Photo Credit Thompson and BEKKMAAF
From Niels Bartels, ANA Travel & Arts Editor, London
On 25th May, the Bernie Grant Arts Centre in London became a vibrant crossroads of imagination and industry as BEKKMAAF hosted its event “Creativity Meets Business”.
The event brought together artists, entrepreneurs and innovators.
Speakers at the event were Pariss Sailsman, Founder & Business Consultant, Prince Adenola Adegbesan, Founder of InspireCraft Global, and Creator of the InspireEdge AI Platform as well as Saviour Okusenogu, Creative Director at Studio SDK.
“Creativity meets Business” drew a diverse audience from across the London’s cultural and commercial sectors, all eager to engage in conversations about innovation and the evolving role of creativity in business.
BEKKMAAF curated a programme that included panel discussions, live demonstrations, networking sessions, interactive workshops and as well a short fashion show.
Panellists unpacked the challenges faced by artists and creative entrepreneurs, from funding gaps to the pressures of digital visibility. They also offered practical strategies for building sustainable careers—whether through diversifying income streams, leveraging technology or forming strategic partnerships.
Another highlight was a series of live showcases featuring creators who have successfully merged artistic vision with entrepreneurial drive. These presentations demonstrated how innovation often emerges at the intersection of disciplines: for example fashion designers collaborating with tech developers.
ANA reporter, Niels Bartels attended the event and conducted a brief interview with BEKKMAAF founder Marian Boateng
AfricaNewsAnalysis: Since how long have you been organising such events?
Marian Boateng: I have been organising corporate events for about 4 years now. Prior to that I use to hold community & Christian youth events in London. I also enjoy organising and planning weddings and social events.
AfricaNewsAnalysis: What was so far the “biggest highlight?”
Marian Boateng: Biggest highlight has been creating a space through our network marketing events where real and genuine business relationships and collaborations are formed.
Our events creates a “no competition or gatekeeping” space where entrepreneurs, creatives and professionals across industries and diverse backgrounds are given the opportunity to learn & unlearn about entrepreneurship.
AfricaNewsAnalysis: What is the goal? What motivates you to organise the events?
Marian Boateng: What motivates me is the ability to give start-ups & smaller brand the brand visibility and skillset needed to thrive in their individual business/ niche. And to also connect lives through communication and community building.
AfricaNewsAnalysis: How many participants do normally attend your events?
Marian Boateng: We curate memorable niche networking events so we aim to cater for about 40-50 entrepreneurs across the board per event
All Photos Credit: Thompson and BEKKMAAF
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