USAID Partners with Ascend Studios to Launch the Africa Creative Blueprint
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with Ascend Studios, has announced the launch of the Africa Creative Blueprint, a groundbreaking initiative designed to strengthen Nigeria’s creative industry and elevate its talent to global prominence.
This $3.5 million partnership, supported by additional contributors such as Paramount Nigeria, Venture Garden Group, and music executive Ralph Simon, will address key challenges in Nigeria’s Nollywood and creative sectors. These include improving production quality, expanding distribution channels, enhancing storytelling techniques, and reinforcing intellectual property protections.
Empowering Nigeria’s Creative Talent
The Africa Creative Blueprint aims to provide intensive training for 3,500 young Nigerians, equipping them with skills in television production and other creative roles. It also plans to establish a workforce of at least 200 skilled professionals capable of producing high-quality content. The program will culminate in the production of a 13-episode, music-infused TV drama, serving as both a creative showcase and a platform for social messaging.
Training sessions will be conducted across six Nigerian cities—Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Kano, Benin, and Asaba—ensuring accessibility for aspiring creatives nationwide.
Global Recognition and Strategic Investment
USAID Nigeria Mission Director Melissa Jones emphasised the U.S. government’s commitment to fostering global partnerships and enhancing Nigeria’s creative economy.
“This partnership will create high-quality, commercially viable content that positions Nigeria as a leading player on the world stage,” Jones stated.
Building Infrastructure for a Thriving Industry
Ascend Studios CEO Inya Lawal expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, describing it as a pivotal moment for the Nigerian creative sector.
“This initiative provides the foundation to elevate African stories and nurture talent capable of transforming the industry globally,” Lawal said.
Applications for training and roles in the TV drama are now open, with a deadline set for December 15, 2024. Interested individuals can apply via Ascend Studios’ official website or follow Ascend Global Studios on social media for updates.
This partnership is poised to redefine Nigeria’s creative landscape, offering young talents the tools and opportunities to shine on an international stage.
