THE AFRICA CENTER STUDIO: WOMEN'S CREATIVE EXCHANGE

The global creative economy presents both extraordinary opportunities and complex challenges for African women in the cultural and creative industries. On one hand, African aesthetics, stories, and innovations are increasingly influencing global trends, driving demand for new voices, new visions, and new markets. On the other hand, persistent barriers around access to capital, networks, infrastructure, and representation continue to limit full participation and ownership. 

As the world begins to recognize the value of creativity as a powerful economic and social force, it is critical that African women are not only included but positioned to lead. The Africa Center Studio: Women’s Creative Exchange and Fund is designed to meet this moment, offering connection, visibility, and support to women shaping the future of Africa’s creative industries at home and across the Diaspora.

The Africa Center Studio: Women’s Creative Exchange is a series of monthly virtual workshops taking place between July and November 2025 hosted by The Africa Center, New York City. Sponsored by Mastercard Foundation, the initiative is designed to uplift and support West African women creatives and entrepreneurs through purpose-driven learning experiences that will enhance their business acumen and financial power. In addition to the workshops, three participants with businesses or a business plan will be selected to receive an investment of  2000 USD each after attending 3 out of 5 workshops and submitting an article addressing:

1) The main challenges and opportunities African women entrepreneurs face working within the African creative economy. 2) The key takeaway you learned from attending the workshops and how an investment will positively impact your business. Submissions should be made to policy@theafricacenter.org no later than November 10, 2025 at 5 PM WAT. 

In addition to submitting a written answer to the prompt, participants must tag @theafricacenter on Instagram in a 30 second to 1 minute video sharing their experience and what they learned by participating in the Women’s Creative Exchange.

Participants without established businesses or a business plan to submit will have the opportunity to earn a certificate for attending all 3 out of 5 workshops. 

Requirements for Participation: 

-Must be a West African woman 

-Residing on the continent or diaspora 

-Ages 18-40  

Click the registration link for FAQS, workshop titles and deadlines.