, expressed his gratitude to all participants and stakeholders.

As the curtains draw on yet another remarkable edition of the Business of Photography Conference, we look forward to building on the momentum generated and continuing our mission to elevate photography into a formidable business sector in Nigeria and beyond.

For media inquiries and further information about the conference, contact: info@bopconference.com or visit www.bopconference.com

The post Business of Photography Conference 2024: Celebrating Success and Setting New Industry Standards appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

Sustainability is often viewed through the pillars of economic, environmental and social development with culture taking a back seat. This season “Commune” takes an exploratory dive into the work of creatives on the scene through the African cultural lens of Community, the starting point of our creative process.
At the heart of Woven Threads is celebrating the ingenuity and resilience of African fashion designers while emphasising the importance of sustainability and waste reduction in the industry. The exhibition brings together a diverse range of designers, experts, and stakeholders to discuss and showcase the best practices in African fashion design. Participating designers include: Green Access 2023 Cohort – Ajanée, By.Wuzzy, Dust of the Earth, Bornstarng, E.S.O by Liman, This Is Us, Kilentar, Lohije, Y’wandeLag, Eki Kere, and more.

Woven Threads V will feature:

1. Physical Presentations: Inspired by the successful AW18 showcase, designers will unveil their collections in an intimate, salon-style setting. Following each presentation, a ‘see now, buy now’ client-designer reception allows immediate purchase or order opportunities.
2. The Woven Threads Installation: This interactive installation will offer a deeper understanding of the “Commune” theme, highlighting the collaborative process and celebrating the unsung heroes of fashion.
3. Digital Presentations: Extending the reach beyond the physical event, Woven Threads V will also feature digital presentations, ensuring wider accessibility and audience engagement.

In the lead-up to Woven Threads V, Lagos Fashion Week will proudly support the State of Fashion’s 2024 Bienalle’s Nairobi activation curated by Sunny Dolat and scheduled for April 3rd to April 15th.
It will feature enlightening panel discussions and the premiere of a fashion film, offering attendees a unique insight into Sunny Dolat’s visual storytelling experience.

For more information and updates on Woven Threads V, please visit Lagos Fashion Week’s official website – www.lagosfashionweek.ng and follow us on social media @lagosfashionweekofficial

The post Lagos Fashion Week Announces Woven Threads V: Exploring the Power of Community in Fashion appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

Providus Bank is proud to announce the much-anticipated Providus Hive Fest, set to take place from March 30th to April 1st, 2024 at The Balmoral Palace, Victoria Island, Lagos. This exciting event promises to be a celebration of creativity, culture, and community, featuring over 150 exhibitors showcasing the finest in fashion, food, and beauty.

Attendees can look forward to a vibrant marketplace filled with unique and stylish offerings from top designers, culinary experts, and beauty brands. From trendy clothing and accessories to delectable treats and skincare products, there will be something for everyone to enjoy at The Hive By Providus.

In addition to the impressive lineup of exhibitors, the festival will also feature exclusive master classes where attendees can learn from industry experts and insiders. Whether you’re interested in perfecting your makeup skills, mastering the art of cooking, or staying ahead of the latest fashion trends, these master classes are sure to inspire and educate.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there – each day of the festival will culminate in a spectacular concert featuring some of Naija’s finest DJs and artistes. Get ready to dance the night away to the hottest beats and tunes, surrounded by a buzzing atmosphere of energy and excitement.

“We are thrilled to bring The Hive By Providus to our community,” said a spokesperson for Providus Bank. “This event is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and collaboration, and we can’t wait to showcase the incredible talent and diversity of our local fashion, food, and beauty industries.”

Don’t miss out on The Hive By Providus – mark your calendars for March 30th to April 1st and get ready to experience the ultimate fusion of fashion, food, and beauty. Join us for three days of fun, inspiration, and entertainment as we come together to celebrate all that makes our community unique and vibrant.

For more information and updates on The Hive By Providus, visit our website at http://thehive.providusbank.com or follow us on social media @thehivebyprovidus.

Register here to attend – https://www.thehive.providusbank.com/ 

See you at the festival.

