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Digital Explore Conference 2024: The Success That Almost Never Happened
Cotonou, Benin Republic
The Digital Explore Conference (DEC) 2024, held on November 30 at Love and Light Multipurpose Hall, PK11, Cotonou, has been celebrated as a transformative event, blending thought leadership, cultural expression, and digital innovation. Despite an initial postponement and logistical hurdles, the conference succeeded in uniting participants across linguistic and cultural divides.
Sponsors Fuel the Vision
The conference’s success was supported by sponsors who provided discounted services and resources. Key contributors included:
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Kingdom Memes
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Ignition Move
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Dynamic Models Benin
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Ella Spray
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Cook Choice Centre
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Coble Studio
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Kekenor Matters
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Haute Technologie
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Mixpanel
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Alison
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Intercom
Love and Light Multipurpose Hall, the venue, offered more than just space, contributing free equipment and resources. Its owner, Rev’d Niyi Idowu, actively supported the event, underscoring a shared belief in the conference’s vision.
Keynote Speeches and Expert Panels
Host: Isaac Jesumbo Co-hosts: Mukaila Oluwaseyi John, Adeseye Omole PRO: Guillaume YAOTCHAMAGAN
DEC 2024 featured powerful presentations, including replayed and live keynotes by:
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Dr. Joybert Javnyuy, sharing insights on leadership and innovation.
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Mr. Dimerel Assogba and Mr. Mukaila Oluwaseyi, delivering thought-provoking talks.
Isaac Jesumbo, the anchor for the Panel Discussion and the Educational Talk Show, guided critical conversations, ensuring a seamless flow of ideas. The panel explored pertinent topics like AI ethics, led by Vembe David, and cryptocurrency regulations, discussed by Babawale Precious.
DEC 2024 also featured engaging Celebrity Talk Shows, where prominent speakers explored the intersection of digitalization and societal impact:
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Mr. Serge Sewa, discussing What Role Does Digitalization Play in Politics?
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Mr. Carlencio Oussou, addressing The Importance of Digital Technology in Agriculture.
The Educational Talk Show featured:
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Emmanuel GoldHeart, discussing How to Be Exceptional in Today’s Market.
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Aarush Khubchandani, a 10-year-old prodigy, addressing Digital Footprints and Media Literacy.
Inclusivity and Language Bridge
In a diverse community, inclusivity was key. Zoundji Yvonne Anuoluwapo, a skilled interpreter, facilitated seamless communication between French and English-speaking attendees, ensuring everyone could participate fully.
Capturing the Moment: Photography by Baruc Lawal DOSSOUGOUIN
The event was beautifully captured by Baruc Lawal DOSSOUGOUIN, the CEO of BMG Production, whose stunning photographs preserved the essence of DEC 2024. As one of the event sponsors, Baruc ensured every moment—whether onstage or off—was immortalized in exceptional detail, allowing attendees to relive the memories.
Entertainment and Cultural Highlights
The event also included vibrant cultural and entertainment performances. Gbegnon Agbovali delighted the audience with songs in both native dialects and English, while hip-hop artist Tonero brought an electrifying musical act. Renowned comedian MC Kekenor added levity with his humor, lightening the atmosphere.
Volunteers: The Backbone of DEC 2024
The success of the conference was underpinned by a dedicated team of volunteers who ensured its smooth execution. Their efforts were recognized with awards for their remarkable contributions.
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Abel N’SOUGAN – Volunteer of the Year.
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Victor Emmanuel – Community Impact Champion.
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Mojisola Ogun – Most Reliable Volunteer.
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David Maduforo – Service Excellence Awardee.
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Modupe Adeoye – Exceptional Dedication Awardee.
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Odeh Anthony – Selfless Service Awardee.
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De Massy Giuntini AMOUSSOU – Leader au Service Exceptionnel.
Other notable volunteers included Emi Martins, Jesuleye Peculiar, Daniel Adepoju, Emmanuel GoldHeart, Rock DEKPON, Ismaël C. DAOUDA ABASSI, Odiyas HOUNDJO, Sédores Constantin EROUBINOU, Ezéchiel Valère DJAKPA, Ayokunle Temidayo, Ayomide Ogunleye, Jola Ademola, Samuel Ukpe, Favour Ene, Nathaniel Daniel, Saviour Utrefonn, Virtue Dave, Robert lamami, and Olaoye Isaiah.
Looking Ahead
Despite the absence of VR games, modeling showcases, and food, DEC 2024 emerged as a resounding success. However, snacks and iced juice were provided for some attendees, adding a small yet appreciated touch to the event’s hospitality. The insightful discussions, cultural performances, and meaningful connections outweighed the program’s shortcomings, demonstrating the power of vision and collaboration. Attendees left inspired and energized by the wealth of knowledge and innovation shared during the event.
Now, imagine the possibilities for DEC 2025, where experts from around the world will be fully involved. With lessons learned and an expanded network of contributors, next year’s edition promises to set an even higher standard for excellence in digital innovation and collaboration.
While the absence of VR games, modeling showcases, and food posed challenges, the conference exceeded expectations by delivering invaluable insights and fostering connections. Attendees left inspired and optimistic about the role of digital transformation in Africa’s future.
With DEC 2025 on the horizon, the legacy of this year’s conference promises to inspire even greater innovation and collaboration.
For inquiries, contact: info@digitalexploreconference.com
