Creative
Canon Celebrates the Successful Conclusion of “Women Who Empower” Programme in Nigeria
Canon concludes the ‘Women Who Empower’ initiative with an exclusive media event at Lagos, Nigeria on July 24; 15 participants from WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers) showcase their creativity in an exhibition.
Canon, a global leader in imaging solutions, successfully concluded “Women Who Empower,” an initiative in collaboration with WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers). A month-long program, which aimed to empower women in the print and imaging sectors, culminated in an event held on July 24th at Radisson Blu Ikeja, Lagos was attended by participants, and guests including media, industry leaders and senior executives from Canon and WISCAR.
The program consisted of three modules: printing, photography, and content creation, each designed to equip the 15 participants with valuable skills and knowledge. The content creation curriculum was led by Canon Ambassador, Nigerian cinematographer & director, Daniel Ehimen. The photography curriculum and the printing module was led by Emmanuel Oyeleke, Nigerian Lifestyle photographer, and a Canon ambassador.
As demonstrated by Canon’s various diversity and inclusivity programs, this initiative also aligns with its corporate philosophy ‘Kyosei,’ which means living and working together for the common good.
Mrs. Amina Oyagbola, Founder & Chairperson WISCAR said, “Our partnership with Canon has been a resounding success, empowering women in the print and imaging industries. This collaboration serves as a powerful blueprint for partnerships that break down barriers, drive meaningful change, and pave the way for a more inclusive future in the print and imaging industries. At WISCAR, we believe in the transformative power of empowering women and girls, and this partnership aligns perfectly with our values of inspiring, educating, and mentoring women to reach their full potential. By working together, we have made a tangible impact on the lives of women in Nigeria, and we look forward to continuing this important work, creating a ripple effect of positive change that resonates throughout the industry and beyond.”
Somesh Adukia, Managing Director- Canon Central & North Africa, added, “Canon is guided by an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. These core values are not just aspirations, but the very foundation upon which we build a thriving and innovative future. We believe in creating an environment where everyone can thrive, and collaborating with partners like WISCAR reinforces this commitment. Together, we are shaping a more inclusive and groundbreaking future in the imaging industry.”
The event culminated in a captivating portfolio exhibition, where participants brought their remarkable achievements and newfound skills to life. The exhibition captivated audiences with its blend of evocative photographs, rich in storytelling and dynamic video content, each a vibrant reflection of the participants’ unique talents and passions.
Among the many talented individuals, two standout participants received special recognition for their exceptional dedication, creativity, and progress. Joy Ngwolo and Obianuju Lilian Ikegbune were honored for their outstanding contributions to the program.
Joy Ngwolo a PR professional and photographer, reflecting on her journey, shared: “Prior to ‘Women Who Empower’ photography classes, my camera skills were limited by a basic understanding. The program’s comprehensive training has been transformative, equipping me with a solid grasp of photographic techniques and the science behind them. The resulting improvement in my image quality is remarkable. I highly recommend these classes to anyone seeking to elevate their photography to the next level. I’m incredibly grateful to Canon & WISCAR for this invaluable experience.”
Obianuju Lilian Ikegbune expressed her gratitude, stating, As a Public Relations and Marketing Communications Strategist, I was drawn to the Canon x Wiscar Women Who Empower Program for its focus on empowering women in the thriving creative industry. I gained valuable knowledge on storytelling techniques like the ‘rule of thirds,’ camera handling fundamentals, and key considerations for brand storytelling, which will undoubtedly set me apart in the professional arena. I am incredibly grateful to Canon and WISCAR for offering this program, the chance to learn from industry leaders like Emmanuel and Ehimen, and the opportunity to connect with a network of fellow creatives.”
Led by renowned Nigerian cinematographer, director, and Canon Ambassador Daniel Ehimen, spearheaded an intensive content creation course, equipping participants with essential videography skills. The course delved into the fundamentals of videography, camera mastery, the art of storytelling, and provided invaluable hands-on experience with personalized feedback.
Renowned Nigerian lifestyle photographer and Canon Ambassador Emmanuel Oyeleke led a captivating photography course, focusing on the core principles of photography with a storytelling emphasis. Participants actively engaged in numerous sessions and practical exercises, gaining a thorough understanding of photography fundamentals, and solidifying their behind-the-lens capabilities. Expanding participants’ knowledge base further, Emmanuel also led a comprehensive printing workshop. This session explored various printing solutions for photography portfolios and delved into the intricacies of photo studio setups, ensuring participants are well-equipped for all aspects of their photographic journey.
The ‘Women Who Empower’ campaign marked a significant milestone in empowering women in the printing and imaging sectors. As Canon continues to champion diversity and inclusion, initiatives like ‘Women Who Empower’ demonstrate the power of partnerships in driving positive change. With plans for future collaborations and programs, Canon remains committed to its mission of empowering individuals and communities through innovation and creativity.
