The Nigerian creative and media space is currently buzzing with many young Nigerians showcasing their skills and talents in photography, content creation, and social media marketing among others.

One of such creative mind is Olamilekan Olakunle Caston-Dada. Olamilekan is the CEO and Creative Director of iKrea8 Creative Studios and the lead photographer of HolarmilekanShotz. A photographer, graphic designer and UI/UX expert, his journey into the creative world started 5 years ago, and he’s been working hard to carve a niche for himself with his artistic process. 

Speaking about his foray into the creative industry, “I started as a Graphic Designer and later transited to Motion Graphics and UI/UX. After I graduated from Orange Academy, I had a brief internship at Kayode Olowu’s One Wild Card and later at Steve Babaeko, led X3M Ideas where I was lucky to be tapped for the X3M’s prestigious IGNITE internship training after which I was fully employed. However, I discovered advertising was not what I wanted to do and opted out to pursue my photography dream. Funny enough, I self-tutored myself in photography by taking online classes and later learned more from friends who are professional photographers”.  

The Japa syndrome

Sharing his thoughts on the current wave among Nigerian Youths, the japa syndrome,

“Despite the myriad of problems Nigeria is going through, there are still opportunities that abound in the country for those who can look deeper into the chaos. Many young Nigerians are making it legally, especially in the Creative and Tech Space, against all the odds. Though there are several challenges faced by young entrepreneurs in the country, especially when it comes to infrastructure and funding, one can still find his way around it. For me, you can Japa to gain more knowledge and experience, but Nigeria is where the money is, this is why you see many people who have gone but are back and are now cashing out in the country. The land is not always greener on the other side, so before you Japa, have concrete plans. The Nigerian entertainment industry is growing rapidly and any smart young creative mind needs to exploit all the opportunities it presents”.

Within his short entry into the industry, he has covered the prestigious Ojude Oba Festival, Trace TV Live, Greenland Carnival, Lagos Mainland Block Party, and the behind-the-scenes of Adekunle Gold ft Falz “Who Go Pay” music video production among many others.

Olamilekan whose role models in the industry include Kayode Olowu, Steve Babaeko, Sola Animashaun and Kelechi Amadi-Obi stated,

“I have several certifications, but I’m currently working on going back to school to get a degree in Business and also more training to improve my photography and design skills. My ultimate dream is to be one of the best photographers and content creators in Africa”.