Empowering Africa’s Creative Future – Highlights from the ACSIS Exchange Webinar

🌍 Empowering Africa’s Creative Future – Highlights from the ACSIS Exchange Webinar 🎨🎶

The 5th edition of the ACSIS Exchange Webinar Series spotlighted the transformative potential of Africa and the Caribbean’s creative and cultural industries. Hosted by David F. Roberts, the session gathered artists, entrepreneurs, cultural leaders, and policymakers to discuss how culture can fuel economic development, youth employment, and regional integration.

🎤 Michael, reporting from Nairobi, highlighted his work with the British Council and shared insights from his involvement in multimedia training, while exploring how icons like Nike Davies Okundaye use art for social change. His presentation stressed the economic value of cultural industries, from music and fashion to carnivals, such as Notting Hill and Trinidad’s, which contribute billions to national economies.

🎭 Michael also raised concerns about cultural appropriation, brain drain, and lack of investment—calling for better contracts, legal support, and platforms that empower creators.

👩🏾‍🏫 Nadine Hagen, a London-based educator from Cameroon, offered a personal narrative on female leadership, tracing inspiration from her grandmother’s entrepreneurial legacy. She highlighted her work in community education, African product promotion, and cultural documentation—especially around traditional knowledge and food systems.

🛍️ The session closed with strong calls to action: protect our culture, invest in our creators, and strengthen African-Caribbean economic exchange.

ACSIS continues to unite Africa and the Caribbean through culture, sustainability, and trade. Stay tuned for our next webinar—and don’t miss the ACSIS 2025 Summit in London, 21–22 November.