Sterling Bank proudly announces its continued collaboration with the Book Buzz Foundation for the 11th edition of the Ake Arts and Books Festival, scheduled from November 22nd to 24th, 2023, in Ikeja, Lagos.
This partnership reinforces Sterling Bank’s steadfast commitment to community investment and enriching lives within the areas it serves. The bank firmly believes that its prosperity is intertwined with the well-being of the communities it operates in.
Maurice Igugu, Chief Marketing Officer of Sterling Bank, emphasized the bank’s ongoing dedication to five pivotal sectors—Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation (HEARTS). He stated, “Through strategic investments in education, we aim to empower communities with knowledge, enabling them to combat poverty and elevate their standards of living.”
READ ALSO : Polaris Bank deepens promotion of SMEs in Nigeria
Founded by director Lola Shoneyin, the Ake Festival plays a pivotal role in nurturing the creativity of young individuals, fostering their growth. Sterling Bank remains committed to supporting the festival, contributing to the promotion of creativity and community development.
The 2023 festival will explore the theme of “Blood Ties,” delving into concepts of family, love, relationships, loss, and togetherness. This theme signifies the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and promoting a diverse range of voices and perspectives.
Expressing gratitude for the partnership with Sterling Bank and Luminate, Lola Shoneyin highlighted the festival’s goal of celebrating creativity while facilitating discussions that empower youth. She introduced The Africa Rights Forum, aiming to train agents and editors in sub-Saharan Africa to navigate the global rights market, enabling African publishers to establish a presence in the global marketplace.
Attendees can anticipate stimulating panel discussions featuring some of Africa’s foremost thinkers. Shoneyin mentioned, “This year, we have eight incredible panel discussions with some of Africa’s brightest minds. Everyone leaves Ake Festival feeling enriched.”
Moreover, the festival will feature in-depth interviews with a diverse array of writers from Africa and beyond, exploring their themes, memorable characters, and the captivating worlds they create for readers.
The collaboration between Sterling Bank and the Ake Arts and Books Festival underscores the shared commitment to fostering creativity, empowering communities, and embracing diverse narratives for a more enriched society.
