Latest news with #SomeshAdukia
Zawya
23-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Canon Central and North Africa Unveil Season 2 of 'Women Who Empower' with Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) in Nigeria
Canon and WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers) renew their commitment to focus on accelerating action and building community for women in imaging and print industries. Second season of 'Women Who Empower' aligns with the International Women's Day 2025 theme of "Accelerate Action". Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) ( a leader in imaging solutions has announced the launch of Season 2 of its successful 'Women Who Empower' campaign, in partnership with Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) in Nigeria. Now in its second year, the programme aims to equip women in photography, videography, and printing with essential skills and mentorship. Rooted in Canon's philosophy 'Kyosei' —living and working together for the common good—this initiative reinforces Canon's commitment to diversity, education, talent development, and aligns with the International Women's Day 2025 theme of "Accelerate Action'. The launch ceremony was held at Hive by Zen — a newly opened studio by Canon ambassador Emmanuel Oyeleke — and was attended by 20 ladies who will be part of the programme in Season 2, alongside representatives from both organizations. Somesh Adukia, Managing Director, Canon Central and North Africa, said, "At Canon, we believe in the power of creativity to drive change. Through the 'Women Who Empower' initiative, we are not just equipping women with technical skills but also building confidence and industry connections that will help them advance their careers. Our partnership with WISCAR reflects our steadfast commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the long-term growth of Nigeria's creative industry." Season 2 will offer training across three specialized modules: Photography&Print Module: Led by Canon Ambassador Emmanuel Oyeleke, participants will learn photography fundamentals, visual storytelling techniques, and practical shooting skills. They will also gain insights into printing business trends, digital printing applications, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the printing industry. Content Creation Module: Conducted by Canon Ambassador Daniel Ehimen, this module will cover the essentials of visual and video content creation, editing techniques, and content monetization. The program, running from April 22nd to June 5th, 2025, includes two theory and two practical sessions for each module, followed by portfolio development opportunities. As part of the practical training, this season will also feature trainer-led photo walk and video walk — a new addition designed to enhance hands-on learning. The initiative will culminate in a closing ceremony where participants will showcase their work and receive recognition for their achievements. Transforming Nigeria's Creative Future This collaboration with WISCAR highlights the broader impact on Nigeria's creative industry. By forming partnerships and providing networking opportunities, Canon demonstrates its long-term commitment to nurturing talent and promoting diversity within the sector. "Our partnership with Canon has been a resounding success, empowering women in the print and imaging industries," said Amina Oyagbola, Founder and Chairperson of WISCAR. "This collaboration serves as an outstanding example of collaborations that break down barriers, drive meaningful change, and pave the way for more women to advance in careers in the print and imaging industries.' The 'Women Who Empower' initiative reflects Canon's dedication to fostering talent, innovation, and diversity in the creative sector. Through strategic partnerships, mentorship, and skills development, Canon continues to invest in the future of the creative industry, providing individuals with opportunities and the resources they need to thrive. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA). Media enquiries, please contact: Canon Central and North Africa Mai Youssef e. APO Group - PR Agency Rania ElRafie e. About Canon Central and North Africa: Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) ( is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon's business within the Africa region - by strengthening Canon's in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon's commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market. Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa's rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa. Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei ( – 'living and working together for the common good'. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better. For more information: ABOUT WISCAR: WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers) is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and developing professional women across Nigeria. Founded with the mission to inspire and enable women to achieve their full potential, WISCAR provides a comprehensive array of programs and initiatives designed to support women's professional growth and leadership development. Through mentorship, training, and advocacy, WISCAR equips women with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to excel in their careers and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Nigeria. WISCAR's mentorship programs pair emerging female professionals with experienced mentors, offering guidance, support, and valuable industry insights. Their leadership training workshops and seminars cover a wide range of topics, from strategic career planning to personal branding and effective communication. By fostering a community of successful and supportive women, WISCAR not only enhances individual career trajectories but also drives broader societal change toward gender equality and economic inclusion. Through partnerships with corporations, government agencies, and other non-profits, WISCAR advocates for policies and practices that promote gender diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The organisation is committed to creating an enabling environment where women can thrive and lead, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and competitive economy. WISCAR's vision is to see women at all levels of leadership and influence making impactful decisions that shape the future of Nigeria.
