NAIROBI, Kenya- Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Canon’s Miraisha program continues to leave a transformative mark on Africa’s creative landscape.
Launched a decade ago by imaging giant Canon, the initiative has empowered over 7,000 aspiring filmmakers, photographers, and creative professionals across the continent.
Through a blend of training programs, skills workshops, and enterprise support, Miraisha has not only helped individuals gain qualifications but also secure employment and establish thriving businesses.
The milestone event celebrating Miraisha’s 10 years of impact was hosted at KCA University, where Canon Central and North Africa awarded 10 scholarships to hand-picked African students.
These scholarships will support a one-year course at prestigious institutions such as KCA University in Kenya, PEFTI Film Institute in Nigeria, and IFCPA/CRTV in Cameroon.
This gesture underscores Canon’s commitment to nurturing talent across Africa, with a goal to train 10,000 participants by 2027.
Since its inception, the Miraisha program has reached significant milestones. With 33 partnerships across various African organizations, including the Kenya Film Commission and Uganda Press Photo Award (UPPA), the program has been a cornerstone of empowerment.
Canon’s efforts were further highlighted by the release of a visually stunning coffee table book at the event, chronicling Miraisha’s journey and celebrating the program’s many success stories.
The anniversary event was also about enriching the skills of future creatives. A photography exhibition showcased the impressive work of students, allowing attendees to interact with the young talent and gain insights into their creative processes.
Canon also honored the program’s dedicated trainers with certificates and speeches, acknowledging their vital role in shaping Africa’s creative future.
A highlight of the day was a training session led by Canon Certified Trainer Georgina Goodwin.
Titled “How to Make a Successful Photography Business,” the session provided essential tips on building a brand, presenting oneself to clients, and crafting compelling elevator pitches.
This training is a testament to Miraisha’s ongoing commitment to equipping its participants with the practical skills needed to succeed in the competitive creative industry.
As Miraisha enters its second decade, Canon is not resting on its laurels. The company plans to expand its reach, empowering more young Africans to pursue their creative passions and build successful careers in the imaging industry.
By increasing partnerships with educational institutions, government bodies, and industry leaders, Canon aims to provide even more comprehensive training and development opportunities.
Canon’s Managing Director for Central and North Africa, Somesh Adukia, expressed his pride in the program’s achievements and optimism for the future.
“This celebration is not just about reflecting on our past achievements but also about looking forward to a future filled with limitless possibilities for the talented individuals we support,” Adukia remarked.
