On Tuesday, 14 August 2025, our Chief Executive, Dr Bekeme Masade-Olowola, participated as a distinguished panellist at the YAPPI International Youth Day 2025, organised by the Youth in Animation and Post-Production Initiative (YAPPI). The panel explored the theme “AI in Creative Workflows: Redefining Storytelling, Art, and the Rules of Content Creation”, sparking a powerful and forward-looking discussion on the evolving intersection of technology, creativity, and sustainability.
Approaching the conversation through a sustainability and ethics lens, Dr Bekeme highlighted that AI should not be viewed as a substitute for human imagination, but rather as a tool that can amplify creative capacity. By processing vast datasets, simulating complex scenarios, and streamlining repetitive tasks, AI can allow creators to focus on developing vision, depth, and cultural authenticity in their work.
She further noted that while AI can support industries in Africa, its environmental footprint cannot be ignored. For example, generating a single advanced AI-driven image can produce roughly 2.2 grams of CO₂ equivalent. Additionally, AI servers require significant cooling and contribute to the rising electricity demand of data centres, making renewable energy integration essential. However, when used strategically, AI can help reduce waste in creative industries. For instance, in fashion design, digital simulations can replace the need for multiple physical prototypes, saving materials, costs, and production time.
Dr Bekeme’s contribution reaffirmed CSR-in-Action’s commitment to fostering innovation that not only advances creative industries but also safeguards the planet for future generations.