Nigeria’s creative industry is gaining fresh momentum, with initiatives like the Mikano Changan Creators Challenge reflecting growing youth innovation and digital platforms in shaping new opportunities for emerging talent.
What began as a social media entry has evolved into a defining moment for Nigerian content creators, opening new pathways within the country’s fast-growing creative industry.
To support creativity and talent, Mikano Motors recently championed an initiative created to recognise and invest in Nigeria’s growing community of digital creators.
The challenge was designed with a clear intention to create a platform where young creatives are seen, heard, and rewarded for their originality, effort, and storytelling.
Creators were tasked with showcasing their creativity and ideas around MikanoChangan Cars. Across weeks of participation, they expressed their voices, perspectives, and ideas, turning everyday creativity into meaningful expression.
After a series of intense selection of winners, the contestants were shortlisted and the winner was chosen by a panel of notable judges including Bovi Ugboma, Doris Ogah, Chioma Ude, Joelle Haykal represented by Syam Abdul Kadir, and Oluseyi Asurf Amuwa, whose experience and perspective helped shape a fair and thoughtful selection process.
The grand finale hosted at Mikano Motors showroom in Victoria Island, Lagos, brought together Mikano executives, creators, industry leaders, media professionals, and notable personalities for a moment that went beyond competition.
Chibundu Victor Chisom emerged as the overall winner and was awarded the grand prize, a brand new Mikano Changan CS35 car marking not just a win, but a recognition of his creative journey.
The vehicle also comes with a 6-year warranty and nationwide after-sales support, reflecting long-term value and reliability.
In the company’s commitment to the creative economy, Princess Tony Jessica Omusuku, the first runner-up, received a cash reward of N3 million, while Oluwamayowa Philip, the second runner-up, received a cash reward of N1.5 million.
In addition, the remaining top finalists were each awarded N500,000 in recognition of their dedication, consistency, and creative excellence throughout the challenge.
The event also featured a panel session with respected voices in the creative and media space, who shared insights on the importance of nurturing creativity, the evolving landscape of digital expression, and the role of platforms that create real opportunities for emerging talent.
Notable personalities from the entertainment and film industry, including Jemima Osunde, KieKie, Rita Dominic, and Patrick the Bassist, winner of the previous challenge, alongside the 19 shortlisted creators were also present.
Speaking at the event, Syam Abdul Kadir, national head of operations, Mikano Motors, reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to empowering the creative ecosystem, emphasising its belief in the value of creativity as a driving force for growth, expression, and opportunity.
Kadir noted that the main aim of the initiative is to support creators in their creative journey and enable them to grow exponentially.
The challenge stands as one of the ways Mikano continues to contribute meaningfully to society by investing in people, supporting talent, and creating opportunities where creativity can thrive.
It represented the company’s commitment to giving back, building pathways, opening doors, and recognising the individuals who are shaping the future through their creativity.
Speaking on the recognition, Chisom, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity, describing the moment as a meaningful recognition of their creativity and a reminder that when given the right platform, creativity can truly open doors.
He further expressed that Mikano and Changan’s support for content creators played a significant role in creating opportunities like this and encouraged other creators to stay consistent and continue pursuing their creative journey.
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