Theme: The Future We See

TEDxLagos is excited to partner with TED for its new initiative called TED Democracy. We are humbled to be the only TEDx event from the continent of Africa in collaboration with other TEDx events from Brazil, United States of America, Istanbul, Kazakhstan and Ukraine.

The TED Democracy Initiative launched this important conversation in November, 2023 and through this initiative is partnering with 7 TEDx events around the world — including TEDxLagos right here in Nigeria, Africa — to showcase, celebrate and inspire African governance experts, leadership trailblazers, innovators, dreamers and doers who will share remarkable ideas on our collaborative futures. This gathering will also focus on diverse conversations from technology, health, economy, fashion, artificial intelligence, food and many more.

As democracies worldwide face mounting challenges, communities across the globe are mobilizing to reform systems and reignite civic culture. TEDxLagos is excited to bring our nation’s voices together to spark a new kind of conversation with leading thinkers, practitioners, and communities around the globe – focused on realistic pathways towards a more vibrant and equitable future.

Think artificial intelligence, innovation, tech, digitisation, sustainability. Think the strides being made locally and globally and ask yourself where you belong in this future. As the world constantly evolves, what do you see?

With this theme, we’re challenging you to not only talk about the future but also be a part of building it. This June, we are bringing together an amazing line of speakers, performers and the best audience members who will not only spark conversations that will transform minds but also shed light on the future we see in our democracy, art, business, lifestyle, food and so much more!

We’re challenging you to ignite your spark and help create the future you see.

Glover Memorial Hall
Custom Street
Lagos Island, Lagos, 102273
Nigeria

Anil Atmaramani

Venture Builder

Anil Atmaramani is a visionary venture builder and investor with over two decades of transformative experience in startups across Canada and Africa. As the CEO of Kreem Management Advisory Services Ltd., he pioneers the "Venture Partner/Operating Partner as a Service" model, driving significant growth for prominent startups and funds. His leadership has empowered over 100 startups, cultivating a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Anil's entrepreneurial journey began with the founding of Dial2Dine in Toronto, where he revolutionized the food delivery service market. As a lead mentor for ARM Techstars (among other), Anil remains at the forefront of technological developments.

Confidence Staveley

Cybersecurity Executive

Confidence Staveley is a Cybersecurity Leader, Author, Talent Developer, International Speaker, and Inclusion advocate. She recently clinched the title of Cybersecurity Woman of the World 2023. Her previous recognitions span awards like the Cybersecurity Woman of the Year for both 2021 and 2022, a nod as the International Security Journal 2023 Influencer, a spot in the Top Cyber News 40 under 40 in Cybersecurity, and a ranking amongst the Top 50 Women in Cybersecurity Africa, etc. An alumna of globally renowned fellowships such as the 2021 Obama Foundation African Leaders and the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), Confidence's voice has echoed across over 120 global platforms, reflecting her expansive influence, and thought leadership. Beyond her advisory roles on various boards, Confidence Staveley is the driving force behind CyberSafe Foundation, a leading non-profit devoted to fostering a digitally inclusive and secure landscape in Africa.

DOTTi The Deity

Songwriter & Recording/Performing Artist

DOTTi The Deity is a leading voice among the latest crop of musical talents springing out of the buzzing music scene in Southwestern Nigeria. DOTTi The Deity is a dynamic and highly creative songwriter & recording/performing artist. Wielding his unique, strong, and skilled vocals, he is not scared to borrow from the sound of the "lost era" of Nigerian music to create a fresh and timeless sound. According to him, he makes music for the future inspired by the past. He hails from the ancient city of Ibadan and was born to Serifat, the second wife of Amusat Okeowo. He composed his first song at age six while playing at the dining table in his Grandfather's house. DOTTi The Deity acknowledges and believes his gift is from God and aspires to drive positive cultural change in the next generation through his music.

