Kidpreneur Africa Foundation has announced a new partnership with Studio24, Kodak Moments, Canon Academy, and Derwin Film Academy to empower selected girls across Nigeria with creative and photography skills. The announcement was made at a press conference in Lagos, where the organisations officially introduced the Pix-Her Africa project, the platform through which the training will take place.
Juliet Vincent-Obi, founder and executive director of Kidpreneur Africa Foundation, explained that the project will support 20 Nigerian girls between the ages of 15 and 18. She said the programme will begin with a six-month in-house training at Studio24 in Lagos, followed by an additional one year and six months of apprenticeship to help the girls deepen their skills. Vincent-Obi described the opportunity as one that could open doors for the participants, encouraging them to use the programme as inspiration to build their own photography careers. She told the girls, “there is no excuse for you not to succeed. Do not settle for less.”
Studio24 team leader, Chris Oputa, also spoke at the event, noting that the photography industry is experiencing a major shift and that women should have a strong role in shaping its future. He stressed the importance of proper empowerment and investment to correct the impression that the creative sector is dominated by males. Oputa added that Pix-Her Africa offers a rare opportunity for young girls because it is a paid apprenticeship that can help them start a career or business in photography.
He explained how technology is influencing the industry, saying, “Technology has removed needless middlemen in the business, but has also shown them how to make money through other ways. And we are providing funding for these middlemen to be self-sufficient in the photography businesses.”
Representatives of Kodak Moments for the Middle East and Africa, Anja Weidel and Alfred Otieno, highlighted the importance of printed photographs and preserving memories on paper. They encouraged more young people to pursue careers in photography, especially at a time when the industry continues to evolve.
Founder of Derwin Film Academy, Grace Edwin-Okon, expressed concern about the limited number of women professionals in the photography space. She praised the partners for launching a project that will equip young girls with skills and show them what is possible in the creative field. As part of the partnership, she said Derwin Film Academy will train the girls in basic photography, filmmaking, film directing, scripting, special effect make-up, and other creative areas.
Co-founder of the academy, Alex Edwin-Okon, added that they are excited to support a project that empowers girls with practical skills, industry networks, and opportunities to earn income while learning.
Parents and guardians of the selected girls shared their appreciation at the event. Marvel Etietop, a parent, and Olufunso Arawole, a guardian, thanked the organisers for investing in the future of their children. Four of the beneficiaries, Blessed Emmanuel, Ibukunoluwa Akintola, Blessing Ayelu, and Naomi Edet, also expressed gratitude and promised to take full advantage of the opportunity.
