Latest news with #CreativeEconomy


Broadcast Pro
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Broadcast Pro
Nigeria and Brazil sign audiovisual co-production agreement
The agreement will grant both countries access to each other's incentive programmes. Nigeria and Brazil have entered into a co-production agreement aimed at strengthening cultural ties and expanding opportunities in film, television, animation and other audiovisual sectors. The Audiovisual Co-Production Agreement, recently signed by both countries, paves the way for joint development, funding, and distribution of creative projects, marking a new era of collaboration between two of the world's most populous Black nations, according to a report by Deadline. The bilateral accord is designed to enhance global visibility for both Nigerian and Brazilian creatives while fostering a deeper cultural and creative exchange rooted in their shared transatlantic history. Under the terms of the agreement, filmmakers and producers from each country will gain access to incentives and support structures available in the partner nation, promoting shared resources and collaborative storytelling. Nigeria's Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa-Musawa, hailed the agreement as more than a diplomatic milestone, describing it as a bridge connecting continents, cultures, and creative economies. She emphasised that the deal reflects Nigeria's commitment to showcasing its stories on the global stage and collaborating with nations that value African and Afro-Brazilian narratives. Musa-Musawa noted that the agreement aligns with ongoing initiatives such as Destination 2030 and the 'Nigeria Everywhere' campaign, which aim to grow Nigeria's creative economy through international partnerships, cultural diplomacy and expanded access to global markets. She added that the collaboration will not only spark creative innovation but also generate employment and strengthen industries that have long been central to the cultural identity of both nations. Additional details, including exchange programmes and implementation plans, are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks as the two countries begin activating the agreement's potential to reshape their creative landscapes.

The Herald
10-06-2025
- Business
- The Herald
Billboard launches Billboard Africa, a game-changer for the continent's music industry
'We are thrilled to launch Billboard Africa, a pivotal step in recognisng Africa's profound contributions to global music culture,' said Josh Wilson, MD at Global Venture Partners. 'African music is a driving force that continues to reshape global music trends.' More than only recognition, the initiative is about building infrastructure. Brandon Martin, CEO of Global Venture Partners, emphasised the long-term vision: 'We're not only raising visibility for artists but laying the groundwork for an infrastructure that supports sustainable growth. Billboard Africa is about amplifying potential and encouraging investment in the continent's creative economy.' At the helm of the ambitious rollout is Nkosiyati Khumalo, editor-in-chief of Billboard Africa, who brings a deep understanding of African culture and storytelling. 'Bringing Billboard's thought leadership home to Africa, and sharing more African stories with the world, is an immense honor,' said Nkosiyati. 'This is about supporting the diverse artists and professionals who drive African music forward.' From curated events to awards shows, artist spotlights to industry insights, Billboard Africa is setting the stage for a cultural and economic renaissance. As the world tunes in, the continent's musicians are ready to turn up the volume.


Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
New Heritage Sector takes the spotlight at Make it in the Emirates
Traditional Emirati crafts reimagined for today's market and tomorrow's makers From daggers to handbags, heritage products find new life in the creative economy Abu Dhabi – For the first time, Make it in the Emirates features a dedicated Handcrafts sector, spotlighting the UAE's artisanal heritage and its role in today's creative economy. Around 50 craftspeople and heritage-based businesses take part daily, with workshops, cultural talks, and live sessions. Organised by ADNEC Group and hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, and held alongside strategic partners the Ministry of Culture, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and ADNOC, this fourth and largest edition to date of Make it in the Emirates gathers industry leaders, investors, and policymakers, offering a global hub for innovation and advanced manufacturing. It runs from May 19 to 22, 2025 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. At Make it in the Emirates, the Ministry of Culture signed a series of MoUs with national partners to establish a unified National Registry for Craftspeople. The agreements will help promote local craft products, encourage artisan registration, provide accurate data and market insights, and foster a supportive ecosystem for sustainable growth across the sector. The agreements included the following entities: General Women's Union Al Ghadeer Emirati Crafts Project, under the Emirates Red Crescent signed with the Ministry of Culture. Ghars Centre for Social Empowerment, under Fujairah Charity Association signed with the Ministry of Culture. Department of Antiquities and Museums – Ras Al Khaimah Among the exhibitors in the Heritage Sector is Al Ghadeer Emirati Crafts, a non-profit that trains women—many of whom have no prior skills—in the art of handcrafting goods using techniques like Talli, Khous, Sadu, and pottery. Al Ghadeer's work transforms ancient techniques into products such as handbags and home décor items, blending traditional design with modern functionality. The organisation has already trained over 470 women, and their creations, alongside live demonstrations, have travelled to international exhibitions in the UK, Italy, China, and beyond. Also on show is Khunair, the heritage brand of Beit Al Khunair, which produces handcrafted Emirati daggers, coffee pots, and other heritage items, preserving the UAE's legacy while creating items of enduring social and national value. One such item is a ceremonial sword crafted for H.E. Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his visit to Italy, reflecting the deep cultural and symbolic value of traditional Emirati craftsmanship. The team of artisans, including goldsmiths and metalsmiths, continues to handcraft Emirati symbols using traditional methods passed down through generations. Khunair is at Make it in the Emirates to revive interest in traditional Emirati craftsmanship and encourage greater local appreciation for heritage products. They see the event as a chance to showcase handmade items like the Khanyar dagger and ceremonial artefacts to a wider audience, connect with new customers, and highlight the cultural value of UAE-made goods in a market where many still look abroad for such pieces. Their goal is to position heritage crafts not only as symbols of identity but also as commercially viable products that deserve recognition and support. Dubai Culture and Arts Authority joins the Handcrafts sector to raise awareness about the value of traditional crafts and the need to keep them alive in everyday life, having been passed down through generations, but are now at risk of fading due to fast-paced, modern lifestyles. Their participation focuses on showing younger generations not only how these crafts are made, but also the meaning, time, and cultural identity behind them. Even within the same craft, such as palm weaving, techniques and colour choices can vary widely between families and regions, reflecting the diverse interpretations of a shared heritage. By blending traditional methods with modern design, like turning woven patterns into contemporary handbags or home décor, they hope to make these crafts more relevant and appreciated today. Meanwhile, Al Khaznah Leathers, a sustainable tannery based in Abu Dhabi, bridges heritage and innovation. Founded in 2003 as a vision of Sheikh Zayed, the company specialises in chrome-free, camel leather tanning using eco-conscious methods. From handbags to aviation upholstery, Al Khaznah's goods span multiple industries while remaining rooted in traditional leatherwork. Through its in-house studio and training initiatives, the company is helping to reimagine Emirati craftsmanship in a global, sustainable context. Together, these exhibitors represent a powerful narrative: that handcrafts are not just relics of the past, but a path forward, one that fosters cultural continuity, supports livelihoods, and champions UAE-made excellence on the world stage.


