The inaugural Bayelsa Creatives Converge took place on Tuesday at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Yenagoa, bringing together young talents, industry leaders, and dignitaries from across and beyond Bayelsa State.
Organized by entertainment professional Mr. Emma Eco, in partnership with the Bayelsa State Government, the event aimed to celebrate and empower the state’s growing creative community.
A Day of Innovation and Networking
The event kicked off with a networking breakfast, setting the stage for what became a melting pot of ideas and collaborations. A captivating Fashion and Art Show followed, showcasing cultural and artistic excellence. From runway designs to intricate artworks, the show underscored Bayelsa’s creative potential.
Industry Leaders Share Insights
The formal session featured prominent speakers sharing their knowledge to inspire local creatives:
Dr. Daniel Iworiso Markson, publisher of First News, delivered a session on The Business of Branding. He emphasized strategic brand building, stating, “You must do everything you can to get into the minds of your consumers.” He provided practical steps to help creatives position their brands as industry leaders and drive business growth.
Mr. Harry Porbeni, lead business consultant at Planet Harry Solutions, spoke on harnessing talent and skill for consistent income. He encouraged participants to refine their abilities and transform their natural gifts into sustainable careers.
Panel Discussions: Overcoming Challenges
The event also featured panel discussions with industry stalwarts, including Ovieteme George of Arise News, Victor Binawari of NDU Radio, and Derrick Onowode of Tripli. Panelists shared stories of resilience, offering lessons on overcoming obstacles and thriving in the competitive creative landscape.
A Message of Hope from the First Lady
A key moment of the day was an address by the First Lady of Bayelsa State, Her Excellency Mrs. Gloria Diri. She called on the youth to embrace hard work, perseverance, and collaboration to achieve success.
“Learn to work for free,” she advised. “This is how to show that our youths are interested in enhancing and profiting themselves. You have everything you need right here in Bayelsa. Identify your strengths, pursue them with passion, and work together to achieve greatness.”
Her speech served as a rallying cry for attendees to apply the lessons from the event to their pursuits.
A Promising Future
The event concluded with participants expressing optimism about the future of Bayelsa’s creative industry. Many left with actionable strategies to elevate their craft and contribute to the state’s economy.
The Bayelsa Creatives Converge successfully provided a platform for learning, networking, and showcasing talent, reinforcing Bayelsa’s potential as a hub for creativity and innovation. As the event ended, the message was clear: Bayelsa’s creative future is bright, and the journey has just begun.