The Cannes Lions 2025 International Festival of Creativity, scheduled from June 16 to 20 in Cannes, France, serves as the premier global event for the creative communications industry. This year, the festival introduces several new initiatives, including the LIONS Creators program, which offers digital-first content creators tailored tools and insights. Attendees can anticipate a dynamic lineup of speakers from leading brands such as Apple, Duolingo, McDonald’s, and Reckitt, alongside cultural changemakers like Jon M. Chu and Serena Williams. The festival promises unparalleled networking opportunities, immersive learning experiences, and a showcase of the world’s most innovative and impactful creative work.
Among the standout sessions this year is “Cracking the Code with African Creators”, led by the trailblazing Woof Studios Africa. It marks a historic moment: not just for the creatives on stage, but for the entire continent. As Woof Studios puts it, “This is more than a panel. This is visibility. Access. Proof that Africa isn’t next… it’s now.”
Anchored by Adetutu Laditan, founder of Woof Studios and former Senior Marketing Manager for YouTube SSA, the session features a powerhouse collective of African podcasters and digital storytellers who are not just influencing culture—they’re reshaping it.
South African twins Innocent Sadiki and Millicent Mashile, known as the Centtwinz, bring their infectious energy and storytelling savvy to the panel. As award-winning TV presenters, actors, and producers, they’ve built a formidable brand that spans YouTube hits like I Have Been Through the Most and a community mentorship program that uplifts young women. Their story is proof of how podcasting and digital media can be both transformative and community-driven.
From Nigeria, Ifeyinwa Mogekwu of Ify’s Kitchen redefines food storytelling. A former lawyer turned culinary creator, Ify has built a global audience through her podcast, TV show, and digital cooking classes. Her work is a masterclass in using podcasting to bridge culture, cuisine, and identity—with over 7 million followers to show for it.
Mpoomy Ledwaba, also from South Africa, brings heartfelt authenticity through her Wisdom & Wellness platform. Her podcast is more than a conversation—it’s a movement, inspiring modern African women to embrace purpose, balance, and ambition in a digitally connected world.
Representing Ghana, Israel Derrick Apeti—known as Enil Art—fuses visual art and podcasting to explore deep societal issues. His raw, street-style portraits and emotionally charged narratives have earned him international acclaim. His story reminds us that podcasting isn’t limited to voice—it’s a medium for all forms of powerful expression.
Together, these creators represent a vibrant, multifaceted Africa: bold, unfiltered, and brimming with potential. Their presence at Cannes Lions 2025 is a testament to the global rise of African podcasters and storytellers—no longer waiting for permission or platforms, but building them.
Will you be attending the festival this year? Which speaker’s are you most excited to listen to? Share your thoughts in the comments below or send us a direct message on social media—and don’t forget to join our mailing list.
