The Lagos-based initiative, known for identifying and nurturing street-level talents, brought together young creatives from surrounding communities to showcase their skills across dance, music and visual arts. The event was designed to encourage self-expression, boost confidence and promote skills development among emerging talents.
Addressing participants and guests, the convener of the initiative, Sunday Iniobong Stephen, disclosed that over 60 contestants competed across the three categories. He described the turnout and level of performance as a strong indication of the depth of untapped talent within grassroots communities.
In the Dance category, Osuocha Dalinton clinched the top prize, while Unlimited Praise and Anunobi Miracle emerged as first and second runners-up respectively. Triumph secured first place in the Music category, with Unlimited Prize finishing as first runner-up and Benny Guesh taking third position. The Art category saw Gold Orema emerge winner, followed by Favor Chilasa and Ubuikejohn as first and second runners-up.
According to the organisers, winners received cash prizes of ₦20,000 for first place, ₦10,000 for first runner-up and ₦5,000 for second runner-up. Prize boards were presented to category winners, while all participants received certificates of participation.
The credibility of the competition was further strengthened by the presence of industry professionals on the judging panel. The Dance category was adjudicated by Barrister Ademoye Dorothy Ugonwa, a legal practitioner and Chairperson of the Guild of Nigerian Dancers. Mr Dotun Oluwa, Acting Head of Department, Fine Art and Applied Education at the Lagos State University of Education, assessed the Art category, while the Music category was judged by Mr Nwachukwu Jeremiah Ugonna, a music director, producer and coach.
The event also featured performances by guest artistes NG (Onyeukwu) and Obanla A1 Sound, adding to the entertainment and community engagement.
Iniobong noted that DAM Project 2.0 not only facilitated the discovery of new talents but also strengthened creative participation at the grassroots level within the Afromedia community.
The programme was organised by Inistic Multimedia Company, with support from partner organisations including Africa Food Store, One 18 Suit Hotel Ariviah, INKY and Series, among others.