Canon Young People Programme in Nigeria.Photo by Canon
Thirteen young cochlear implant users explore storytelling and photography as tools for confidence, creativity, and inclusion
Canon’s Young People Programme (CYPP) has partnered with MED-EL, a global leader in hearing implant systems, to extend its inclusive youth empowerment initiative to Nigeria.
The programme is equipping 13 young cochlear implant users, aged between 9 and 22, with creative storytelling and photography skills designed to foster confidence, inclusion, and lifelong opportunities, underscoring the role of philanthropy in driving social impact through education and innovation.
The expansion follows the success of the initiative’s first run in Kenya, with Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) now introducing the programme to Lagos.
This collaboration reflects Canon’s commitment to creating inclusive pathways for underrepresented youth across Africa, while reinforcing MED-EL’s holistic approach to hearing rehabilitation and social reintegration.
Empowerment Through Photography
The participating youth, identified by MED-EL for their functional speech and language skills following cochlear implant surgery and therapy, were introduced to photography as a tool for self-expression.
Canon certified trainers led the workshops, blending technical learning with creativity.
The sessions culminated in real-world practice: capturing vibrant images within the community through the lens of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and exploring ‘sound’ as a theme at the Lekki Conservation Park.
“It’s about creating inclusive platforms where they can build confidence, express their identity, and feel part of a wider community,” said Sneha Lata, Senior Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathologist at MED-EL.
Building Inclusive Futures
The Canon Young People Programme, rooted in Canon’s Kyosei philosophy “living and working together for the common good” equips young people with tools to address sustainability issues that matter to them.
By integrating the SDGs into creative learning, CYPP encourages youth to develop critical thinking, amplify their voices, and position themselves as changemakers in their communities.
For Canon, the programme is about more than photography.
It represents a broader investment in inclusive education, practical skills, and career pathways that open doors to industries where youth voices have been underrepresented.
“At Canon, we believe that true innovation is meaningful only when it creates opportunities for all,” said Tushar Vashnavi, Director of Strategic Planning at Canon Central and North Africa.
“Expanding the Canon Young People Programme to Nigeria in collaboration with MED-EL reflects our deep commitment to empowering underrepresented youth through the transformative power of visual storytelling. By equipping these young individuals with creative skills and confidence.”
For MED-EL, the partnership bridges medical and creative rehabilitation. Beyond providing hearing implant systems, the company sees inclusion and self-expression as vital to the full reintegration of young users into society.
Looking Ahead
Canon and MED-EL have signaled their long-term commitment to replicating this model across Africa, with strong interest already emerging from the education and advocacy sectors.
“We are not just teaching photography, we are enabling them to find their voice, shape their own narratives, and unlock future possibilities. This initiative is a testament to Canon’s dedication to building an inclusive, sustainable future where every young person has the chance to thrive,” added.
As the programme grows, its blend of creative learning, social inclusion, and skills development is poised to offer young people across the continent new ways of overcoming barriers and shaping their futures.
