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Meet Yemisi Mokuolu.
Meet Yemisi Mokuolu, the powerhouse creative business consultant, independent producer, and project manager with a knack for turning dreams into reality.
Based in the British coastal town of Worthing, creative business consultant Yemisi is the mastermind behind Hatch Ideas and its vibrant offshoot, Hatch Africa. Her mission? To support creative industries and social impact initiatives with a blend of basic business structures and a whole lot of heart.
Yemisi and I discussed her experiences in supporting creative industries and social impact initiatives, and reflected on Yemisi's recent experiences and future plans. Creating her fantasy cultural year proved a great way to get to know her better.
Yemisi's journey into the world of creative consultancy began with a clear vision: to help entrepreneurs discover their purpose and authenticity.
Armed with a wealth of experience and a passion for creativity, she set out to bridge the gap between creative talent and the business acumen.
Her work with government-funded programs across Africa laid the groundwork for what would become a beacon of support for countless innovators and pioneers.
In 2012, Yemisi launched Hatch Africa, a consultancy dedicated to nurturing creative industries across the continent. Recognising the immense potential of these industries to drive economic growth and social change, Hatch Africa set out to provide bespoke, high-quality consultancy and training. However, they faced a significant challenge: the lack of dedicated business development and financing options for projects requiring less than £5 million.
Undeterred by these hurdles, Yemisi and her team conducted extensive research on financing for Creative and Cultural Industries (CCIs) in Africa.
Their findings, published in a book chapter by King’s College London in 2020, highlighted the crucial need for better understanding and support in the investment processes.
This research became a cornerstone for Hatch Africa’s vision: to create a dedicated platform for incubation, investment, and impact.
Yemisi produces the AsaBeako festival in Ghana. Listen above to an exclusive mix by Sensie Lo from the festival in 2020.
Hatch Africa: Incubation, Investment, Impact
Hatch Africa's journey has been marked by perseverance and innovation. They have tirelessly worked to raise the profile of African creative content, providing entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Their efforts include business development and incubation programmes, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives.
One shining example of their success is the Adire Lounge in Nigeria, which empowers women and young girls with textile design skills. Through Hatch Africa’s support, this project has trained 250 women and now sells to 15 countries globally.
Yemisi’s vision extends beyond individual success stories. Hatch Africa has played a pivotal role in initiatives like the Adaya Lab programme, which supports the development of creative entrepreneurs in West Africa.
By fostering better understanding between investors and creatives, Hatch Africa is creating a more supportive ecosystem for the creative industries.
Yemisi also helped set up Five Cowries, the education charity in Nigeria. Take a look at their mission here.
Beyond Hatch Africa, Yemisi founded Hatch Ideas, a consultancy and training firm with a global reach. Hatch Ideas is dedicated to helping individuals and organisations develop businesses and initiatives for cultural change and social impact. With a client list that includes Arts Council England, BBC London, City University, and more, Yemisi’s influence spans continents.
Looking ahead, Yemisi and her team are set on expanding their impact.
Their plans include establishing partnerships with incubators worldwide, developing relationships with investors, and lobbying for policies that support creative industries.
Yemisi’s approach is dynamic and relentless, embodying the high-speed, no-green-light philosophy of the creative sector.
Yemisi Mokuolu’s story is one of movement, not inertia. She invites everyone to join her in generating a healthy and enabling environment for creative industries to flourish. With Hatch Ideas and Hatch Africa at the helm, the future looks bright for creative entrepreneurs everywhere.
In a world where creativity meets business, Yemisi Mokuolu is the guiding star, leading the way with passion, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to positive change.
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Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Vulture
Arts & Culture Network
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