News

Canon Launches New “Visionaries” Series to Promote Inspiring African Voices – Featuring Kenyan Environmentalist Nzambi Matee , Nigerian Comedian Alibaba, And Couturier Hany El-Behairy from Egypt

Canon’s (Canon-CNA.com) new interview video series puts the spotlight on pioneering voices of Africa, who are challenging stereotypes and ushering in a new era of change; The series features visionaries from Kenya, Nigeria and Egypt and offers a glimpse into the challenges and successes faced by them in their inspiring journeys; Shot on the EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS C70 cameras, the series will provide a powerful platform to celebrate the talent and achievements of everyday people, who have emerged as icons of their generation.

Canon Central & North Africa (CCNA), a provider of imaging technologies and services is proud to announce the launch of its ‘Visionaries’ interview video series across Africa. The series will serve as a powerful platform to promote and celebrate the achievements and impact of everyday people across Africa, who have pushed boundaries and emerged as distinct voices of their generation. There is a tremendous wealth of talent and countless examples of pioneering excellence across Africa and through the ‘Visionaries’ video series, Canon will put the spotlight on those African voices, who are ushering in a new era of change. All the interviews have been shot in documentary style on the game changing EOS R5, EOS R6 and EOS C70 and are supplemented by a special Director’s testimonial that grants aspiring filmmakers and content creators, access to how the interviews were filmed.

The African Visionaries Are:

Kenyan entrepreneur and environmentalist Nzambi Matee, has made Kenya proud by being recognized as a leader in the global quest of sustainability by taking a powerful stand to combat the challenge of plastic waste. She is a pioneer in recycling plastic waste into low-cost durable plastic bricks, that are stronger than concrete and can be used to construct affordable houses. She also has the distinct honor of being awarded the ‘Young Champion of the Earth 2020 Africa’ (https://bit.ly/3Motnb9) by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for her innovative solution.

Nigerian stand-up comedian and entertainer, Ali Baba Akpobome is a household name who has been credited with changing the face of Nigerian comedy. As the most awarded comedian in Nigeria, Ali Baba is associated with bringing Nigerian comedy into the limelight and elevating what it means to be an entertainer. Overcoming many obstacles in his way, Ali Baba shows us how perseverance, dedication and hard work contributed to his rise to the top.

Egyptian couturier Hany El-Behairy, is Egypt’s most famous and sought-after fashion designer, who is renowned for his haute couture creations and use of luxurious fabrics and embellishments. Hany has made history by custom designing the world’s most expensive wedding dress, estimated at US $15 million and is a favorite amongst celebrities and stars, including celebrated actress, Yousra El Lozy.  Along his journey to success, Hani broke many social and cultural stereotypes to emerge as an inspiration for others.

‘Canon is synonymous with being visionary, bold and innovative and we are committed to continuing this legacy, by showcasing inspirational individuals who are driven by the same values, in their quest to challenge stereotypes and re-imagine what is possible. Africa is a continent that is dominated by change-makers and we want to offer them a platform where they can share their own stories, in their own words, to inspire a next generation of leaders. Nothing is impossible when you have determination, will power and the ambition to succeed and we are proud to be able to share the unique and inspiring stories of Nzambi, Alibaba and Hany,’ said Mai Youssef, Corporate Communications and Marketing Services Director – Canon Middle East, Turkey and Central and North Africa.

Africa is a continent that is dominated by change-makers and we want to offer them a platform where they can share their own stories, in their own words, to inspire next generation

The campaign was filmed using three of Canon’s revolutionary cameras: The EOS C70 camera, which is Canon’s first RF Mount Cinema EOS camera and also boasts the smallest and lightest body in the EOS system. The EOS R5, which is the first pro-level full-frame mirrorless camera able to record in 8K RAW and deliver 45-megapixel stills, and the EOS R6 camera, which is an incredibly versatile camera, able to film in 4K resolution and shoot 20.1 megapixels stills.

All interviews are accompanied by a special Behind the Scenes (BTS) segment with three Director’s testimonials, where they share professional advice on how each of the videos were created:

John Wambugu was able to achieve his artistic goal of bringing Nzambi Matee’s inspiring story to life with the help of a diverse range of dynamic, close-up and wide-angle shots using the exceptional RF 50mm F1.2 L USM and RF 28-70mm F2 L USM lenses.

