The Black History and Lifestyle Awards (BHLA), in partnership with Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), turned the institution into a vibrant centre of creativity and hope as young Nigerians gathered for the maiden Youth in Creativity 1.0 on December 3, 2025.
Hosted by media personality Layole Oyatogun, the event drew over 1,000 eager creatives who trooped into the campus—ready to learn, network, and chase possibilities many had only imagined.
From the start, the energy was infectious. In her keynote address, BHLA Founder, Mrs. Eziada Folashade Balogun, urged young people to “dream boldly, learn fearlessly, and create relentlessly,” reminding them that creativity has become a powerful driver of the global economy.
Representing the Rector, Dr. Angel Bismilai reaffirmed YABATECH’s commitment to helping youths turn their ideas into real impact. He said the partnership with BHLA signaled the start of a long-term movement to support young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities they need.
The atmosphere grew even more electric when top voices in the creative industry took the stage. Bimpe Onakoya, Ugochukwu George Igbokwe, Emmy Kasbit, Kid Baby, Anita Asianya, Tope Adenola, Tolu Arogunmati, Gift Vincent, Ololade Amina Afolabi-Borogun, and Omosalewa Ogunnowo shared raw, practical lessons on navigating the industry, staying resilient, and turning passion into profit.
Government officials, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, also attended—signaling strong institutional support for creative growth.
But the biggest impact came from the hands-on empowerment. Participants joined masterclasses in fashion design, digital content creation, photography, makeup, and hairstyling. At the end, many young creatives left not just with new skills, but with real tools: sewing machines, smartphones, curated makeup kits, and professional hairstyling equipment—gifts that could jump-start careers immediately.
The collaboration between BHLA and YABATECH showed what becomes possible when institutions invest intentionally in young minds: creativity grows, careers begin, and dreams get the push they need to become reality.
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