Femi Taiwo

Chief Technical Officer

Femi Taiwo has over 20 years of experience building Technology Solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa. He's the CTO at INITS, a Pan-African Tech Consulting Firm. that has developed and currently manages several mission-critical solutions used every day by thousands of people. He is a Google Developer Expert on Cloud, Certified Solutions Architect, Mentor, Co-organizer for GDG Lagos and DevFest (because he's passionate about the ecosystem); and a great guy to chat with about Engineering Practices, Scaling Infrastructure, User Engagement, or on Software Engineering generally.

Ibrahim Suleiman

Screen Actor

Ibrahim Suleiman is an architect, digital artist, voice and screen actor, choreographer, TV and event host, and broad spectrum creative. His body of work covers several feature films and TV series, voice work for documentaries, and TV and print commercials. He is creative director at I-Cubed Media and a partner at Studiopedia Ltd. As an architect, he is co-director at Deep-Space Inc. and also runs the digital art gallery SeekYouArt, where he exhibits and auctions his over 300 artworks as a self-taught digital artist. He is a loving husband and excellent father who is passionate about being present and hands-on in his family life. Ibrahim is passionate about working with the next generation to be better equipped for the future. He loves to laugh, travel, and spend time enjoying the creative process.

Kings and Queens Art Foundation

Cultural Dance Group

The Kings and Queens Art Foundation, a project of the Nbari Nbajo Art Center in Bariga, Lagos State, aims to create platforms that provide lasting solutions to the growing issue of street menace among children, teenagers, and youths in the Bariga community. By discovering and developing children through cultural and creative activities,the foundation has made significant strides in its mission. Despite the challenges, including the demolition of its studio during the Covid-19 pandemic, the foundation launched its monthly community rendezvous. This street theatre initiative, which began in Bariga, has expanded to the streets of Iwaya, Gbagada, Oworonsoki, and Makoko in Lagos. The performances, held in unconventional spaces, feature various plays and storytelling sessions, engaging both children and adults. The Nbari Nbajo Arts Centre has long focused on grassroots engagement, encouraging children to participate in after-school performing arts activities.

Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman

Actor, Producer and director,

Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman is an award-winning actor, producer, director, and undoubtedly one of Nigeria’s most loved onscreen sweethearts. She is best known for her role in the award-winning M-net television series “Tinsel”. She has made a smooth transition from television to the big screen, having starred in the award-winning movie “The Meeting”. She obtained a B.A. (Hons) Sociology from the University of Port Harcourt. Outstanding at her craft, Linda brings a versatile skill set to each project, enabling her to ease into several roles across genres. She has been featured in several blockbuster Netflix productions. As a producer, Linda recently co-produced Africa Magic's original movie “Logline”, she is also the producer and co-host for one of Africa’s top parenting podcasts, the “Due Parenting Podcast”. Beyond being on screen, Linda is also passionate about the work done off-screen. She is married to multi-talented actor Ibrahim Suleiman, and they host a parenting podcast (DUE)

Mahfuz Alabidun

Social entrepreneur and educationist

Mahfuz Alabidun is an inspiring social entrepreneur and educationist who has dedicated his life to making a positive impact in the lives of others, especially those who are less privileged. His work with the Inmates Educational Foundation, which he founded, is a testament to his commitment to providing educational opportunities for inmates and helping to reduce recidivism rates in Nigeria. Through the Inmates Educational Foundation, Mahfuz Alabidun has been able to provide educational materials, mentorship, and training programs to over 3,000 inmates in several prisons so far in Lagos, Ebonyi, Osun and Kano States Nigeria. He has also initiated various advocacy programs to raise awareness about the importance of education in rehabilitating and reintegrating inmates into society.

Niyi Fagbemi

Photographer

Niyi Fagbemi is a professional travel, fashion, lifestyle, and content brand dedicated to showcasing the beauty of Nigeria and Africa through high-quality videography, photography, and storytelling. His mission is to change the narrative about Africa by highlighting its diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities. Through engaging content, he aims to inspire others to explore, appreciate, and celebrate the richness of African life. One of his most viral videos last year garnered global recognition, with over 100 million views across all platforms. He believes in reshaping the narrative of Africa, one day at a time.

