Last Saturday, February 7, 2026, Ballantine’s Whisky hosted its second edition of True Beginnings, an intimate cultural experience that brought together Lagos’ creatives, gamers, and young professionals at Carven, Victoria Island. In line with the brand’s Stay True Together ethos, the event was a masterclass in creating spaces that foster connection, self-expression, and community-building, encouraging participants to stay true to their dreams and goals.
As guests arrived, they were greeted with a spread of gourmet canapés and signature Ballantine’s cocktails, setting the tone for an afternoon of creativity, camaraderie, and staying true to a spirit of creative innovation. The highlight of the event was a vision-boarding session, where attendees crafted visual representations of their hopes and dreams for the year ahead. With canvases, lifestyle magazines, and inspirational quotes in hand, everyone enthusiastically shared their goals and dreams, creating a sense of vulnerability and shared purpose.
The event was a testament to Ballantine’s commitment to supporting Lagos’ creative community, providing a safe space for individuals to connect, share, and grow.
Ms. Aham also went on to say: “Ballantine’s has long been present in high-energy spaces, working closely with raves, festivals, and parties. Music sits at the center of that relationship. Today’s creative culture is shaped by a diverse community—DJs and curators, yes, but also streamers, gamers, producers, event owners, and managers who set tone, build communities, and guide how culture is experienced. This is the foundation of the brand’s Stay True platform, which champions creators across disciplines who remain authentic to their craft and communities.”
The evening’s atmosphere was electric, with guests bonding over shared passions and interests. The gaming lounge and curated DJ set added to the energy, creating an immersive experience that reflected the city’s vibrant youth culture.
Ballantine’s has long been a champion of Lagos’ creative scene, partnering with events like the “Even in the Day” Festival to showcase local talent. True Beginnings is a natural extension of this commitment, offering a platform for creatives to connect and thrive.
In a city that’s rapidly becoming a hub for art and culture, Ballantine’s is playing a vital role in shaping the narrative. With Lagos named among the world’s top seven art destinations for 2026, True Beginnings is a testament to the city’s thriving creative scene.
The future looks bright for Ballantine’s and Lagos’ creative community. As the brand continues to push boundaries and create meaningful experiences, one thing is clear: True Beginnings is just the beginning.