The post Providus Bank Hosts Inaugural The Hive By Providus appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

Guided by a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of Nigerian culture, Abebi effortlessly blends traditional elements with cutting-edge design, resulting in a collection that stands as a testament to the intersection of heritage and modernity.

Abebi’s commitment to celebrating the opulence of African fashion is evident in every meticulously crafted piece.

Unlike conventional fashion lines, this collection by Abebi is more than a showcase of garments, serving as a medium for storytelling and personal expression, fostering a deeper connection between the wearer and the cultural narratives woven into the fabric.
The designs are infused with avant-garde aesthetics that ensures the collection is inclusive, catering to diverse tastes and body types. Beyond aesthetics, Abebi champions sustainability, aligning with the growing global demand for environmentally conscious fashion.

The creation of the ready-to-wear collection has been an intentional artistic journey and labor of love for Creative Director, Seyitan Atigarin, “This process was very cathartic for me. I was going through a very difficult time and my creative juices were running wild. I am really proud of this collection and can’t wait to showcase it to the world.’’

Abebi cordially invited the global audience to join the exclusive online unveiling of this collection, ensuring a virtual experience that seamlessly blended timeless elegance with the evanescent allure of high fashion.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C37xUJ4I-qH/?igsh=NGJ6NHc5NXZjNmUw

Launch details

Date: Thursday 29th February 2024

Follow Abebi by Tan on all platforms
Instagram- @abebibyhttps://www.instagram.com/reel/C37xUJ4I-qH/?igsh=NGJ6NHc5NXZjNmUwtan
Website – www.abebibytan.com

The post Fashion Forward: Abebi Sets the Tone for the Season! appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

1. How did you first discover your passion for photography, and what drew you
   specifically to capturing moments and details?
   – Pretty long story, but most important is I realized I could use it as a tool to empower myself and still tell enduring stories that I can always come back to and reminisce how I felt while creating each image.
2. As the Creative Director at Insigna Media, how do you envision the future of content
   creation in Africa, and what role do you see photography playing in that landscape?
   – Content creation like everything else that has defined human history is simply recording the moment to create history, it will define how people in future will interpret their ancestry, their root their heritage, it will define how generations yet unborn will be able to stand tall and proud of their lineage, so every form of it especially photography and motion-picture beyond text will be a huge determinant and defining factor, cos people would not just read, but will see what life was like fifty, One Hundred or Two hundred before their time.
3. The Business of Photography Conference has become a significant event in West Africa. What inspired you to create this conference, and what impact do you hope it will have on the photography industry?
   – The Business of photography Conference was created primarily out of the desire to effectively and efficiently monetize the creative industry with bias for photography and videography, but its has evolved into becoming not just a conference for conversation but for reflection, strategy and redefining the future of the creative industry in Africa, its has come to open up conversations about exploring the opportunities technology has to offer, what story telling has to offer, more importantly how culture can be a product of export and a tool for change. More importantly we can say in just few years of starting the movement, the photography industry in Nigeria has grown over 500% in revenue and opportunities.
4. The theme for BOP2024, “Culture Exchange – The Art of Business,” is intriguing. Can you share more about why you chose this theme and how it aligns with the current African entertainment industry?-
   -Its not news that the whole world is opening up to the power of African Creativity, its sound, its music, its movie is being explored in almost every corner of the world, yet the surface hasn’t even been scratched. Africa’s most powerful asset lies in its people and stories, Africa is the foundation of humanity. Why not turn the unique strength into products to produce inexhaustible wealth. Nigeria has 525 native languages and almost 200 tribes, more than all the languages spoken in the whole of Europe combined. Africa has over 3000, imagine the stories, culture and lifestyle embedded in each of these. We are talking about stories worth Trillions in USD, yet untold. So we are exploring how we can turn these culture stories in revenues.