Zawya
13-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Canon Miraisha Programme Expands Collaboration With Kings & Queens Art Academy in Nigeria to Empower Youth in Bariga and Makoko
The collaboration with Kings and Queens Art Academy in Bariga leverages local expertise to deliver hands-on photography workshops, fostering creative skills, empowering young people, and creating career opportunities in photography and filmmaking. This Canon Miraisha partnership in 2025 will see increased numbers of young adults trained in photography skills, with 120 participants from two communities enrolled in the upcoming workshops. Canon Central and North Africa ( the leading printing and imaging solutions provider, is pleased to announce the expansion of its inspiring collaboration with Kings and Queens Art Academy in Lagos, Nigeria, aimed at nurturing young talent. Building on the outstanding achievements of the previous year, in which 100 aspiring young students from Bariga in Lagos received training in photography and filmmaking, this year will see the initiative, under Canon's Miraisha Programme, extend to Makoko community, one of the largest slum communities in Africa. Embodying Canon's corporate philosophy, 'Kyosei', which means living and working together for the common good, 120 young individuals from both communities will have the opportunity to receive photography and filmmaking training through a series of four comprehensive week-long workshops during March and April. This year's increased participation rate, with an emphasis on gender balance, reflects Canon's strong commitment to diversity and inclusive access to education and creative opportunities. Photography Skills to Empower Africa's Youth The workshops will be hosted at the Kings and Queens Art Academy in Bariga, providing easy access for participants from the two communities. Designed to offer a comprehensive learning experience, the sessions cover theoretical training, hands-on practical exercises, and outdoor shooting sessions, ensuring participants develop both technical expertise and artistic vision. Topics include camera handling, composition, and storytelling through images, helping participants master the fundamentals while refining their creative skills. Upon successful completion, participants receive a certification, equipping them with recognized credentials to pursue opportunities in photography and filmmaking, ultimately transforming their lives and communities. Somesh Adukia, Managing Director, Canon Central and North Africa elaborated on the importance of such programmes, saying, 'As an organisation that places great emphasis on people and social impact, Canon's Miraisha programme works to empower Africa's youth. We're so pleased to be, once again, collaborating with Kings and Queens Art Academy to provide a platform to support vulnerable and less privileged young people through photography workshops in their own communities, using local resources.' The Miraisha Programme has already made significant strides in transforming lives. Four talented participants from last year were awarded scholarships to pursue further education at the prestigious PEFTI Film Institute in Lagos, underscoring the programme's effectiveness and Canon's commitment to nurturing future talent. Supporting Nigeria's Creative Industry Kings and Queens Art Academy has been a cornerstone of cultural and artistic education in Bariga since 2013. It is renowned for reviving African cultural heritage and empowering children through art. The Academy's community initiatives include children's art festivals in Lagos and the surrounding areas, celebrating arts development in marginalised communities. Adewale Ayodeji, Director and Founder of Kings and Queens Art Academy, says, 'We are proud to partner with Canon's Miraisha Programme again to empower the youth of Bariga and Makoko with creative skills and open doors to new possibilities and successful careers in photography. This partnership has allowed us to extend our reach and impact, giving opportunities to even more young people.' The successful expansion of its collaboration with the Kings and Queens Art Academy reaffirms Canon's role as a leader in youth empowerment and creative skills training. Through strategic initiatives like the Miraisha Programme, Canon continues to impact lives, foster community relationships, and grow Nigeria's creative industry. Click here to learn more about Miraisha Programme: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA). Media enquiries, please contact: Canon Central and North Africa Mai Youssef e. APO Group - PR Agency Rania ElRafie e. About Canon Central and North Africa: Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) ( is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon's business within the Africa region - by strengthening Canon's in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon's commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market. Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa's rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa. Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei ( – 'living and working together for the common good'. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.
