GIDA, a leading voice in contemporary African art and culture, is proud to announce a new partnership with Leadway Assurance to launch a transformative initiative aimed at nurturing and promoting emerging photographers in Nigeria.
This collaboration features a comprehensive program, including a Photography Masterclass, an exclusive Zine Workshop, and a culminating Launch Event designed to provide essential platforms for learning, growth, and industry visibility.
The program, which kicked off with the successful GIDA Imagemakers masterclass, has selected two promising participants for a hands-on zine workshop. Under the guidance of a professional designer, these photographers will create tangible, printed zines based on the theme “Connection in Community.” Their work will focus on exploring how people interact with each other and their environments through daily exchanges, rituals, public spaces, and shared
experiences.
The initiative will culminate in a vibrant launch event where the selected workshop photographers will unveil their newly created zines. This showcase will attract a curated audience of industry professionals, fellow creatives, and media representatives, providing a unique opportunity for all participants to gain recognition and forge meaningful connections within the art community.
“When we reviewed the portfolios for this project, Victor Akhere and Odunayo Odedoyin’s work immediately stood out. Both brought distinct perspectives to their photography, and during the masterclass, they were engaged and present at every stage of the process,” states Momo Hassan-Odukale, editor-in-chief, GIDA Journal.
“For photographers, there’s something powerful about seeing your work in print, and not many get that opportunity. Although these are zines, we see them as important building blocks that will push both photographers into the next
stage of their journeys. So many people have talent but not enough opportunity to be seen, heard, and guided. Alongside having their work published, they will also learn about making a publication, from paper choices to printing processes – knowledge that is invaluable for photographers. At GIDA, platforming young and talented photographers has always been part of our mission, and we’re proud to see their voices take shape in these zines.”
Since 2022, GIDA has collaborated with over 100 creatives across 13 African cities, with projects spanning journals, photography competitions, handcrafted products & more.
GIDA IMAGE-MAKERS further demonstrates a commitment to providing a platform for the next generation of African creatives and photographers. Notable photographers who have been showcased from GIDA include Peter Chukwu, Christian Cassiel, and Thero Makepe.
The launch event will be held in September 2025 at 16 by 16, located at 16 Kofo Abayomi, Victoria Island, Lagos, where the masterclass was held.
This collaboration between GIDA and Leadway Assurance marks a significant step toward empowering the next generation of visual storytellers in Nigeria, providing them with the necessary tools, mentorship, and platforms to thrive.
