Why Black At’s ‘The Bigger Picture: This is Lagos’ Event is a Game-Changer for African Creatives

Lagos, Nigeria – November 2024 – Black At, a global initiative focused on uplifting Black and African creators, is gearing up to host The Bigger Picture: This is Lagos, a two-day event on November 20-21, set to showcase and support the incredible potential of Africa’s creative economy. The event, to be held at Alliance Française Lagos, will gather leaders from advertising, media, creative arts, and entertainment industries to strategize on Africa’s evolving role in the global creative market.

At the heart of this event is a game-changing announcement: the pre-seed launch of Blkat.io, a digital platform aimed at connecting African creators with critical resources such as funding, mentorship, and training. This platform represents a cornerstone in Black At’s mission to train one million Nigerian creatives and facilitate financial and educational support for ten million Black creatives globally.

A Vision to Empower African Creativity

Black At’s efforts to drive African talent forward come at a time when the creative industries are becoming major economic players across the continent. This event signals a new phase of growth, focusing on breaking down barriers to financial resources and expanding professional networks, particularly for young and emerging creators.

Co-founder Peter Ukhurebor expressed his commitment to scaling up opportunities for Black creatives: “Our goal is to make African creativity accessible to the world, with Nigeria as our launchpad. Through Blkat.io, we want to provide sustainable pathways to funding, mentorship, and global partnerships,” Ukhurebor said.

A major highlight of the event will be the African Creative Fund—an initiative providing grants, loans, and other financial support for creatives looking to expand their reach. This fund not only helps artists scale their businesses but also gives investors a structured opportunity to tap into Africa’s growing creative economy.

Day 1: Conversations to Build a Thriving Creative Economy

The first day will include panel discussions and fireside chats led by top executives in advertising, media, music, film, and finance. Sessions will cover topics on fostering long-term brand loyalty, investing in creativity, and transforming African businesses into globally recognized brands. 

One of the central conversations will focus on moving beyond products to build brands that serve human needs—a strategy increasingly vital in capturing consumer trust and loyalty. This day of discussions offers a platform for business leaders and creatives alike to exchange ideas on what it takes to build a resilient creative sector in Nigeria.

Day 2: Partnering for Global Reach and Sustainable Growth

The second day is set aside for a more exclusive gathering of seasoned professionals across music, film, fashion, and art, alongside the Bank of Industry and Martell, who are supporting the event. These sessions will dive deep into opportunities for creative partnerships that allow African talent to scale globally.

Mrs. Uche Cynthia Nwuka, General Manager at the Bank of Industry, emphasized the significance of such collaborations: “Nigeria’s creative industries are becoming a powerful force for economic development. We’re here to support those who are willing to innovate and drive this sector forward,” Nwuka stated.

The Bigger Picture for Africa’s Creative Future

Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, spoke on the strategic importance of Africa’s creative sector: “Our creative industries are a huge part of Africa’s soft power on the world stage, from Nollywood to Afrobeats. Structured support like this can turn that influence into long-term economic growth.”

Supported by organizations such as the Bank of Industry, Martell, the National Council for Arts and Culture, Omniverse, and Marketing Edge, Black At’s The Bigger Picture: This is Lagos highlights Nigeria’s emerging role as a beacon for African creativity. The initiative isn’t just about showcasing talent—it’s about shaping an economic future where African creativity can thrive globally.