Nigerians were among 25 young creatives selected for Google’s recent residency programme for those who identify with the alternative movement.
The alternative movement — colloquially known as the ‘alté movement’ — traces its roots to Lagos in Nigeria, where young Africans embrace the idea of being misfits or non-conformists.
The movement advocates unconventional self-expression in all aspects of life but mainly through music, fashion, and visual arts.
In a statement, Google said the event which was held in Nairobi, Kenya between June 28 and 30, was aimed at upskilling and celebrating young creatives.
It said alté creatives from Kenya, Ghana, Botswana, and South Africa also graced the event.
During the two-day event, the participants were taught various entrepreneurial skills on how they can enhance the visibility of their brands.
They were also taught how to further promote the alternative culture through platforms such as Google arts & culture, YouTube, and YouTubeShorts.
Speaking at the event, Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, communications and public relations manager for Google West Africa said, said the aim of the residency was to amplify the impact of the alté movement in Africa and the world.
“It’s exciting to see creators that identify as non-mainstream find community on our platform. This comes just a few days after we announced a call for applications for the YouTube Black Voices Fund for 2023 aimed at elevating marginalised voices,” Kola-Ogunlade said.
“We also want to showcase how products like YouTube and YouTube Shorts and platforms like Google Arts & Culture can help drive the culture forward.”
Copyright 2024 TheCable. All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from TheCable.
Follow us on twitter @Thecablestyle