By Rita Okoye

The AYKO Symposium 2024, held on November 14, 2024, at the Metropolitan Club in Lagos, brought together visionaries from Nigeria and beyond to explore the power of creativity in driving social and economic transformation. Under the theme “Creative Minds. Business Solutions,” the event highlighted how Nigeria’s creative sector can address national development challenges through innovative thinking. 

Notable speakers included: Omoyemi Akerele, Founder of Lagos Fashion Week, Emma Collings, Head of Marketing at a UK FTSE100 Company, Ayoola Gbolahan, Acclaimed Nigerian Artist, Kola Oshalusi, CEO of Insigna Media, Vanessa Azar, Founder of MVSEATELIER and Regional Area Manager, Fenty Beauty Sub-Sahara

The symposium, engaging and thought-provoking, offered workshops on leadership, digital marketing, technology and financial literacy, equipping participants with practical tools to grow their businesses. Discussions also centred on collaboration between creatives and businesses to unlock investment and job opportunities. 

Omoyemi Akerele, in her keynote, described creativity as a catalyst for progress. “The creative industry is one of Africa’s strongest assets. By aligning creativity with measurable business strategies, we can achieve sustainable growth and global influence,” she stated. 

More than a gathering, the event set the stage for impactful change. Participants gained practical takeaways and formed key relationships to drive success and growth in their ventures.  Cofounders Ayoola Bakare and Koya Onagoruwa emphasised, “Our goal is to spark a movement where creativity becomes a primary solution to economic challenges in Nigeria and across Africa.” 

AYKO’s commitment extends beyond the symposium, with plans to grow the agency internationally over the next 12 months with the continued focus of empowering talented creatives.