From the first light of morning to the amber glow of evening, the Alliance Française de Lagos was transformed, not by music or dance, but by purpose, dialogue, and reflection. The inaugural edition of Through Her Lens, a pioneering initiative, unfolded as a living portrait of women’s creativity, resilience, and influence across Nigeria’s creative industry.

L-R: Osato Evbuomwan, Marketing Director at Moët Hennessy, Steve Babaeko, Founder/ CEO X3M Ideas, Katharina Blum, CEO Pulse Africa, Lanre Adisa, CEO/ CCO Noah’s Ark Communications and Osarimen Ukhurebor, Founder, Black AT

Speaking with MARKETING EDGE, the convener, by Osarimen Ukhurebor, Chief Executive Officer of Black At,  said the event went beyond a gathering to  become a manifesto of intention, recognition, and equality.

Despite its focus on women, the strong turnout of men underscored a powerful statement: today, male allies are equally committed to championing women’s progress in the creative space.

“This is the main edition of Through Her Lens, an initiative designed to showcase women within the creative space,” Ukhurebor declared. “Our aim is to understand how best to project women, ensuring equal pay, gender equality, and accessibility to global platforms. For Nigerian women, our message is clear: We understand you, we believe in what you do, and we applaud your work. Hang in there. Be strong in whatever you do, and whatever field you are in. Your creativity defines you, not your gender.”

Through Her Lens operates in strategic partnership with UN Women’s Stereotype Alliance, and this year, its mission extends further: to collect critical data, map the challenges women face, and uncover the realities within the creative sector.

Black At’s collaboration with local networks such as Women in Marketing, the Advertising Agencies of Nigeria, and other creative collectives, ensures that insights are informed, actionable, and anchored in the lived experiences of women and their allies.

The event brought together an impressive roster of industry leaders, trailblazers, and thought influencers, including Bunmi Oke, Lead Consultant at Ladybird Advertising; Steve Babaeko, Founder/CEO of X3M Ideas; Lanre Adisa, CEO/CCO of Noah’s Ark Communications; Osato Evbuomwan, Marketing Director at Moët Hennessy; Mabel Adeteye, Head of Brand & Marketing Communications at Wema Bank; Elohor Olumide-Awe; Sade Dada; Feyisayo Alayande; Thubewa Diwani; Audrey Solvar, among others. Their participation reinforced the initiative’s commitment to elevating women, fostering dialogue, and bridging gaps across the creative sector.

Panels and moderated discussions throughout the day revealed the nuanced realities women face, offering practical insights on equal pay, access to global platforms, and opportunities in creative leadership.

Moderators like Ralph Tathagata, Managing Editor/Divisional Director at MARKETING EDGE Publications Ltd., and Katharina Blum, CEO of Pulse Africa, guided conversations that blended strategy, experience, and foresight. Speakers included influential voices such as Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder/CRO of Ruff ‘n’ Tumble; Femi Odugbemi, Producer & Founder of Zuri24 Media; and Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, CEO of AWMC, who joined virtually.

At its core, Through Her Lens is more than a showcase but a movement aimed at progressing women in the creative space, promoting equality in opportunities and pay, and enhancing visibility on both local and international platforms.

Ukhurebor emphasised that the initiative is just beginning. “Our goal is to continually support women, understand the challenges they face, and provide pathways for growth, visibility, and recognition on both local and global stages,” he explained.

With all the testimonials from many of the participants, there is no doubt that, Through Her Lens is reshaping narratives, redefining opportunities, and positioning women in the creative space to be seen, valued, and celebrated.

So, with Black At at the helm, guided by Ukhurebor’s vision, the initiative promises a future where women’s voices resonate throughout Nigeria’s creative landscape, sparking equality, innovation, and lasting industry impact.