Funke Akindele Hosts Second "Creative Blueprint" Masterclass to Empower Women in Nigeria’s Creative Economy

Funke Akindele hosts the second Creative Blueprint Masterclass, empowering women in film and music with mentorship and financial investment strategies.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 30, 2026, 8:52 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Leadership

Intentionality as a Catalyst for Professional Success

Funke Akindele, the visionary behind some of Nollywood’s highest-grossing cinematic releases, has underscored that professional advancement is a product of deliberate action rather than luck. Speaking at the second edition of "The Creative Blueprint Masterclass," Akindele shared her philosophy that "growth does not happen by chance; rather, it is built with intentionality." The masterclass was designed to provide women with the strategic roadmap she lacked during her early years in the entertainment industry. By sharing her journey—once rife with uncertainty and a lack of clear guidance—Akindele aims to bridge the access gap for the next generation of female creatives in film, music, and fashion.

The Multi-Sectoral Reach of the Creative Blueprint

The 2026 edition, themed "Giving Today, Gaining Tomorrow," expanded its scope to address the holistic needs of the modern creative professional. The event facilitated diverse sessions, including a "Women Creating Opportunities in Film" panel featuring industry heavyweights Osas Ighodaro, Ruth Kadiri, Jade Osiberu, and Ladun Awobokun. Beyond the screen, the masterclass delved into the music industry with a session titled "Music: More Than Talent," featuring insights from singer Niniola and Mavin Global’s Rima Tahini-Ighodaro. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that participants receive a comprehensive understanding of the business structures underlying various creative circles.

Strategic Mentorship and Peer Advocacy

A significant portion of the masterclass was dedicated to the nuances of mentorship. Mojisola Hunponu-Wusu, President of Woodhall Capital, highlighted that effective mentorship is about "preparation and positioning," noting that a mentor's role is to see beyond a mentee's current circumstances. Filmmaker Jade Osiberu added a practical dimension to this, defining mentorship as the simple yet powerful act of "speaking up for others." She recounted how veteran actress Joke Silva advocated for her when a loan proposal was initially rejected, urging participants to start showcasing their talents in their immediate communities and social media to attract similar advocates.