UNBOXED 2025
UNBOXED 2025: How It All Happened in Buea
On April 27, 2025, MCRATE-C (Muslim Creatives and Technology Community) organized the first edition of UNBOXED, a creative and inspirational event that took place at Pako Garage in Buea.
The program began at 11 a.m. and brought together young people, professionals, and community leaders who came to share knowledge, experience, and inspiration on how to turn ideas into reality.
The Purpose of UNBOXED
UNBOXED was created to help people discover and develop the gifts that are already within them. The idea was to bring together skilled individuals who could share their personal journeys, showing how passion and purpose can grow into real careers. The theme for this first edition was “Demystifying Talent, Passion and Purpose.”
The goal was to inspire the youth to understand that success is not a secret. It comes through effort, learning, and patience, and that creativity can be practiced in ways that respect Islamic values and ethics.
The Challenges Before the Start
The preparation for the event was not easy. NM Abdel Aziz, the founder of MCRATE-C, traveled overnight from Yaoundé to Buea to ensure everything was ready. Unfortunately, the city had been facing a power outage for several days, something the team only discovered that morning.
To keep the event going, a generator had to be rented from Molyko. While setting up, heavy rain began, which affected both attendance and sound quality. With limited electricity, the team could not connect all the lights, so part of the program was held in low lighting.
Even with all these difficulties, the spirit of the day remained strong. Everyone decided to continue, knowing that this first edition mattered far more than the setbacks.
The Program and Presentations
The event opened with a Qur’an recitation, followed by several inspiring presentations from professionals in different fields.
Skylight Pictures (Yaoundé) presented “Photography 101”, guiding participants through the basics of photography and sharing his own story of how he started as a professional.
Ms. Hussaina Fadimatou, NGO worker and MCRATE-C’s Director of Finance and Operations, spoke on “How to Start and Operate an NGO”, giving a clear picture of how to register, manage, and sustain non-governmental organizations in Cameroon.
Ms. Raudatu Kiki, agricultural scientist and member of MCRATE-C, discussed “Business Opportunities in Agriculture”, showing how young people can use agriculture for both income and impact.
Mr. Monir presented “Starting a Career as an Online Tutor”, sharing how knowledge can be turned into a source of livelihood through digital teaching platforms.
Mr. Awesome Lab D, one of Cameroon’s top YouTubers with over 100,000 subscribers, gave a talk on “How to Make Money with YouTube.” He explained how focus, originality, and consistent effort build long-term success online.
The Chairman of an Islamic School in Buea shared his story under “Business and Entrepreneurship”, giving real examples of faith-driven leadership and perseverance.
After the main sessions, participants enjoyed a short coffee break with snacks, followed by closing remarks. The rain continued into the afternoon, so the program lasted a bit longer than planned to allow everyone to wait before leaving.
Although the weather reduced attendance slightly, about 27 people took part in the event out of a target of 35, which was considered a good success for a first edition.
The Outcome
UNBOXED 2025 achieved its goal of inspiring young people to take action on their ideas. The event showed that even with limited resources, a strong vision can still shine through. Participants left with new motivation to pursue creative and entrepreneurial paths, and the speakers left encouraged to continue sharing their knowledge with others.
It also proved that MCRATE-C is more than just a name. It is a space for learning, discovery, and growth where Muslim youth can explore creativity and technology without feeling distant from their faith.
Looking Forward
This first edition was only the beginning. MCRATE-C plans to organize future editions of UNBOXED in more cities, with stronger partnerships and wider participation. Each edition will continue to help young people “unbox” their potential and see the possibilities that lie within them.
Unbox yourself, inspire the Ummah.
