An experience curator and mental health advocate, Jakpo Ukueku, has spent over a decade crafting events that resonate deeply with audiences. Starting as a marketing assistant at MultiChoice Nigeria in 2008, he was thrust into the events world, contributing to Africa Magic’s 5th anniversary at Eko Hotel, Lagos. This pivotal moment ignited his passion for creating meaningful experiences.

“For me, creating experiences comes from creating a connection. Be it spoken words or mental health, we have to communicate experiences,” Ukueku stated.

Returning to Nigeria in 2013 after a master’s programme in the UK, Ukueku co-founded Jam Rock in 2015, a project that became a significant milestone in his career. “By the 5th edition, the numbers were mind-blowing, which meant a lot to me at the time,” he recalled.

At the helm of Rayven Experiences, Ukueku emphasized a customer-centric approach. “We care about the 360-degree feel of the event—the anticipation, pre- and post-event, our detailed approach, and the feedback after it’s done,” he explained.

As technology transforms the events industry, Ukueku noted its role in enhancing communication and research. “The digital space, with social media and AI, makes event curation better and allows us to reach more people,” he said.

Ukueku’s work also intersects with mental health advocacy, a cause close to his heart. “There is a big correlation between mental health awareness and experience curation, and for me, that’s what pushes us to be better,” he stated.