Canon which has more than 63% of women occupying leadership roles in the Middle East and Africa HQ, has been championing empowerment initiatives for many years as demonstrated by its various diversity and inclusivity programs
Entertainment
The 13th AFRIFF: A Celebration of African Cinema’s Cultural Wealth and Global Prosperity
The highly anticipated 13th Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) kicked off on November 3, 2024, in Lagos with a dazzling opening night at the Royal Box by Cube 65, Victoria Island.
Under this year’s dynamic theme, Indigenous to Global, AFRIFF 2024 Showcased Africa’s rich cultural heritage while positioning its creatives at the forefront of Global cinematic innovation.The festival, which celebrates the power of storytelling, brought together an impressive Array of government dignitaries, cinema icons, international guests, and industry leaders.
Guests were treated to a memorable evening of glitz and glamour, including a red carpet And power photo session with renowned photographer Kelechi Amadi Obi inside the Mikano showroom. The night also honoured the late Herbert Wigwe, a beloved patron of
The festival, with the inaugural AFRIFF Trailblazer Award, presented by Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, and Chairman of
Arise Television, Nduka Obaigbena to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and AFREXIM Bank President Benedict Oramah for their exceptional contributions to the arts And creative industries.
The festivities continued with a screening of Michael W. Ndiomu’s highly anticipated film Headless, which set the tone for a week of bold, thought-provoking African cinema Exploring local and global narratives.
A Week of Visionary Conversations and Global Networking
AFRIFF 2024 was a celebration of African filmmaking and a vibrant hub for cross-industry Collaboration and exchange.
The festival’s opening day set the stage for stimulating Discussions, starting with ‘Herbert Day’, a tribute to the late Herbert Wigwe’s lifelong Commitment to the arts.
The “Financing the Future: Investing in Film for Global Prosperity” panel brought together Leaders from top financial institutions, including PAC Capital, AFREXIM Bank, Chapel Hill Denham and the Bank of Industry, who engaged in a robust discussion about the growing Opportunities and challenges of financing African film on the global stage.
A highlight of the week was a captivating fireside chat with actor John Boyega, moderated By Fela Oke.
The British-born Nigerian star shared his inspiring journey from London’s film School to his iconic role in Star Wars. His candid conversation captivated the audience, Offering valuable insights into the evolving relationship between African heritage and International cinema.
AFRIFF’s networking events further cemented the festival’s role as a vital bridge between African creatives and the global industry. The U.S. Consul General kicked off the festivities
With their annual cocktail reception at the official residence, offering an evening of vibrant Conversation and cross-cultural exchange. Meanwhile, the French Consulate hosted a chicwelcome party at Kaly Restaurant, where guests mingled over delicious food and Celebrated the power of international collaboration.
A standout moment was when Chioma Ude, the founder of AFRIFF, hosted an exclusive Gathering at Mr. Panther Lagos for 40 influential women making waves in the cultural and Entertainment sectors. The intimate dinner highlighted the vital contributions of women Shaping Africa’s creative industries, offering a platform for inspiration and connection.
Adding a touch of culinary and artistic flair, Chef Eros of IleEros treated John Boyega and a Select group of friends to an eclectic dinner that celebrated the intersection of food, Fashion, and performance. The evening was a true celebration of African culture in all its Forms.
To top it all off, Skepta was warmly welcomed by the French Embassy at an exclusive Event, rounding off an unforgettable week of global industry connections and cultural Celebration.
African Storytelling Shines on the Global Stage
Throughout the week, AFRIFF 2024 showcased the versatility and richness of African Storytelling in film, television, and animation. Disney’s insightful panel, “Animating the Future: Iwaju and the Evolution of African Storytelling,” introduced audiences to Iwaju, an African-inspired animated series set to redefine how the world sees African narratives inAnimation.
On Television Day, DSTV presented the panel “Local Production for Global Appeal,” diving Deep into how African television content is carving out a distinct identity with international
Audiences. The day also marked the premiere of two highly anticipated films:
Basketmouth’s debut feature, A Ghetto Love Story, and Kunle Afolayan’s Recall, both of Which showcase the depth and diversity of contemporary African filmmaking.
An Electric Conclusion
The festival wrapped up with a powerful panel, “Fashion in African Cinema: Defining an African Identity,” moderated by Latasha Ngwube featuring Mai Atafo, Yolanda Okereke, Daniel Obasi, Ugo Mozie and Bolaji Animashaun.
The panel explored the vital role of Fashion in expressing and defining African identity in the cinematic world.
There were a series of emotional, thought-provoking moments, including the premiere of Skepta’s short film Tribal Mark, which explores African diaspora experiences, and the Closing screening of Obi Emelonye’s Out of Breath, a compelling drama addressing Pressing societal issues.
