What happens when some of the biggest names in entertainment, fashion, and nightlife come together? A movement is born.
In a bold move to reshape narratives and empower the next generation of creatives, Sunky O, lifestyle & nightlife curator and author of The Other Side of Midnight, led an insightful career initiative that brought together industry leaders to share their journeys, challenges, and triumphs.
Sunky O, DJ Consequence, Bolaji Ogunmola, Brown Inspired, Haiye Yinka, and HolarofLagos took the stage, delivering game-changing insights that shattered myths and redefined what success truly means in unconventional career paths.
The event, designed for students eager to break into creative industries, featured Haiye Yinka, a luxury lifestyle curator; DJ Consequence, a pioneer in Nigeria’s entertainment scene; Bolaji, an actress and storyteller; Holar of Lagos, creative visual storyteller and Brown Inspired, a celebrated fashion designer. Each speaker shared personal experiences, tackled misconceptions, and provided tangible advice for navigating the industry.
“We need to tell our own stories authentically. Too often, people judge industries from the outside, but real change happens when we engage, educate, and empower those who aspire to be part of it,”;; Sunky O shared passionately.
The atmosphere was charged from the moment students walked in, wide-eyed, eager, and ready to absorb wisdom from some of the industry’s finest. The conversations were raw, unfiltered, and absolutely necessary, tackling deep-seated misconceptions, breaking down barriers to opportunity, and revealing what it takes to build longevity in entertainment and lifestyle industries.
And for Sunky O, the heartbeat of the event, this wasn’t just about motivation, it was about transformation:
“Too many careers get dismissed because people don’t understand them. It’s time to change that narrative.”;;
Haiye Yinka, a force in luxury lifestyle curation, dropped a reality check:
“Lagos thrives on exclusivity, but the real power is in knowing how to create experiences people can’t resist.”;;
Bolaji Ogunmola, an actress who has navigated Nollywood’s complexities, left no room for illusions:
“Talent is just the beginning. Strategy, consistency, and knowing your worth are what sustain you. It is understanding the WHY”;;
DJ Consequence, a pioneer in nightlife entertainment, unveiled the business behind the beats:
“There’s an entire economy behind what people call ‘vibes.’ If you understand the business, you’ll never be left out.”;;
Fashion designer Brown Inspired made it clear that passion isn’t enough:
“Creativity is everywhere, but success comes to those who treat it like a business.”;;
The event’s structure kept the energy high—individual speaker sessions, panel discussions, and interactive Q&As, ensuring no moment was wasted. Every student left with something tangible, insights, clarity, and a strong sense of direction.
Shaping the Future: Beyond the Event
The Other Side of Midnight Career Initiative wasn’t just another industry event, it was a catalyst for change. The impact didn’t end when the last speaker left the stage; it sparked conversations that will redefine how young Nigerians approach careers in entertainment, fashion, and nightlife.
Students left with more than just inspiration; they left with actionable insights, connections, and a new perspective on what’s possible. Many spoke about how the event challenged societal norms, encouraging them to see opportunities where they once saw limitations.
As this movement grows, Sunky O and his peers are committed to making these conversations louder and more frequent. This is just the beginning—future editionspromise to bridge even more gaps, challenge outdated narratives, and elevate the next generation of Nigerian talent.
For young creatives who once felt unseen, unheard, or undervalued, this initiative delivers a powerful message: Your career is valid. Your dreams are possible. And success? It’s yours to define.
As the event wrapped up with pictures and conversations, it became evident that this was more than a gathering—it was a shift in perception, a redefinition of possibilities, and a call to action for the next generation of creatives.
