The digital and creative economies in Africa continue to expand. While the continent’s digital economy is projected to grow six times by 2050 to over $700 billion, the creative artistic economy is especially explosive. According to UNESCO, Africa’s film and audiovisual industries alone could create 20 million jobs and generate $20 billion per year. Revenue from digital music streaming is expected to reach $500 million by 2025 for all of Africa, a five-fold increase since 2017, according to the World Bank. From Grammy-winning music to collectible artworks, African creatives are enriching global culture. Major entertainment companies are taking notice, and investors are backing the next generation of African artists. Our panelists will explore this vibrant new world and the opportunities it will offer. 

Moderator

Aubrey Hruby

Co-Founder, Tofino Capital; Senior Fellow, Africa Center, The Atlantic Council

Speakers

Mo Abudu

CEO, EbonyLife Group

Oluwatosin Ajibade

Grammy-Winning Artist and CEO, emPawa Africa and Choplife Ministries

Hannah O'Leary

Senior Vice President, Head of Modern and Contemporary African Art, Sotheby's

_ Osinachi

Artist and Co-Founder, AfrofutureDAO

Laolu Senbanjo

Visual Artist, Musician, Singer/Songwriter