Looking Ahead: AFRIFF 2024 Sets the Tone for the Future of African Cinema
As AFRIFF 2024 draws to a close, one thing is clear: African cinema is on the rise and Poised for global recognition. This year’s festival celebrated the power of African creativity And storytelling, highlighting the incredible work of filmmakers, actors, and industry leaders who set new standards of excellence. AFRIFF is solidifying its role as a driving force for African cinema internationally with its continued focus on cultural exchange, industry innovation, and global collaboration.
As the world continues to turn its eyes toward Africa, AFRIFF 2024 has set the stage for a future where African voices lead the charge in global film and media.
Entertainment
Pernod Ricard Nigeria & Maison Martell Unveil the Majestic Martell Tower in Lagos, Redefining Luxury Experiences
Maison Martell, a subsidiary of Pernod Ricard, proudly announces the launch of the Martell Tower, an iconic architectural landmark in Lagos. This audacious creation embodies Martell’s 300-year legacy, blending French elegance with Nigerian vibrancy.
The message was mind-sparking: ” Dear Swift One, we are thrilled to invite you to be among the first to soar to new Heights at the Martell Tower.” This immersive journey explores cognac craftsmanship across four unique floors.
The iconic tower’s journey begins at L’Atelier – Art of Cognac and Boutique, offering Martell’s extensive cognac range, exclusive merchandise and personalized bottles. Guests progress to L’Atelier – Taste and Tour for a dedicated tasting experience, then L’Atelier – Mixology to craft signature cocktails guided by certified mixologists. La Suite 1715 showcases Martell’s rich legacy, while L’Horizon is perfect for exclusive gatherings. Each level of the Tower, taking guests deeper into the world of Martell.
“From mouthwatering bites to premium cocktails, every detail made for a wonderfully convivial night. Speaking at the event, Managing Director, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Mr Michael Ehindero, said that ‘This groundbreaking tower embodies Martell’s unwavering commitment to innovation and African elegance. He added that the Martell Tower is pioneering design and premium experience and is the first of its kind in Africa.
The company’s Marketing Director, Evane Chenuet, expressed that: “The Martell Tower Experience embodies our daring spirit and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. It’s more than a building; it’s a symbol of our legacy and our future.”
The Tower will host a series of exclusive events, including fashion exhibitions, exclusive auctions, and musical performances in the coming months.
Rite Foods Limited, a market leader in the food and beverage industry, and Popbeach Club have unveiled the 2024 edition of ‘Riteonthebeach’ Festival with a Symposium for students of tertiary institutions in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Law Faculties to create awareness on the values inherent in ecological preservation. The event was held in Lagos, on Monday, 11th November 2024.
The Festival which is in its fourth year and the beginning of the ‘Riteonthebeach’ Residency programme, is intended to unlock the value in plastic, the environment, and human development using data collected through scientific methods, and to provide a realistic valuation for the importance of saving the Lagos Western Peninsula and its adjacent mangrove forests.
This partnership between Rite Foods and Popbeach Club, a Lagos Eco-Resort, is conceived to combat ocean plastic pollution, improve literacy, and create employment opportunities by facilitating the exchange of waste plastic for recycling and education scholarships for children in shoreline communities.
In his remark, the Head, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at Rite Foods Limited, Mr. Ekuma Eze who was represented by Dennis Aideloje, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Manager, Rite Foods Limited, said, “Riteonthebeach is part of the company’s commitment to proffering sustainable solutions to the plastic menace and equipping young Nigerians with the insights and skills needed to address the challenges of climate change.”
“Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles that litter the beaches and waterways require immediate action and through the ‘Riteonthebeach’ Symposium, Rite Foods hopes to ignite a sense of purpose that drives each participant to take responsibility for eliminating plastics on the coastline”, he added.
Eze reiterated that, “If plastics continue to choke the nation’s waterways and shorelines, the capacity to absorb carbon and support biodiversity will be drastically reduced, hence the need to keep them free from plastics which can be recycled into other useful products.”
Akin Disu, the Founder of Popbeachclub averred that the new project will remove the plastics, process and recycle onsite to plastic pellets, and a whole lot more using blockchain technology for transparency. He said by using technology and data, ‘Rite On The Beach’ can create tools to determine a realistic valuation for the region and provide the required developmental capital to deliver sustainable growth to the region.
“Our aim is to provide a template for ecological preservation and sustainable development of rural communities through collaboration and community engagement”, he stated.
According to Disu, while eco-tourism is a cornerstone of ‘Riteonthebeach’ mission, the shift towards carbon accountability is of crucial importance, in line with Lagos State’s significant step to carbon neutrality, a global requirement for responsible development.
He said over the past three years, the ecological conservation project has removed approximately 30 tons of plastic bottles and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for recycling, and has created jobs, scholarships, and training for over 1,000 youths in coastal communities.
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