Thirty exceptional creative artistes with outstanding creativity and dedication are set to benefit from a N150 million grant from a Lens For Good (LFG) Movement initiative, it emerged on Saturday.
The initiative, led by Nosa Asemota, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Creative Communications, will empower recipients to bring their creative projects to life across photography, film, and other storytelling mediums.
Asemota, who also announced the launch of the LFG Mentorship Mobile Web App set for October 1st, 2024, emphasized that the grant is just one of many ways Lens For Good is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of creatives, providing them with the tools and resources needed for success.
Described as a bold step toward shaping the future of storytelling in Nigeria, the innovative platform aims to train and empower 500,000 Nigerian creatives and storytellers while providing unprecedented access to mentorship and resources from some of the nation’s most prominent creative leaders.
The Lens For Good Mobile Web App is set to become Nigeria’s largest creative mentorship initiative, launching with a target of training 50,000 Nigerian creatives and storytellers in its first year.
“The participants will gain access to seasoned mentors, cutting-edge educational resources, and exclusive networking opportunities with Nigeria’s top creative professionals.
“By the program’s end, they will be equipped with the skills and tools to elevate their craft and share authentic, impactful Nigerian stories that resonate on a global stage,” he added.
Expressing optimism, he noted that the LFG grant and the new Mobile Web App are poised to make a significant national impact, building on the successes of the Lens For Good Storyteller’s Conference held on August 28, 2024, in Lagos.
The conference brought together over 160,000 of Nigeria’s brightest creative minds, both virtually and physically, for a day of insightful discussions, collaborative networking, and talks on the vital role of empowering creatives and storytellers in nation-building and shaping positive narratives.
Some of the attendees, including TY Bello, Mayor Otu, Tolani Alli, Ademola Olaniran, Henry Orji (Big H), Timmy Davies, Salem King, and many more industry leaders lent their voices to inspire Nigerian storytellers to use their creativity to foster a positive national identity as week as reinforce the importance of empowering storytellers, not just as creatives, but as key contributors to nation-building and societal change.
Explaining the motive behind the initiatives, Asemota, said, “Our mission is clear: We aim to empower Nigerian creatives, equipping them with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities they need to tell powerful, authentic Nigerian stories that will resonate around the world.
“At the Storyteller’s Conference, we rallied Nigerian storytellers from diverse sectors in the creative industry to heed the clarion call of empowering creatives and reshaping our nation’s narrative.
“Now, with the launch of the Lens For Good mentorship mobile web app, we’re taking the next step in that mission—and this is only the beginning.
“The Lens For Good web app will serve as a dynamic hub where participants can connect with mentors and access exclusive masterclass videos.
“In addition to the masterclass sessions, participants will engage with structured learning modules that provide in-depth training and actionable insights.
“The app will also foster a collaborative environment, allowing users to hone their craft, network with peers, and build a thriving creative community.”