5. In your opinion, what are some of the key avenues through which government support and structured financial investments can propel the photography and cinematography sectors in Nigeria and Africa as a whole?
   -Quite a lot of ways, government need to start seeing the soft power that the creative sector possesses in positioning the image and brand of the continent, everything is about perception, and that’s what the creative industry especially visual part of the industry has that need to be explored. Government needs to start creating laws and implementing policies to protect and promote the industry. Such laws should include enabling business environment as well industry focused trainings. Financial institutions should start looking at how to tap into the industry, search out Venture capitals who will look at the opportunities, more importantly learn more collaboratively about the industry to help them understand when and how to invest with limited and controlled risk.
6. With your extensive experience in events, portraits, fashion, lifestyle, and advertising photography, what advice would you give to aspiring photographers who want to excel in multiple genres? -Be consistent, build yourself in a specific field and expand if you can, create a system around your business, don’t stop learning, don’t stop evolving .
7. On a lighter note, what has been one of your most memorable photography experiences or projects so far, and why?

– Can’t think of any in particular, cos I do have a lot of those, working with many brands over time and having to understand that each project comes with its unique challenges and opportunities make it hard to pick one, I would say I am blessed with clients who have audacious goals and ideas and that forces me to think deeper and farther in bringing their ideas to life.

8. Valentine’s Day just passed, and love is still in the air. How do you capture the
essence of love in your photography, and what tips can you share for creating romantic
and heartfelt images?-

Lol I am an advocate of excitement, and love is about happiness and excitement either vertically or horizontal, and most of my images resonate that, my work is about happiness, spark and laughter. I think that’s the unique selling point of my work. I don’t shoot gloomy images. If it not happy, fun and exciting, I most likely didn’t shoot it

The post Investment Can Propel The Photography And Cinematography Industry : Kola Oshalusi appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

Twisters” star Glen Powell showed up  in a chocolate Brioni tux 

Ayo looked perfect in this dress.

Selena Gomez in this white dress.

Danielle Brooks in her custom #thecolorpurple inspired ombré Siriano gown

We can’t say if Cillian Murphy’s floppy little necktie was intentional or really a flop. But he looked great in this different ensemble of suit pieces.

Billie Elish’s SAG awards look was her regular Tom Boy outfit .

It’s only right to close the stage with this beautiful dress for Ali Wong, styled by taraswennen

The post Top looks from the SAG awards 2024 appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

Can you tell us about your journey in the media, music, and marketing communications industry and how it led you to your current role as Country Manager for Paramount Africa in Nigeria?

I started out on TV as a presenter and producer with Galaxy TV many years ago. I always knew I wanted more and desired to explore my creative side. Subsequently, I joined TBWA Concept as a copywriter, which was one of the most awarded and respected agencies at the time. From there, I moved to CentrespreadFCB, top ad agency at the time, as senior manager Copy. Later, I joined HITV as the Creative Manager for three years. After that, I took on the role of the Creative director for Glo at SO&U Saatchi&Saatchi for four years before assuming my current position as the Country Manager at Paramount.

The connection between being a creative leader and a business leader, as I am at Paramount, stems from my involvement in various ventures. I co-founded a digital marketing agency, Distinct Ideas Africa Limited. I also co-ran a talent management company in collaboration with a partner. What qualified me for this role was my deep understanding of how media works, informed by experience as both an employee and an entrepreneur.

I had two radio shows that ran every weekday for many years – “Final Score” on City FM 105.1 and a football hangout with Bada on Radio Continental. In these roles, I was not only responsible for creating and presenting content but also crucially involved in selling and marketing them. I built critical media agency relationships across major agencies and directly with brands/clients, understanding the language and intricacies vital for a business like Paramount that has a linear business that feeds off advertising revenue. My leadership skills have served me well in this role, and I’ve been in this position for six years now.

As a mentor with the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, what advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women, in the creative industry?

The advice is straightforward: be prepared for the challenges. Nigeria poses a difficult operating environment for any business, but it’s also a place where your business can thrive rapidly. If you expected a smooth ride without bumps or turbulence, you’d be deceiving yourself. Prepare to be resilient, be ready to go the extra mile – your endurance will be your greatest asset. It’s not just about your ability to run a business, inspire people, or attract clients; resilience is one attribute that will keep you in business for long.

