Onye Ubanatu Inspires At The Event Xperience Africa Conference 2025

The fifth edition of The Event Xperience Africa (TEX A) conference, held in Lagos from January 29th to 30th, concluded successfully, drawing over 1,000 business leaders, event creatives, and innovators. A key highlight of the two-day event was a compelling session delivered by Onye Ubanatu, a festival producer, visual narrative expert, and creative entrepreneur. Ubanatu’s presentation, titled “The Unspoken Rule: Navigating Mentorship and Competition in the Events Industry,” resonated deeply with attendees, offering valuable insights into the power of authentic and emotionally resonant narratives.
The 2025 TEXA conference, themed “Reignite,” provided a platform for industry professionals to explore strategies for revitalising events and brand experiences in an increasingly dynamic and innovative landscape. Ubanatu’s session aligned perfectly with this theme, emphasising the crucial role of mentoring in the business world and brand storytelling in creating impactful and memorable experiences.
Ubanatu, recognised for his innovative approach to curating immersive experiences and his expertise in visual storytelling, emphasised the significance of authenticity and emotional connection in crafting compelling brand narratives. He stressed that understanding the fundamental principles of business partnership is crucial for success in the events industry. “Understanding the principles in a business partnership can take you a long way in this industry, especially in mentorships. If a brother or sister, or a colleague teaches you hot to fish, do not fish in their bond. There are unspoken rules when navigating through your career.” Ubanatu stated.
Beyond partnerships, Ubanatu highlighted the transformative role of mentorship in career development. He encouraged seasoned professionals to actively guide emerging talents, noting that mentorship is not only about imparting technical knowledge but also about instilling confidence, strategic thinking, and adaptability.
“The next generation of event professionals need more than skills; they need guidance, access, and real-world insights that only experience can provide, But for the next generation, as you learn from business leaders, be respectful, communicate openly, innovate not replicate, and always show gratitude” he said.
He further emphasised the importance of engaging with clients on a deeper, more personal level, advocating for mental and emotional intelligence as key components of delivering excellence. “Engaging with clients on a mental level should be an imperative in delivering excellence. Building a team of professionals with that level of emotional and mental intelligence can speak volumes for your brand, that is why mentorship is essential,” he explained.
Ubanatu’s session delved into the symbiotic relationship between mentorship and effective brand storytelling. He shared compelling case studies from his extensive experience. He also encouraged young professionals to seek mentors who could help them navigate the complexities of the industry, urging established industry leaders to be open to sharing their knowledge and experiences.
The 2025 TEXA conference served as a valuable forum for African event industry professionals to connect, learn, and share best practices. Ubanatu’s session on brand storytelling and mentorship left a lasting impression, equipping attendees with valuable tools and perspectives to elevate their brand narratives and create more impactful event experiences.