Call for Submissions: for Creative Business Studio Alumni

Call for Submissions: Creative Business Studio Alumni Exhibition – Bakashimika Foto Fest 2026

Unpublished Africa invites alumni of Creative Business Studio to submit work for an exclusive exhibition at Bakashimika International Photography Festival 2026 in Zambia. This exhibition is a continuation of our commitment to supporting emerging African visual storytellers, highlighting both their creative practice and the impact of structured early-career opportunities.

We are looking for work that demonstrates:

• Creative Vision: Projects that reflect your unique perspective and approach to storytelling.

• Professional Practice: Work that shows how you are applying skills learned through CBS, including collaboration, project management, or entrepreneurial thinking.

• Impact and Engagement: Stories that connect your practice to communities, audiences, or broader social, cultural, or economic contexts.

Submission Guidelines:

• Image Quantity: 3–5 images (series preferred). (Size - MAX 10MB)

• Caption: Brief context for each image.

• Artist Statement: 1–2 paragraphs about your practice, your creative trajectory, and how your CBS experience has shaped your work.

• Headshot: Include a professional headshot.

• Optional: Share how your work connects to the broader theme of navigating creative careers in Africa and embracing creative entrepreneurship.

Deadline: 15 February 2026

Submission Link: [Insert Airtable or submission portal link here]

Selected alumni will have the opportunity to exhibit their work in Zambia at Bakashimika International Photography Festival 2026, connecting their practice with regional audiences and contributing to ongoing conversations about the African creative economy.

About Unpublished Africa
Unpublished Africa supports emerging visual storytellers across the continent by providing visibility, professional pathways, and publishing opportunities. Through exhibitions, publications, workshops, and mentorship, we create entry points for creatives to turn talent into sustainable careers, while fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange across Africa.

About Creative Business Studio (CBS)
Creative Business Studio is Unpublished Africa’s professional development programme for emerging creatives. CBS equips participants with practical business skills, applied creative entrepreneurship, and professional networks. Alumni learn to navigate the gig economy, lead projects, collaborate with peers, and turn creative practice into sustainable professional growth. To date we have successfully held 4 cohorts of the program.