CreativeBloc Carnival: The advertising creatives are reshaping Nigeria’s creative landscape

In a world where creativity often feels confined to client briefs and agency walls, a group of visionary advertising professionals has set out to create an escape. Welcome to CreativeBloc Carnival, the brainchild of some of Nigeria’s most innovative advertising minds, now gearing up for its second edition on October 5th, 2024.

From Briefs to Blocs

Founded by JP Idama, Creative Director at The Hook Creative Agency, CreativeBloc Carnival isn’t just another industry event—it’s a movement. “We wanted to create something that goes beyond the everyday constraints of advertising,” JP explains. “And we’re not just thinking outside the box, we’re building a whole new playground.”

After last year’s massive success, this year’s carnival is expected to draw over 5,000 Gen Z and millennial creatives from across Nigeria. It promises to be a labyrinth of inspiration—literally. The event’s unique maze-like structure will guide attendees through immersive “blocs,” each dedicated to a different creative discipline.

The Maze

Forget everything you know about event layouts. CreativeBloc Carnival turns navigation into an art form with its maze-like structure. As attendees weave their way through this maze of inspirations, they’ll find “blocs” that defy expectation:

In the ArtBloc, Nigeria’s most brilliant brushstrokes come to life in an outdoor exhibition featuring Artiste Commune. Next door, the MovieBloc, powered by O2 Academy , offers a silent disco cinema experience that’ll make your ears do a double-take.

Mavins Records brings the beat to the MusicBloc, while Otaku TV transports carnival-goers to a world of anime fantasy in the AnimeBloc. Fashionistas can strut their stuff for sale in the FashionBloc, foodies can embark on a flavor odyssey in the FoodBloc, and gamers can level up in the GameBloc, courtesy of Africa Comicade.

Star-Studded Collaborations

CreativeBloc Carnival isn’t just powered by imagination—it’s fueled by an all-star lineup of brands that believe in the power of creativity. Leadway is leading the way, with Indomie Cafe cooking up support and Harmony Stores, Captain Morgan, Don Royale, Bigi, Sosa, GetRensa and Goalr proving that when it comes to creativity, it’s all about scoring big.

But wait, there’s more! The media terrain of CreativeBloc Carnival is lighting up with partners like Orktave Group, Zikoko, and Kraks TV spreading the word. Seafood Okra is adding some spice to the mix, while Marketing Edge and AAAN are sharpening the industry angle.

And let’s not forget the creative heavyweights joining forces to make this carnival unforgettable. The Artists Commune is bringing the artistic flair, O2 Academy is schooling us in entertainment, and Mavins Records is dropping the beats. It’s a heavyweight collaboration, and everyone’s invited!

“These partnerships are a testament to the creative community’s desire for connection and collaboration,” says Seun Longe, strategic partner and head of sponsorship for CreativeBloc Carnival. “We’re breaking down silos and creating a true ecosystem of creativity.”

The Minds Behind Magic

CreativeBloc Carnival is the result of a dedicated team of advertising professionals who saw an opportunity to give back to the creative community. Aside from the founder, JP Idama, we have Mmesoma Obi, the carnival’s co-founder and Content Strategist, Spice360, who juggles logistics like a pro circus performer. “It’s like herding creative cats,” she laughs, “but when it all comes together, it’s pure magic.”

Alongside the duo, the team includes:

– Seun Longe, Brand Manager, Wild Fusion

– Williams Jonah, Brand Manager, SO&U

– Gbenga Ojumu, Senior Event Manager, Q21 Solutions

– Ugochukwu Idama, Ass.Manager, The Hook

– Adefolarin Badejo, Motion Designer, The Hook

– Progress Igumbor, Brand Strategist, X3m Ideas

– Timilehin Alajogun, Brand Strategist, Total AutocarePlus

-Japeth, Editor, Lead Motion Designer, Insight Communications

– Ifebajo Stephen, Final year student, Unilorin

– Abiola Bodunrin, Visual Artist and Founder Artist Commune

Each team member brings their unique expertise from the advertising world, ensuring that CreativeBloc Carnival is not just an event, but a masterclass in creative experiences.

Beyond Advertising

CreativeBloc Carnival isn’t just an event—it’s a creative big bang, expanding the universe of what’s possible when advertising minds set their sights on something bigger. Born from the minds of advertising creatives, it represents a bold step beyond the traditional confines of the industry.

“We’re used to conquering briefs daily,” says Mmesoma Obi, co-founder and Chief Admin. “But with CreativeBloc Carnival, we’re conquering the entire creative ecosystem. We’re creating experiences that help creatives unwind, connect, and rediscover their passion.”

For Gen Z and millennial creatives, the event offers more than just entertainment—it’s a place to network, learn, and find inspiration across disciplines.

Leading Nigeria’s Creative Revolution

As the countdown to October 5th, 2024, ticks away, it’s clear that CreativeBloc Carnival is painting a new picture of Nigeria’s creative future. It’s a movement that’s reshaping Nigeria’s creative landscape, fostering a new era of collaboration, and the next big thing is always just around the corner.

“We’re not just organizing an event,” JP concludes. “We’re orchestrating a creative revolution. CreativeBloc Carnival is where the magic happens and the future of creativity gets a total makeover.”

For Nigeria’s creative community, this isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s the dawning of a new era. As CreativeBloc Carnival prepares to throw open its doors, one thing is crystal clear: in the world of creativity, the only limit is the sky, and even that’s up for renovation.

Ready to join the creative revolution? CreativeBloc Carnival kicks off on October 5th, 2024. Get your tickets tix.africa/creative and for a daily dose of creative chaos, follow the madness @creativesbloc_carnival on social media. See you in the maze!