Miraisha, a Canon programme developing skills in Africa has announced the scholarship of 10 African students as it marks ten years in existence.
Canon made the special announcement of awarding 10 scholarships to hand-picked students from across African nations including Nigeria, Kenya and Cameroon where the programme has been actively nurturing talent.
The scholarships will support a one-year course at prestigious institutions, including KCA University in Kenya, PEFTI Film Institute in Nigeria, and IFCPA/CRTV (Institut De Formation Et De Conservation Du Partrimoine Audiovisual) in Cameroon.
At the same event, Canon unveiled a coffee table book, which chronicles the journey of Miraisha from its inception to its status as a cornerstone of empowerment. This comprehensive journal showcased the outstanding work of trainers and students, highlighting success stories from the previous scholarship programme and offering an account of the last 10 years.
Speaking during the event, Kennedy Amungo, a beneficiary of the Miraisha training programme expressed his gratitudes to Canon recollecting his journey from training to employment has impacted both him personally and professionally.
“During the Canon-Miraisha training, I gained invaluable skills that helped me master the art of both photography and filmmaking. The program enabled me to work across various sectors of production, from freelancing to photojournalism in newsrooms and now as a wildlife photographer. The training shaped my understanding of visual storytelling. Miraisha also offered practical workshops on the business of photography, teaching me how to market myself as a creative, attract clients, and handle post-production. These insights were essential in preparing me for the job market and gave me a deeper understanding of industry trends,” Amungo said.
He went on to add that, “I have grown into a mentor, training upcoming photographers within my circle and guiding guests in the Maasai Mara on how to use cameras, giving them unforgettable experiences through photography. This journey has kept me mobile, allowed me to learn about different cultures, and brought me into rooms I never imagined I would be in.”
In alignment with Canon’s corporate philosophy of Kyosei, which means living and working together for the common good, the Miraisha Programme promotes job opportunities in Africa by providing workshops for photographers, videographers, filmmakers, and print business owners. The name ‘Miraisha’ is a fusion of Japanese and Swahili, symbolising the programme’s cross-cultural approach.
“By providing scholarships and launching the coffee table book, we continue to invest in the future of African photographers and filmmakers, ensuring their stories are told and their voices heard. This celebration is not just about reflecting on our past achievements but also about looking forward to a future filled with limitless possibilities for the talented individuals we support.” said Somesh Adukia, Managing Director of Canon Central and North Africa.
The CEO Kenya Film Commission Timothy Owase lauded Miraisha’s efforts in providing invaluable opportunities and resources to aspiring photographers and filmmakers across the continent.
“This programme has had an impact on photography and film makers in the country will also continue getting support from government. The film industry has been growing in leaps and bounds in the country and will not be ignored. This far, 25 Kenyan programmes run on international platforms such as Netflix.”
