Capturing Strength: Celebrating International Women’s Day Through Canon’s Miraisha Programme

In line with the 2025 International Women’s Day theme, "Accelerate Action," Canon Central & North Africa empowered the next generation of female visual storytellers by hosting photography workshops in Lagos and Nairobi, as part of its Miraisha programme. These workshops aimed to inspire and support women aged 18 to 35 from underserved communities, equipping them with essential photography skills and exploring career opportunities within the industry. Led by Canon Certified Trainers, Valerie Oguchi in Nigeria and Georgian Goodwin in Kenya, the workshops provided hands-on training in the fundamentals of photography, including composition, lighting, and storytelling.

The initiative focused on building technical skills, creative development, and supporting young women in exploring career opportunities within the industry. Through the Miraisha programme, Canon reinforces its commitment to developing local talent across Africa by offering access to industry-relevant education.

Living the Kyosei Spirit

Canon organised these photography workshops to expand access to professional skills training for young women from local communities. This initiative is aligned with Canon’s corporate philosophy of Kyosei — the belief that all people, regardless of background, should live and work together for the common good. Recognising the barriers that limit women's participation in the creative economy, Canon uses its technology and expertise to promote inclusive growth and long-term career development.

"While the Miraisha Programme has always been about building skills and creating opportunities for Africa’s vibrant pool of young talent, this special initiative for International Women’s Day allowed us to shine a spotlight on the incredible potential of women in the creative industry. By providing hands-on training and mentorship, we aimed to not only equip these young women with technical skills, but also to inspire confidence and ambition. This is the kind of meaningful action that drives progress — and embodies Canon’s Kyosei philosophy of working together for the common good." Said Somesh Adukia, Managing Director, Canon Central & North Africa

Meet the Mentors: Valerie's and Georgina's Journeys

Valerie and Georgina are professional photographers and trainers for Canon, each with their unique style. Valerie broke through barriers in a male-dominated industry in West Africa, starting her career with few resources. She says, “I started with an iPhone 6 and worked in my living room. You don’t need a big studio to start; just start where you are with what you have.” Her perspective as a woman in the industry, especially working with cosmetic and makeup brands, allows her to connect with her clients and their customers on a deeper level. She believes photography is a powerful form of empowerment for women, allowing anyone, regardless of their background, to express themselves and succeed.

Georgina brings over two decades of experience to her role as a trainer at Canon. Her work spans across Africa, from conflict zones to conservation areas. “Photography is not just about capturing what we see; it’s about preserving what we feel,” she says. She strives to capture female strength in all its forms, focusing women's resilience, courage, and quiet determination. “Whether it’s a mother protecting her child or a community leader shaping the future, I want my images to reflect their true essence,” she comments.

Breaking Barriers with One Click

The IWD Miraisha workshops in Nigeria and Kenya welcomed young women united by a shared curiosity to learn and grow. Participants came from various backgrounds, including bustling city outskirts and informal settlements. For many, it was their first experience handling a DSLR camera. By the end of the sessions, they were confidently capturing portraits, experimenting with natural light, and expressing their stories through photography.

The workshops provided personalised instruction, with trainers ensuring each participant felt supported and empowered. Attendees explored various photography styles, from highlighting the beauty of nature to creating dynamic product shots. The experience was transformative, not only teaching practical skills but also serving as a powerful platform for self-expression and personal growth.

More than just a workshop, the initiative reflected Canon’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for all women, irrespective of their background or prior experience, and upholding inclusivity in the creative industry.

Canon’s Ongoing Impact

These workshops are just one example of Canon’s long-term commitment to education, digital literacy, and career access across Africa. As part of its ongoing investment in training the next generation of creative professionals, Canon is dedicated to equipping women with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in an evolving digital landscape.

Canon’s vision goes beyond teaching photography; it’s about empowering individuals to utilise digital tools to transform their lives and communities. Through initiatives like these, Canon continues to support inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital age.