Participants from the Canon Miraisha Programme and Debra’s Palace in Nigeria.PHOTO ; Canon Central and North Africa
Nigeria nonprofit Debra’s Palace Initiative has partnered with Canon Central & North Africa (CCNA) to host the second edition of the Creative Summer School in Lagos, held from 8 to 20 September 2025.
Part of Canon’s award-winning Miraisha Programme, the Summer School equips young men aged 18 to 25 with hands-on technical training, mentorship, and essential life skills, preparing them to thrive in Africa’s growing creative industries.
Since its inception, Miraisha has empowered over 7,000 young creatives across 11 African countries, aiming to reach 10,000 by 2030.
The programme aligns with both organisations’ visions of fostering creativity, leadership, and social impact among Africa’s youth.
Practical Skills and Mentorship
Participants explored a wide array of creative and professional skills, including photography, cinematography, sound editing, financial literacy, entrepreneurship in the arts, etiquette, graphic design, and digital content creation.
Canon delivered a three-day basic photography course combining classroom lessons with outdoor shoots and project-based assignments.
Two outstanding students were each awarded a Canon Selphy CP1000 printer, recognising their creativity and dedication.
The daily workshops hosted 25 core participants for immersive training, while 50–100 others attended the opening and closing ceremonies.
Somesh Adukia, Managing Director, Canon Central and North Africa, said:
“Through the Miraisha Programme, Canon is deeply committed to investing in Africa’s youth by equipping them with the skills, confidence, and support needed to succeed in today’s creative industries. Our collaboration with Debra’s Palace Initiative reflects our belief that creativity is not only a pathway to employment but also a driver of positive social change.”
Mentorship was provided by industry leaders, including Femi Odugbemi, Bayo Omoboriowo, Daniel Etim Effiong, Osarume Akenzua, Tayo Adetunji, Precious Eniayekan, Uncle Sele, and David Adetola, who offered guidance, career insights, and personal experiences, helping participants navigate potential pathways in the creative sector.
“We believe every boy deserves the opportunity to develop his talent and grow into a man of vision, impact, and integrity. The Creative Summer School provides a safe and inspiring space where participants build confidence and skills to pursue their dreams, ”Damilola Chinedu, Founder, Debra’s Palace Initiative, added.
Building Sustainable Impact
Canon’s Miraisha Programme reflects the company’s philosophy of Kyosei, living and working together for the common good.
It has collaborated with organisations such as the Kings & Queens Art Academy in Nigeria, Maono Africa in Kenya, and the Lens on Life Project in Cameroon, ensuring long-term, sustainable impact.
By combining technical training with mentorship and community engagement, Miraisha nurtures young creatives to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and storytellers.
Similarly, Debra’s Palace Initiative, the Nigerian nonprofit co-hosting the programme, has engaged over 3,500 boys through initiatives such as the Boy Child Conversation Conference (BCC), Mentorship School Tours, and JAMB Scholarship Programmes.
The organisation focuses on providing safe spaces for skill development, personal growth, and confidence-building, empowering boys to become responsible, capable, and socially conscious young men.
Preparing Africa’s Next Generation
The second Creative Summer School underscores the shared commitment of Canon Central & North Africa and Debra’s Palace Initiative to nurturing Africa’s next generation of creatives, storytellers, and changemakers.
By blending hands-on skills, mentorship, and life lessons, the programme helps participants navigate career opportunities, develop self-confidence, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Through initiatives like this, both organisations demonstrate that investing in youth creativity and leadership is crucial for Africa’s economic and social development.
The programme continues to build opportunities not only for professional growth but also for fostering innovation, civic engagement, and social impact among Africa’s young creatives.
