SO&U, a leading Nigerian advertising agency, has launched “HATCH,” a Graduate Trainee Scheme designed to equip young creatives with the skills to excel in the advertising industry

SO&U, a prominent force in Nigeria’s advertising sector, has launched a new initiative, “HATCH,” a Graduate Trainee Scheme aimed at empowering young, creative, and ambitious individuals seeking to start or change their careers in advertising.

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According to SO&U, the HATCH program is designed to transform recent graduates into industry-ready professionals, providing them with the necessary skills and expertise to succeed in the advertising industry.

The company emphasises that in advertising, practical skills are more important than academic qualifications, stating, “In advertising, degrees don’t get you hired – skills do. And HATCH is where rookies get real.”

The agency is inviting applications from individuals aged 25 and under to join the graduate trainee program, with the tagline: “If you’re 25 or under and serious about making it in advertising, HATCH by SO&U is calling your name.”

William Jonah, Program Director at SO&U, spoke about the launch of the initiative, saying, “An ADman’s journey doesn’t hatch on its own — it takes grind, guts, and real experience. That is exactly what HATCH offers: hands-on training, exposure to live campaigns, and direct mentorship from the best in the business.”

Through the HATCH program, selected trainees will have the opportunity to:

Work on real client projects
Meet deadlines and agency expectations
Learn from leading creative and marketing professionals shaping Nigeria’s biggest brands

“This is not theory. This is the proving ground where young talent takes flight or gets left behind,” Jonah added.

SO&U is urging interested candidates aged 25 and under to apply as soon as possible, as applications close on May 24, 2025. The agency has warned that spaces are limited and late applications will not be considered.

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To apply, candidates can follow the application link provided in SO&U’s social media profile. The agency notes that the advertising industry is highly competitive, and applicants should act quickly to secure a place.