Despite the unfriendly economic conditions, finding a way is imperative. For me, resilience is the crucial quality a business owner needs because challenges are constant. However, persisting through them yields incredible rewards. Successfully running a business in Nigeria means you can do well in any other business environment globally. Those who achieve this feat should be regarded as superheroes and awarded for their accomplishments in my opinion. It is far from easy at all.

How do you see the role of technology and digital platforms in shaping the future of the Nigerian creative sector?

We can all agree that the growth and evolution of the creative sector in the developed world has primarily been driven by technology over the years. Take music, for example – we’ve progressed from cassettes to CDs, and now, there’s no need for physical items; just your phone and a subscription on a streaming platform allow you to access an unlimited library of music from all over the world. This technological shift extends to every facet of the creative industry, from film and dance to spoken word to fashion, photography, name it. Technology is transforming everything; we’re now delving into virtual stores for fashion, where you can go online and try out an outfit of your body size without needing to go to a physical store .

Technology is the lifeblood and heartbeat of this industry. Everyone in this space must embrace technology in both their creative processes and distribution methods, enhancing the overall experience for end consumers. Running away from technology isn’t an option, and there’s immense potential if entrepreneurs leverage the opportunities it provides. My advice to business owners is simple: recognize that the game is global, stay aware of trends that reshape the landscape, especially those game-changers, embrace them, and employ local and native intelligence to adapt them to our unique environment. Doing so will undoubtedly yield abundant benefits.

Could you share some insights on the challenges and opportunities you’ve encountered while managing a music talent management and production services company like Peaceville Africa?

One challenge in the music industry is its high cost; nowadays, it’s almost a rule of thumb that you can’t effectively market or promote a song without spending 40 to 50 million naira. This includes expenses for shooting music videos, promoting on radio, TV, clubs, and even taking it to the streets. It’s a substantial financial investment with no guarantees, making it quite challenging. However, if you navigate these challenges wisely, there are opportunities for incredible benefits, particularly if you achieve global superstar status like Wizkid, Davido, Rema, Asake, Ayrastar, Burna Boy, or Tems. The potential is vast, but the challenges are equally daunting, requiring a delicate balance.

In terms of my unique experience managing talents, working with A-Class stars presents its own set of difficulties. One of the most challenging aspects is ensuring they adhere to the agreed-upon plan. Occasionally, artists might show up at private events for extra earnings, which can conflict with their brand image. As a talent manager, maintaining brand consistency is crucial, and it’s an ongoing struggle. Nevertheless, these experiences serve as valuable lessons. Each encounter enhances our understanding and equips us better to work with talents. We remain committed to advising them and implementing global practices to facilitate their continual improvement.

With your experience in both advertising and music, how do you navigate the intersection of creativity and business in the entertainment industry?

In merging the worlds of advertising and music, navigating the interplay of creativity and business in the entertainment industry is akin to orchestrating a finely tuned symphony. It involves harmonising the distinct melodies of creative expression and financial pragmatism.

From the advertising realm, I’ve honed the art of crafting compelling narratives and visuals that not only capture a brand’s essence but also engage audiences effectively. Meanwhile, my experiences in the music industry underscore the need for a strategic approach, considering budgets, market dynamics, and the unpredictable nature of the field.

The challenge lies in seamlessly aligning creative vision with business objectives. It’s about creating campaigns and music projects that not only showcase artistic brilliance but also resonate commercially. This requires constant collaboration with artists, marketers, and industry stakeholders for a cohesive and effective strategy.

My approach at this intersection revolves around creating a synergy where artistic endeavours thrive creatively and contribute to the bottom line. It’s a dynamic process that demands adaptability and a keen awareness of the ever-evolving entertainment landscape, aiming to produce impactful projects resonating on both creative and commercial wavelengths.

As a co-founder of Africa Creative Market, what impact do you hope to make in terms of training, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities for local creators in Nigeria and beyond?

In my role as a co-founder of Africa Creative Market, our mission revolves around making a substantial impact in terms of training, mentorship, and collaborative efforts for local creators in Nigeria and beyond. We envision a dynamic and flourishing ecosystem where creators have the opportunity to enhance their skills, receive valuable mentorship, and engage in collaborative initiatives.

