Despite the immense talent and creativity within the country, Bangladesh’s advertising and creative industry has long remained underrepresented on the global stage. To change this narrative, the Advertising Agencies Association of Bangladesh (AAAB) organized a landmark workshop titled “How to Tame Lions”. This was the first open masterclass in Bangladesh to directly discuss submissions, categories, and winning strategies for international festivals such as Cannes Lions.
The day-long workshop was led by Mohammad Akrum Hossain (CCO, POP5), Bangladesh’s most awarded creative professional. With experience as both a Cannes Lions winner and jury member, Akrum guided participants on how to develop work that meets international standards and effectively present creative ideas to global audiences.
The initiative also received strong international support. Ali Rez (CCO, Impact BBDO, Middle East, North Africa & Pakistan) and Seiya Matsumiya (CEO, Black Cat White Cat Music) joined online, sharing invaluable insights and emphasizing that Bangladesh deserves a stronger voice in global advertising. Their guidance provided local talent with key knowledge to help them break through on the world stage.
Participants were challenged with a live open brief, pitching their solutions before a distinguished jury panel including Simon Islam Shawon (Mediacom), Salahuddin Shahed (Bitopi), Hasib Chowdhury (Adcomm) and Bitop Das Gupta (Grey Bangladesh & Pakistan). This practical session offered participants hands-on experience, expanding their thinking and creative capabilities.
The workshop’s opening remarks were delivered by Apon Ahsan, General Secretary, AAAB, and M A Maruf, Joint Secretary, AAAB, highlighting the importance of education and preparing Bangladesh’s creatives for international recognition.
The success of “How to Tame Lions” marks a turning point for the local industry. For the first time, Bangladesh’s creative community gained direct access to the tools, knowledge, and insights required to compete at the highest global level. Due to overwhelming interest, AAAB has already announced plans for a second edition, further strengthening its mission to secure Bangladesh’s rightful place on the international creative map.
