The Days I Chose to Show Up — Day Four: Reflections on Creativity, Professionalism, and Growth

Reflections on Creativity, Professionalism, and Growth

By Olayide Juliana

Attending the Kwara Create Workshop was such an enriching and inspiring experience for me. It wasn’t just an event; it was an opportunity to learn, reflect, and deepen my understanding of what it really means to do creative work with purpose and professionalism.

One of the things that stood out most was seeing the level of support that exists for the creative industry at both the federal and state levels. Hearing from the Special Assistant to the President on Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy really opened my eyes. He spoke about structured programs like the Creative Leap Accelerator and the Creative Development Fund, and he reframed Intellectual Property not just as something to protect legally, but as an asset—something with real strategic value that deserves to be properly developed and safeguarded.

Another big theme was the importance of professionalism. There was a strong emphasis on ethical practice, clear client agreements, and respect for ownership rights. It reminded me that these aren’t just formalities but essential foundations for trust and reputation. It’s something I want to be more intentional about in my own work—ensuring that whatever I do is clear, respectful, and of high quality.

I was also deeply struck by the conversations about service, humility, and collaboration. One speaker said, “You have to follow to lead,” and that really stayed with me. It reminded me of the importance of listening to those with experience, valuing teamwork, and building genuine community. For me, it’s a call to stay open to feedback, foster meaningful collaborations, and maintain a learning mindset while still delivering on our goals.

The practical workshops on photography and cinematography were also very valuable. Beyond the technical skills, they encouraged us to think strategically about how personal projects can become sustainable income streams—through licensing, sales, or attracting the right clients. It was a clear reminder of the need for a commercial mindset even when our goals are mission-driven. For me, that means planning carefully, showcasing our strengths clearly, and telling our stories in ways that truly connect with people.

Another important takeaway was the need to embrace technology. From AI tools to advanced editing software, staying current is no longer optional—it’s essential. It’s about keeping our work relevant, efficient, and professional. I’m motivated to keep learning and finding new ways to integrate these tools into how I work.

Overall, attending the Kwara Create Workshop was truly enriching. It broadened my understanding of both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with creative work. It has given me practical ideas and a renewed commitment to approach my projects with integrity, planning, collaboration, and professionalism. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned to produce even stronger, more engaging, and impactful work.

My name is Olayide Juliana, a steward.
I believe that light shed, knowledge shared, and beliefs reviewed can make both me and the world better.

P.S. I am happy to publish Day 4's write up. Watch out for the last episode, Day 5

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