Al-Ahram Weekly
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Empower Her Art Forum launches at the Grand Egyptian Museum - Visual Art - Arts & Culture
The third edition of the Empower Her Art Forum (EHAF), organised by Art Today, launched on Friday with a ceremony held at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Running until 20 May, the forum features over 200 female artists from over 35 countries. EHAF, which aims to empower women, held three panel discussions on its second day on various topics, such as Women Shaping Identity Through Art & Culture, Voices of Women Leading Transformation, and Women Disrupting the Creative Economy. This year, the forum's programme includes workshops on creativity, visual arts, psychology, painting and drawing, and various expressive techniques. Over 10 workshops will be held throughout the forum days, led by international artists from Spain, Germany, Ethiopia, Greece, Turkey, and Oman. It also features a series of exhibitions showcasing artworks by artists from Finland, Romania, Italy, Serbia, Spain, Bahrain, India, Qatar, and other countries. Palestine is on display through the works of Palestinian artists Amira Mannah and Dina Mattar, who shed light on the Palestinian experience by weaving stories of resilience, identity, and hope. Participants in the discussions and workshops can benefit from the knowledge and expertise of several Egyptian and international women artists. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:


Forbes
12-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Members-Only Event: Unlocking Capital, Visibility & Sustainability For Black Creators In Today's Economy
As co-founder of BOMESI (Black Owned Media Equity and Sustainability Institute) and founder/CEO of Her Agenda, Rhonesha Byng is championing a new generation of creatives and entrepreneurs. Join us June 3rd at 1 PM EST for an inspiring conversation on how Byng is scaling impact through BOMESI's growing accelerator, why she's betting on Black media when others are pulling back, and how Black creators can find access to capital, visibility, and long-term sustainability in the creator economy. Attend and learn all about: Ali Jackson-Jolley Ali Jackson-Jolley is an assistant managing editor at Forbes, where she leads diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and strategies aimed at achieving a newsroom that is reflective of the Forbes audience and society at large. Notably, Ali launched the Forbes HBCU Scholars Program (formerly the Forbes HBCU Fellowship Program), the Forbes + Gold House Business Journalism Accelerator, and the Forbes BLK editorial community. Prior to this, she worked as a journalist focused on issues related to race, ethnicity, diversity, and society, and in government relations on Capitol Hill, where she worked on issues involving women and underrepresented groups, enacting reform in government, business, and education. Rhonesha Byng Rhonesha Byng, CEO of Her Agenda, is a visionary entrepreneur and media thought leader. Guided by the philosophy N.E.S.H.A. – No one Ever Slows Her Agenda – she empowers millennial women through content and community. An Emmy award-winning journalist turned entrepreneur she is a sought-after speaker. Rhonesha champions diversity, equity, and media innovation. She's been recognized by platforms including Forbes 30 under 30, ESSENCE, BET, and NBC. Her impact extends through co-founding the Black Owned Media Equity and Sustainability Institute (BOMESI), reshaping narratives, and fostering change.