Daniel Ehimen takes us inside the world of Alibaba and show-business with his Canon EOS C70 and shares the tips and tricks of how to maximize the different capabilities, modes and functions of the exceptional cinema camera, as well as the RF lenses.

Gregor Amon takes us behind the glitz, glamour and fast-paced action that went into Hani El-Behairy’s fashion show. Supported by his RF and EF lenses, Gregor shares his professional advice and insider knowledge for filmmaking on the go, in a fast-paced environment.

The series can be viewed here! (https://bit.ly/3MmYh3Q)

For further information on Canon North Africa, please visit here! (https://bit.ly/3LhAnoZ)

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

You may also like

Business Culture Economy

MOPPETS CEO Roberta Edu Declares Spar Market the Undisputed Champion of Nigerian Retail—Here’s Why!

post-image

 

Roberta Edu, the visionary CEO of MOPPETS, Nigeria’s pioneering indigenous baby formula brand, has just dropped a bombshell revelation: Spar Market isn’t just another supermarket—it’s the Harvard of retail operations in Nigeria. And if you’re in the business of selling products, you’d better take notes.

In an electrifying endorsement that’s sending shockwaves through the retail sector, Edu didn’t just praise Spar—she crowned them the undisputed kings of automation, efficiency, and supplier satisfaction. Forget Shoprite, forget the rest—when it comes to seamless operations, Spar is playing chess while others struggle with checkers.

“Certified by Spar or Bust!” – Why Every Supermarket Should Bow to Spar’s Genius

Edu’s message was clear: If you’re launching a supermarket chain and want a winning team, poach Spar’s talent. In fact, she boldly declared that every Nigerian retailer—from the biggest giants to the smallest corner stores—should stand in a straight line and beg Spar for lessons.

“Spar should issue…

Read More
Business Culture Economy Tourism Travels

Discover Drinks.ng: Anambra’s Hidden Gem for Luxury and Vibes

post-image

 

There’s a place in Onitsha that changes everything you thought you knew about Anambra’s social scene. The moment you step into Drinks.ng, you feel it – that electric energy of a space designed for those who appreciate the finer things. The sleek modern interior, the expertly crafted cocktails, the impressive selection of premium spirits displayed like works of art – this isn’t just a bar, it’s a destination.

What makes Drinks.ng special isn’t just what’s in your glass (though trust me, their mixologists are artists). It’s the atmosphere – the kind of place where business deals get sealed with a clink of crystal tumblers, where friends celebrate milestones with champagne showers, and where every visit feels like an occasion. The attention to detail here would impress even the most discerning connoisseur, from the temperature-controlled wine storage to the knowledgeable staff who can recommend the perfect pairing for your mood.

But here’s…

Read More
Business Economy

NASENI and Caverton Helicopters Launch Training of Female staff on UAV

post-image

 

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and Caverton Helicopters have commenced the second batch of training for 10 selected female engineers and scientists from NASENI system-wide in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) technology.

 

The six-week training program, which kicked off on Monday 7th of April 2025 at Caverton’s training school in Ikeja, Lagos, is part of the NASENI-Caverton, (NASCAV) ongoing partnership agreement to strengthen the aviation mandate of NASENI.

 

The training is a key component of the SHEFLY project, a pioneering initiative by the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, aimed at empowering rural women to leverage drone technology for precision farming and increased agricultural yields, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

In his remarks, Dr. Abayomi Okesola, the team Lead NASCAV project, who spoke on behalf of NASENI management, welcomed the trainees to the epoch training exercise with CAVERTON, citing them…

Read More
Announcements Business Economy News Society Technology Technology Trends Telecoms

NCC Launches Groundbreaking Protection for Nigerians’ Unused Airtime, Introduces 12-Month Recovery Window

post-image

 

In a historic move for Nigeria’s telecom sector, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today announced sweeping reforms that will safeguard millions of naira in unused airtime from disappearing when phone lines are deactivated. The bold new protections, unveiled during a national stakeholder forum, represent the most significant consumer rights advancement in Nigeria’s digital age.