Olayiwola Isaac aka Layi Wasabi

Content Creator

Olayiwola Isaac popularly known as Layi Wasabi is an amazing talent with an uncanny gift for humour. He has taken social media by storm with his unique blend of wittiness, infectious energy and incredible genius. The 22 year old Osogbo born content creator, focuses the theme of his works on satirical presentation of everyday happenings in the society through mild humors and has gathered over 2million followers on Instagram. Layi, who has a penchant for developing funny, engaging and relatable content, has created a niche for himself with the special character of the Lawyer, dominant in most of his skits. In 2023, he won The Emerging Force category at the Trendupp Awards, The Revelation of the Year at the Nigeria Comedy Award and was also nominated for The Future Awards Africa Prize in Content Creation. Layi Wasabi recently won Best Digital Content Category at the prestigious Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2024.

Olu Akanmu

Business Leader

Olu Akanmu is an Executive in Residence at the Lagos Business School. He was President and Co- CEO of OPay-Nigeria, Nigeria’s largest Fintech platform with over ten million monthly active customers, five hundred thousand agents and more than five million micro, small and medium enterprises and merchants. During his tenure as President of OPay-Nigeria, monthly active user base grew by more than 300% over two years with commensurate transaction volume growth and one of the biggest impacts in the Nigeria financial inclusion ecosystem. He was also Executive Director- Retail Banking at First City Monument Bank, Chief Marketing Officer at Airtel, Managing Executive- Retail Banking at former BankPHB and General Manager- Consumer Marketing at MTN. Olu Akanmu is an experienced commercial and tech ecosystem leader with an un-usual diversity of experience in fintech, banking, telecommunications, FMCG and health-care industries, including last mile distribution and manufacturing.

Olufunke M. Olufon

Communications Executive

Olufunke Olufon is a communications expert with over 20 years of experience in strategic communications, public relations, and media relations across various sectors. Known for her compelling storytelling and strategic messaging, Olufunke engages audiences through keynote talks, panel discussions, workshops, and one-on-one coaching. She helps individuals and organizations in both the public and private sectors share their impactful stories, focusing on strategic communications, leadership development, and change management. Olufunke has held key roles in leading development organizations and philanthropies, demonstrating her passion for amplifying impact and helping global leaders improve their communication skills. She is also the author of a book on purposeful living, showcasing her dedication to inspiring and guiding others. Her commitment to clear communication helps individuals and organizations succeed in today's complex global environment.

Oswald Osaretin Guobadia

Oswald Osaretin Guobadia Managing Partner

Oswald Osaretin Guobadia is one of Africa’s foremost Digital Evangelists. A seasoned Business Transformation Expert with experience in helping organizations in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors drive operational excellence and revenue growth, as well as forge strategic partnerships whilst navigating complex business environments through a relentless focus on innovation within the African landscape. With close to three decades of robust experience spanning multi-million-dollar, large-scale infrastructure projects to trailblazing policy development that is shaping Africa’s promising digital landscape, Oswald continues to create value for stakeholders across borders and cultures.

Uche Ukonu Jnr.

Founder

Uche Ukonu Jnr is a food venture builder, operator and founder of smallChops.ng, a digital service that has been providing seamless access to deep-fried and grilled snacks for its users since 2016. He is a software engineer turned entrepreneur, with over a decade’s worth of experience identifying opportunities in problems, and leveraging technology to build scalable businesses out of their solutions. He holds an honours degree in Communications Engineering from Covenant University and multiple certifications in technology frameworks. He has built efficient operations by leveraging technology to optimise businesses in retail, food, construction, design, agriculture, education, technology, recycling and e-commerce for over 10 years. In that time, he built a $200k recycling plant, from location sourcing to export readiness, in 2 weeks. He also designed operationally-efficient recycling operations for companies across Liberia, Kenya, Ghana and Ethiopia.