Training is a cornerstone of our approach, aiming to provide creators with the tools, knowledge, and insights necessary to navigate the intricacies of the creative industry. Through targeted training programs, we seek to equip them with the expertise needed to not only hone their craft but also to adapt to the evolving landscape of the creative sector.

Mentorship is another crucial aspect of our initiative. We believe in the power of guidance and shared experiences. By connecting seasoned mentors with emerging talents, we aim to provide a support system that goes beyond formal education, offering practical advice, industry insights, and a roadmap for personal and professional growth.

Collaboration lies at the heart of our vision. We aspire to create a collaborative environment where creators can synergize their talents, exchange ideas, and work together on innovative projects. This not only enriches the creative process but also opens up new avenues for creators to showcase their work to a broader audience, both locally and globally.

Our ultimate goal is to foster a community that thrives on the principles of learning, mentorship, and collaboration. By doing so, we believe we can contribute significantly to the development of a robust and globally competitive creative industry in Nigeria and beyond, empowering creators to reach new heights of success and recognition.

How do you balance your academic pursuits, such as studying for an MBA, with your professional responsibilities and creative endeavours?

Balancing academic pursuits, including my MBA studies, with professional responsibilities and creative endeavours involves effective time management and prioritisation. Juggling the demands of academia and work requires careful planning to ensure each commitment receives due attention. Additionally, as a co-founder of Africa Creative Market, integrating this initiative into my schedule involves aligning its goals with my academic and professional pursuits, creating a cohesive approach that contributes to both personal and collective growth.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it to enhance the creative industry?

If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability to inspire boundless creativity in others and provide the tools and world class infrastructure necessary to nurture talent to international levels of competence across the length and breadth of Africa. I would use it to fuel innovation, collaboration, and elevate the entire creative industry by fostering a continuous wave of fresh ideas and artistic expression that are commercially viable here and in international markets.

If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only have one album to listen to, which one would it be and why?

If stranded on a deserted island, I would definitely listen to Asa’s self-titled album Asa. It has to be one of the most complete bodies of work by a Nigerian Artiste in history. Wizkid’s Superstar and Wande Coal’s Mushin to Mohits will come close to being my pick as well.

The post Interview with The Co-founder of Africa Creative Market appeared first on Rededit Magazine.

Lagos, Nigeria [November 2023] – The Africa Creative Market (ACM), a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for African creatives, recently concluded its 2023 edition of creative enlightenment. Held at the 21st Century Technologies Limited in the heart of Lekki Phase I, Lagos, ACM 2023 took place from November 2 to 7, 2023. This second edition of the event solidified its position as a vital platform for nurturing and propelling the future of creativity on the African continent.

The curtain was raised on this journey at a private reception on November 2, 2023, hosted by the U.S. Consulate in Nigeria. The gathering was a convergence of industry luminaries and visionaries, setting the stage for a week of inspiration, knowledge sharing, and networking. With unwavering commitment, Dr. Inya Lawal, the visionary Co-founder of Africa Creative Market, demonstrated her dedication to empowering the creative sector and emerging talents seeking their place in the sector. In an interview at the ACM event, she said, “By bringing together artists, designers, and creative entrepreneurs from across the continent, we create a platform for networking, collaboration, and exposure through ACM. This, in turn, helps in fostering innovation, economic development, and job creation within the creative sector in Africa.”

ACM 2023 was a vibrant tapestry of panel discussions, keynote speeches, seminars, master classes, creative sessions, and more. The event kick-off with a focus on the musical sub-segment, featuring an opening speech by Bada Akintunde-Johnson, Co-founder of ACM and Country Manager at Paramount Africa. He underscored the importance of the music industry in Africa and ACM’s role in shaping the future for creatives across the continent.

