Hi, I’m Nia… and this is a little awkward to say, but this time last year, I was crushed.

I was accepted into the Cannes Lions Creative Academy, but when I didn’t get the scholarship to afford attendance I told myself to take it as a quiet loss. I thought asking for help would make that rejection louder—like I was spotlighting a failure.

But when I did finally share what happened, so many of you—my community, my village—were upset that I hadn’t said something sooner. You reminded me that asking for support isn’t weakness. It’s a reflection of how many people are rooting for me.

So I moved forward. I made it my mission to come back stronger.

Since then, I’ve:

• Completed One School, graduating as the top student of my cohort

• Landed my dream job as an Art Director at a renowned ad agency with global impact (They even won Network of the Year at Cannes Lions seven times!)

• Grown from being “just a doer” to a creative thinker with a voice that leads

And now? I’ve been selected again for Cannes Lions—one of only 30 creatives globally, and it’s my final year of eligibility.

Last year, I was honored to be considered. This year, I know I belong. I don’t just want to be in the room. I want to take up space in it.

I’m currently waiting to hear back about a scholarship. But if I’m not selected, I’ll need to pay immediately to secure my spot… and I don’t have the funds to cover it.

How the funds raised will be used:

• Program tuition

• Roundtrip flight to France

• Lodging while I’m there

Everything you give will help me be fully present for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity (and not stressed about how I’ll make it work.)

If you’re in a position to contribute or share this with your network, I’d be incredibly grateful. This isn’t just about checking a box—it’s the final step in a journey I’ve been on for the past year. Thank you for reminding me that I don’t have to walk it alone.