Canon Miraisha Partners with Debra’s Palace Initiative to Empower Young Boys Through Creative Skills.
The two-week Creative Summer School brought together 25 boys between the ages of 18 and 25 for an immersive learning experience that combined technical training, mentorship, and personal growth. Hosted at MADhouse by Tikera — a creative hub that supports emerging talent — the programme offered courses in photography, cinematography, content creation, sound production, graphic design, and editing. Each day balanced hands-on learning with meaningful conversations about leadership, discipline, and the choices that shape character.
At the heart of the collaboration was Canon Miraisha’s three-day Basic Photography Training, a workshop designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of photography through theory sessions, outdoor shoots, and project-based assignments. The session, led by Canon Certified Trainer Austen Udoh, brought together curiosity and creativity as the boys explored the art of visual storytelling for the first time.
Over the course of three days, participants learned the basics of aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, gained confidence shooting in manual mode, and enjoyed one-on-one practice sessions with Canon cameras. Their learning extended beyond the classroom with practical shoots in the University of Lagos and Bariga Market, where they captured everyday life through their own lens.
The final presentation day was a highlight — each participant shared his images and the stories behind them, in the presence of trainers, mentors, and proud parents. As one parent remarked, “I am amazed at how my child left home with no prior knowledge of photography, but seeing him today, I now believe in the power of creativity. I will do everything I can to encourage him to pursue this as a career if he wishes.”
To inspire excellence, Canon recognized two outstanding participants with Canon Selphy CP1000 printers, a token of encouragement for what promises to be bright futures.
For Canon Miraisha, this partnership reaffirmed its mission to empower African youth with practical, employable skills while nurturing a mindset of purpose and professionalism. For Debra’s Palace Initiative, it represented a continuation of its work in raising young men who can stand tall in both skill and integrity.
Damilola Chinedu, Founder of Debra’s Palace Initiative, captured the essence of the collaboration: “We believe every boy deserves the opportunity to develop his talent and grow into a man of vision, impact, and integrity. The Creative Summer School offers a safe, inspiring space where participants gain the skills and confidence to pursue their dreams. The partnership with Canon Miraisha allows us to prepare boys not just for careers, but for meaningful lives of leadership.”
That vision came alive through the boys themselves. One participant reflected, “The workshop has opened me up to so many possibilities. Now I know I can make a living even from school — thank you to Canon Miraisha and Debra’s Palace Initiative for this.” His words captured what the entire experience stood for — possibility, empowerment, and a renewed sense of direction.
Parents were not left out. Through dedicated engagement sessions, they were encouraged to support their sons’ creative interests and ensure that the skills learned during the programme become stepping stones toward sustainable futures. It was a reminder that true impact extends beyond the classroom — it begins at home and grows through community.
The Canon Miraisha x Debra’s Palace collaboration stands as proof that when creativity meets mentorship, transformation follows. Together, they are building more than photographers or filmmakers; they are shaping men of vision, impact, and integrity — young Africans ready to tell their stories, create opportunities, and inspire others.