Will Stevens, Chargé D’Affaires of the U.S. Mission in Nigeria, brought an international perspective to the event, recognizing the global significance of African creativity in music, film, fashion, and the arts. He emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between African creativity and the world stage, demonstrating the U.S.’ commitment to supporting African creatives. During his address, he stated, “Africa has assumed a prominent role in the global entertainment landscape, with Nigeria at its core. The United States wholeheartedly supports creative talent in Africa and is dedicated to offering platforms for their economic growth. That’s why we’ve joined hands with Africa Creative Market.” He brought an international dimension to the occasion by underlining the significance of connecting African creativity with the global arena.

One highlight of ACM 2023 was a keynote session on intellectual property and the protection of creative rights. Ramin Toloui, the Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, highlighted the importance of regulatory frameworks to incentivize innovation and creativity. Herbert Wigwe, Founder of the HOW Foundation and WIGWE University, contributed valuable insights on protecting inventions and creations, emphasizing the role of universities and research institutions in assisting creatives with intellectual property matters.

Intellectual property lawyer Nabila Aguele, a former Special Assistant to the Honorable Minister for Finance, Budget, and National Planning, stressed the importance of intellectual property enforcement for sustainable development in the African creative sector. She urged African countries to prioritize the creation and improvement of a robust intellectual property framework, safeguarding the rights of creators and fostering financial growth within the industry. “We, as African nations, need to make it a top priority to advocate for the development and enhancement of a strong intellectual property framework. This framework should safeguard the rights of creators and drive economic prosperity within our creative industry,” she emphasized.

Furthermore, Yinka Davies curated the Creative Unveil session, a 2-day workshop for aspiring and established music arts, featuring Nollywood veteran Taiwo Ajai-Lycett and Mádé Kuti. Taiwo Ajai-Lycett shared her wisdom, emphasizing the importance of humility in the creative process. Her words resonated with attendees, highlighting that humility is a quality that defines greatness. Attendees delved into ways of unlocking their artistic potential, fostering connections with fellow creatives, and immersing them in a wellspring of endless inspiration.

ACM 2023 also unveiled the magic behind the MTV Base “Inside Life” reality TV show, featuring music stars Eltee Skhillz, Big Rexxie, and Liya, hosted by Ilooise Omonhinmin. This insightful panel session offered a behind-the-scenes look into the lives of African creatives and the challenges they overcome to achieve their dreams in the industry.

The final day of ACM 2023 featured legendary dancer Kafayat Shafau (Kaffy), who led a practical workshop on the art of commercial choreography and Afro-dance expression. She emphasized how creatives in the dance space can upscale their talents while embracing the artistry of movement. A panel discussion, featuring Iyabo Ojo, Daniel Grey-Leonge (Drey Beatz), Bunmi Olunloyo, and Wale Rubber, addressed key issues in the creative dance industry, including the impact of social media, managing societal expectations, and creating value as a creative.

Other distinguished speakers and panelists at ACM 2023 included Obi Asika, Yvonne Victor-Olomu, Kola Oshalusi, Emmanuel Tarfa, Chigul, Sam Dede, Malikat Rufai, Ijeoma Onah, Connie Aluoch, Dedren Snead, Busola Komolafe, Davidson Oturu, Similoluwa Oyelude, Professor Bankole Sodipo, Ibukunoluwa M. Adebara, Temilola Muyiwa-Ajayi, Fifehan Osikanlu, Faith History, Gbolade Okeowo, Nicole Asinugo, Agnes Soyode-Johnson, Beverly Naya, Ayomide Dokunmu, Adeniji Adedeji, Susan Younis, and a host of other experts and thought leaders.

Africa Creative Market 2023 was more than an event; it was a mind-shift experience for attendees. It offered a unique opportunity to learn directly from industry professionals and experts, providing a blueprint for establishing sustainable business models and igniting creativity across the continent. ACM 2023 has set a new standard for inspiring, nurturing, and empowering Africa’s creative talents, and the impact will be felt for years to come. The creative flame that was ignited at ACM 2023 will continue to burn bright, lighting the way for the next generation of African creatives.

For more information about Africa Creative Market and future events, please visit www.africacreativemarketglobal.com.

The post Bridging the Gap, Nurturing the Future: Africa Creative Market Inspires Creativity in Africa appeared first on Rededit Magazine.