Speaking at the virtual gathering, Mrs. Chizua Whyte, NCC’s Head of Legal & Regulatory Services, painted a vivid picture of the human impact behind the policy shift. “We’re talking about market women who save for weeks to buy airtime, students rationing credit for online classes, and entrepreneurs depending on every naira for their business communications,” she said. “These aren’t just numbers on a balance sheet—they’re the lifeblood of Nigeria’s digital economy.”

The centerpiece of the new framework gives subscribers an unprecedented 12-month window to reclaim unused airtime after their line is deactivated, a dramatic departure…

Read More
Business Culture Economy

NCC Introduces Progressive Guidelines to Protect Subscribers’ Unused Airtime

post-image

 

In a bold move to safeguard telecom consumers, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has unveiled a draft regulatory framework ensuring that subscribers can reclaim unused airtime on deactivated lines—a first-of-its-kind policy in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

Empowering Subscribers

The proposed guidelines prioritize consumer rights by:

  1. Guaranteeing 12-Month Recovery Window: Subscribers can reclaim unutilized airtime within one year of line deactivation, preventing unnecessary losses.
  2. Banning Monetization, Promoting Service Benefits: While cash refunds remain restricted, users will have flexible service options (data, calls, SMS) to utilize their balances.
  3. Transparent Audits: Operators must conduct detailed audits of inactive lines and submit reports to the NCC, ensuring accountability.
  4. Mandatory Consumer Awareness: Telecom companies must notify users via SMS, websites, and multilingual campaigns about their rights under the new policy.

NCC’s Pro-Consumer Stance

The Commission’s draft addresses longstanding gaps in the sector, where inactive subscribers often lose unused airtime without recourse. By adopting global best practices while tailoring…

Read More
Announcements Business Technology Technology Trends Telecoms

NCC Opens National Conversation on Unclaimed Recharges, Says “Consumers Must Not Be Left Behind”

post-image

 In what many are describing as a bold step toward consumer-centric reform in Nigeria’s telecom space, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today convened a virtual stakeholder forum focused on the growing concern of unclaimed prepaid airtime balances—a topic that has sparked debates across boardrooms, consumer circles, and policy spaces.

The event, which attracted major players from telecom companies, consumer advocacy groups, regulators, and tech analysts, was opened with a welcome address by the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, delivered on his behalf by the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, Ms. Rimini Makama.

In his heartfelt message, Dr. Maida didn’t mince words about the urgent need to find clarity and fairness in how dormant prepaid balances are handled, especially as mobile communication continues to define life…

Read More
Announcements Business Culture Economy Opinion Society

Tributes Pour In as Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe Remembers Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie: “A Legend Ascends to the Ecclesiastical Heavens”

post-image

As tributes continue to flood in over the passing of Nigerian banking titan and business statesman, Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie (PGD), one particularly moving homage came from Professor Ndubuisi Ekekwe—renowned entrepreneur, inventor, and founder of Tekedia Institute—who described PGD as “a legend who departs the solid bounds of the earth to the ecclesiastical heaven.”

In an emotionally rich reflection, Prof. Ekekwe recounted personal memories, moments of transformation, and the remarkable legacy left behind by the late founder of Diamond Bank. His words painted a vivid portrait of Dr. Dozie as not only a pioneer of African banking but a compassionate leader who elevated countless young Nigerians.

“A legend departs from the solid bounds of the earth to the ecclesiastical heaven,” Prof. Ekekwe wrote, “where cymbals, tapestries and flutes, with cherubic melodies, welcome a man who raised…

Read More
Business Security Society Software Technology Technology Trends

Cyber criminals bypass code of ethics with concerted attacks on the world’s healthcare sector 

post-image

South Africa’s healthcare sector weakened by underfunding, lack of skills and fragmented infrastructure

Johannesburg, South Africa April 7, 2025 – “There was a time when cybercriminals held off from attacking the world’s healthcare institutions for reasons of ethics.  But no more,” says Shayimamba Conco, Cyber Security Expert at Check Point Software Technologies, a global leader in cyber security solutions. Conco comments come ahead of World Health Day on Monday April 7, 2025.

 

During the first three months of this year, Check Point Research has reported that the healthcare and medical industry experienced an average of 2,309 weekly attack attempts per organisation. This is an increase of 39% compared to the same timeframe last year.

 

Figures issued in a separate Check Point Threat Intelligence Report over the last six months show that a South African healthcare organisation is attacked on average 1626 times per week.

  Read More