Handle It Africa recently gathered more than 60 female creators from diverse sectors, including film, media, design, tech, and digital storytelling, for its She Creates event.
Organized in partnership with the British Council, the event, held at the British Council Lagos, provided a vibrant platform for learning, networking, and empowerment.
A standout moment of the evening was the surprise business grant competition, where five participants were randomly selected to pitch their ideas on scaling their creative ventures.
With no prior notice, each had two minutes to present their business concepts, after which fellow attendees voted on the most compelling pitch.
Temi-Ami Williams, a gifted filmmaker and cancer survivor, won the contest and received a $1,000 grant from Donna McGowan, Country Director of the British Council Nigeria.
The event also featured an exclusive screening of Williams’ short film, which highlights the resilience of cancer survivors through the power of storytelling.
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“Seeing the talent and passion in this space reinforces the importance of platforms like She Creates,” McGowan remarked. “The creative industry thrives when women are given the resources to turn their visions into reality.”
A panel discussion moderated by strategic cultural and creative consultant Tope Sanni explored key themes, including financing, breaking barriers, and leveraging networks and collaborations.
Panelists included Adetutu Laditan, Creative Director at Wolf Studios and former YouTube Marketing Manager; Nora Awolowo, an award-winning movie producer and cinematographer; Ife’s Kitchen, a leading food content creator; and Yolanda Okereke, a top costumier in Nollywood.
They shared practical insights on funding strategies, navigating industry stereotypes, and building successful partnerships.
Brenda Fashugba, Head of Arts at the British Council Nigeria, acknowledged the creative industry’s progress while emphasizing the ongoing challenges women face in accessing critical resources.
She reaffirmed the British Council’s commitment to promoting equity and creating opportunities for women across all regions.
For Olufemi Oguntamu, Founder of Handle It Africa, the event’s impact transcends the day’s activities.
“African women in the creative space are reshaping global narratives. This event proves that with the right platform, their voices, businesses, and stories can drive meaningful change.”
As Africa’s creative industry continues to grow, events like She Creates remain essential in ensuring that women are not just participants but also key decision-makers and industry leaders.
The success of the initiative underscores the need for sustained efforts in funding, mentorship, and visibility to build a more inclusive and thriving creative economy.