Canon, Debra’s Palace Forge Path for Young Creatives

In a world where opportunities shape the futures of young people, Canon Central and North Africa and Debra’s Palace Initiative are unlocking pathways for growth, where skills empower, and mentorship sparks transformative potential.

In September, Canon Central & North Africa joined forces with Debra’s Palace Initiative to host the second edition of the Creative Summer School in Lagos.

Over the course of two immersive weeks, Nigerian youth were immersed in a world of creativity, guided mentorship, and vital life skills, equipping them to thrive in Africa’s rapidly growing creative economy.  

Through Canon’s award-winning Miraisha Programme, which has already empowered over 7,000 creatives across Africa and aims to train 10,000 by 2030, the Summer School provided young men aged 18 to 25 with practical, hands-on experience in photography, filmmaking, and digital arts, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and inspiration to turn their passions into ways to earn a living.  

The Creative Summer School programme featured intensive three-day training, giving participants hands-on experience in photography, filmmaking, editing, sound production, content creation, and graphic design.

They also gained skills in cinematography, financial literacy, the business of creativity, etiquette, and daily mentorship.

Canon Miraisha led a focused photography course combining classroom lessons with outdoor shoots and projects, with two standout students receiving Canon Selphy CP1000 printers for their exceptional work.

Speaking at the exhibition and certification ceremony, Rashad Ghani expressed admiration for talent and potential on display.

“Africa is vibrant and brimming with opportunity,” he said. “With the right chance, these young people can achieve extraordinary things. Through the Miraisha Programme, Canon equips Africa’s youth with hands-on technical skills, mentorship, and life skills to thrive, and lead, in the growing creative economy. Our work with Debra’s Palace Initiative underscores that creativity is not just a career path, but a powerful driver of positive social change.”

Ghani highlighted that participants received training on Canon’s latest entry-level and mirrorless cameras, including the EOS R50, EOS R10 and EOS M50.

He urged the youth to prioritize honing their skills, noting, “At this stage, what truly matters is skill, consistency, and storytelling.”

He also praised the impact of the Debra’s Palace Initiative, affirming that the collaboration would continue. “By offering mentorship and skill development within safe, supportive environments, the initiative empowers youth to make meaningful contributions to their communities, perfectly complementing the goals of Canon’s Miraisha Programme,” he added.

Canon’s commitment to sustainable development is rooted in its corporate philosophy of Kyosei, living and working together for the common good.

Through a strong focus on mentorship, skill-building, and long-term community impact, the Miraisha Programme has transformed the lives of thousands of young creatives across Africa.

By partnering with organizations such as the Kings and Queens Art Academy in Nigeria, Maono Africa in Kenya, and the Lens on Life Project in Cameroon, Canon equips youth with the skills and foundation needed to build sustainable livelihoods.

Mrs. Damlola Chinedu, Founder and Executive Director of Debras Palace Initiative, stated that the partnership with Canon reflects the organization’s long-standing mission to support and mentor the youth.

She noted that many participants had never used a camera before. “The work they produced following the photography training is simply remarkable,” she said.

She highlighted that since 2020, Debras Palace has positively impacted over 4,500 boys through mentorship, educational support, and empowerment programs.

She further announced plans to expand the initiative, aiming to train 10,000 youth across Nigeria by 2026.

Both Canon and Debra’s Palace reaffirmed their commitment to the partnership, focused on equipping youth with the skills, confidence, and support necessary to thrive in today’s creative industries.