Ms. Idara Adiakpan, the Special Assistant and Chief Photographer to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, has concluded plans to train photographers from the ebb of the profession as well as reward the creative ones during the Visual Conference and Awards 2025.
The Visual conference and Photography Award 2025, slated for Thursday 9 to Friday10 October at Vimpy Hotel, Uyo, will feature Photo and Art Exhibition; Expert-led Panel Sessions; Mentorship and Networking, and Visual Award Night.
This was made known during the pre-conference media briefing in Uyo on Tuesday October 7.
Speaking on the motivation behind the conference, Idara said she is engulfed with passion to empower, assist and bring out the best among young photographers in the state.
She recalled that her passion for photography had pushed her to seek professional knowledge in several places but argued that since most photographers may not have the wherewithal to do same, she is ready to bring experts down the state for young photographers to gain from their knowledge.
“We need to put photographers on track by exposing them to what is happening beyond Akwa Ibom State. Our first edition was in 2024. This year we are adding the photography award to celebrate the talented photographers.”
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“This year is visual conference and photography award. This is my way of giving back to photographers and the creative industry.”
“As the Special Assistant to Governor and Chief Photographer, I think there are so much I can do for people in my industry. Visual Conference is a way of giving back to my people. The conference is free.”
“Our creative industry is vast, and this initiative is to keep our creators informed, inspired, and connected to global trends in photography and visual storytelling,” Idara said.
Idara averred that the conference is designed to be an interactive platform where photographers can learn, collaborate, and build sustainable careers while recognising those who have created impact in the state and beyond.
This year’s Visual Conference and Awards will have the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno as Chief Host; Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hon. Hannatu Musa Musawa; Special Assistant to the President on Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Mr Ayo Adeagbo; Creative Photographer, Kelechi Amadi; Visual Artist, Creator Director, Emmanuel Oyeleke; and the Creative Director, PhotoFreak, Eduwem Ukpong.
