From See It Be It to Sitting on the Jury: Esosa Osagiede Becomes Cannes Juror

When brilliance rises, the world takes note. Esosa Osagiede, one of Nigeria’s most formidable creative minds, has been named a juror for the Print & Publishing Lions at the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity just two years after she stood out as the only West African in the prestigious See It Be It programme. Now, she’s not just witnessing greatness; she’s helping define it.

This is such a career-defining moment, but for those who’ve followed Esosa’s fearless journey, it’s no surprise. For nearly two decades, she’s been a force in the industry, sparking bold ideas, leading powerhouse teams, and shaking up the status quo with unforgettable campaigns. As Creative Director at Insight Publicis, she’s not just crafting ads; she’s crafting culture.

Esosa took to LinkedIn to share the news with her signature mix of humility and hype:

“I’m incredibly humbled and honored (still a little numb!) to be a Print & Publishing juror at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. I can’t wait to lend my voice, share perspectives, and celebrate the best of the best creative work.”

From breaking grounds as a copywriter to becoming one of Africa’s most decorated creative directors — with titles like Creative Personality of the Year (2024), WIMCA’s Most Outstanding Creative Director (2023 & 2024), a Grand Prix win at LAIF and making the 2025 DARE! List 2025 – Celebrating Black creative leaders shaping the future Globally, Esosa’s résumé reads like a masterclass in impact.

Her 2023 See It Be It experience didn’t just elevate her visibility; it reignited her mission: to mentor rising talent, amplify underrepresented voices, and push the boundaries of African storytelling.

Today, as she steps into the Cannes jury room, she carries with her not just the pride of a nation but the energy of every dreamer daring to disrupt the norm.

She’s not just judging ads. She’s championing ideas that move the world.

Lights. Jury. Action.