The ABC Conference 2025: Beyond Borders
Connecting African Creativity to the Global Stage
A 3-day immersive experience for creative entrepreneurs, global partners, and industry leaders to build, connect, and scale African creativity for the world.
LOCATION
Balmoral Convention Center, Ikeja, Lagos
DATE & TIME
February 1st - 5th, 2027
10AM - 4PM
SPEAKERS
12+ Professionals
SEATS
700+ People
About This Event
The ABC Conference (Art, Business, and Creativity) enters its third edition as a transformative landmark event, empowering African creatives with the essential tools, strategic clarity, and global connections needed to excel on the world stage.
Hosted by Gazmadu Education, this intensive 3-day experience brings together photographers, filmmakers, designers, fashion entrepreneurs, digital creators, performers, and cultural leaders for dynamic learning, meaningful collaboration, and inspiring celebration of African creativity.
2025 Theme: Beyond Borders
This year, we go “Beyond Borders” to connect African creatives with international markets, collaborations, and impact. We will explore what it means to:
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Build global-ready creative businesses
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Leverage platforms for global storytelling
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Collaborate across cultures
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Lead innovation in the creative economy
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Use art for international impact
2025 Theme: Beyond Borders
This year, we go “Beyond Borders” to connect African creatives with international markets, collaborations, and impact. We will explore what it means to:
-
Build global-ready creative businesses
-
Leverage platforms for global storytelling
-
Collaborate across cultures
-
Lead innovation in the creative economy
-
Use art for international impact
Highlights from the Past
Take a look back at some of the most memorable highlights from last year’s edition. From engaging sessions and powerful conversations to vibrant performances and unforgettable interactions, these snapshots capture the energy, joy, and connections that defined the event.
They serve as a reminder of the incredible experiences we shared and set the tone for what’s to come this year.
EVENT WILL START IN
what to expect
Keynotes
Visionary leaders on global creativity, innovation, and impact
Panels
Raw conversations with successful African creatives on building international careers
Masterclasses & Workshops
Hands-on training in business, branding, global platforms, communication, pricing, and storytelling.
Showcase
A spotlight on Africa’s finest — visual artists, filmmakers, designers, and more
Impact Project Workshop
Design a personal creative impact project tackling global social issues
Networking
Real connection. Real opportunities. With fellow creatives, partners, and mentors.
our objectives
Connect African creatives to global markets
Facilitate cross-cultural collaborations
Empower creatives to lead and scale globally
Amplify African voices on the global stage
Foster cultural exchange and sustainable entrepreneurship
Use art and creativity as a tool for global impact
ABOUT Gazmadu Education
Gazmadu Education is the educational arm of Gazmadu, a leading African creative company dedicated to empowering photographers and creatives across the continent. Founded by Yagazie Eguare — a visionary creative entrepreneur who recognised the urgent need for structured, world-class education tailored to African talent — Gazmadu Education bridges the gap between raw creativity and sustainable business success.
With a bold mission to raise 1 million creative entrepreneurs by 2035, we have already reached over 10,000 creatives and provided intensive coaching, masterclasses, and community-driven programmes to more than 500, helping them gain clarity, sharpen their skills, and build thriving, globally competitive businesses.
We believe that structured creative education has the power to transform lives, fuel economies, and rewrite the global narrative about African creativity.
meet the speakers
keynote speakers
Tolani Alli
Narrative Architect at World Bank
Isaac Emokpae
Creative Director,
Youtopia Creations Ltd
Speakers
our sponsors
We are grateful to our sponsors whose support makes this event possible. Their commitment and partnership help us deliver an unforgettable experience and create lasting impact. Together, we’re shaping the future
Partner With Us
We are actively seeking collaborations with:
- Creative agencies
- Tech & telecom companies
- Media organisations
- NGOs & cultural bodies
- Government institutions
- Education partners
- Global brands invested in youth, innovation, and creative industries
Thousands of reviews from trusted companies
join the movement
Help us unleash the next generation of African creatives — globally connected, economically empowered, and culturally rooted.