10 lessons we have learned at Cannes Lions 2026

We are at Cannes Lions 2026, and what an experience it has been.

From seeing global icons such as Oprah Winfrey, Olamide Olowe and Keith Lee to hearing from some of the most influential voices across creativity, business, media and culture, Cannes has given us plenty to reflect on.

Beyond the sunshine, activations and inspiring conversations, we have been reminded of the mindset, courage and community needed to build something meaningful.

Here is a little of what we have learnt from being in Cannes.

1. The creator industry is growing, and it is set to double

The creator economy is no longer an emerging industry. It is a powerful and rapidly growing part of the global business landscape, and it is expected to double in size.

Creators are shaping culture, influencing purchasing decisions and building deeply engaged communities. Brands are increasingly recognising that working with creators is not simply an optional addition to a campaign. It is becoming a central part of how they communicate and connect with audiences.

For creators, this means there are more opportunities than ever. It also means we must take our work seriously, continue developing our skills and understand the value we bring.

2. Failure is part of learning and growing

Failure is not the opposite of success. It is often part of the journey towards it.

Many of the people we have heard from at Cannes spoke honestly about the mistakes, setbacks and challenges behind their achievements. The finished result may look effortless, but growth often comes from trying, failing, learning and trying again.

Every experience teaches you something. The goal is not to avoid failure completely, but to use it as information that helps you improve.

3. It is better to show up badly than not show up at all

Waiting until everything is perfect can stop us from starting.

Sometimes you will not feel completely prepared. Your idea may still need work, your confidence may be low or your delivery may not be exactly how you imagined it. Show up anyway.

You cannot learn from an opportunity you never take. You cannot build confidence without practising, and you cannot improve something you refuse to begin.

Showing up imperfectly gives you something to build on. Not showing up gives you nothing.

4. Be audacious and ask for what you need

There is power in being clear about what you want.

Whether you need advice, an introduction, support, investment, access or an opportunity, you have to be willing to ask. People are not always going to know what you need unless you tell them.

Being audacious does not mean being entitled. It means believing that your ideas, ambitions and needs are worth expressing.

The answer may not always be yes, but the answer will always be no when you never ask.

5. Bring your whole self. If you are a vibe, be a vibe

You do not have to shrink yourself to fit into the room.

Your personality, culture, perspective, humour and lived experiences are part of what makes you memorable. In a space filled with impressive people and polished brands, authenticity stands out.

If you are naturally warm, be warm. If you are bold, be bold. If you bring joy and energy into a room, do not dim that.

The right people will connect with who you genuinely are, not with a carefully edited version of you.

6. Be fully present in the experience

Bringing your full self is also about being present.

It can be tempting to spend an entire experience thinking about what to post, who to impress or where you need to be next. However, some of the most valuable moments happen when you slow down, listen and engage with what is happening around you.

Ask questions. Take notes. Join conversations. Pay attention to the ideas that challenge you and the moments that inspire you.

Do not become so focused on documenting the experience that you forget to experience it.

7. Your legacy is the impact you leave behind

Legacy is not only about awards, recognition or how many people know your name.

It is also found in the people you encourage, the doors you open, the communities you support and the change created through your work.

Every interaction leaves something behind. The question is whether people and places are better because you were there.

Success may be measured in numbers, but legacy is measured through impact.

8. Big up yourself and share what you do

Do not assume people already know what you do, Talk about your work. Share your achievements. Explain what you are building and why it matters. When you meet new people, give them the opportunity to understand how they can support, recommend or collaborate with you.

This is not arrogance. It is communication. You have worked hard to develop your skills and create something valuable. Be proud enough to speak about it. Nobody can advocate for an idea they do not know exists.

9. Serve your community and you will remain relevant

Trends change, platforms evolve and algorithms come and go. Service remains valuable.

When you understand your community and focus on solving real problems, meeting genuine needs and creating meaningful experiences, your work will continue to matter.

Relevance is not only about staying visible. It is about staying useful.

Ask yourself who you serve, what they need and how your work can make their lives better. When the people you serve remain at the centre of what you do, you build something deeper than temporary attention.

10. Be open to the people you meet

Not every valuable connection will arrive with an impressive title or an obvious opportunity attached to it.

Be curious about people. Start conversations. Listen to their stories and resist the urge to judge the value of an interaction too quickly.

The person standing next to you at an event could become a friend, collaborator, client, mentor or supporter. They might introduce you to someone who changes the direction of your journey completely.

Approach people with openness rather than expectation. You never know where one genuine conversation could lead.

Final thoughts

Cannes Lions 2026 has reminded us that creativity is about much more than producing great work. It is about courage, curiosity, community, authenticity and impact.

It is about showing up before you feel ready, speaking confidently about what you bring and remaining open to the people and possibilities around you.

Most importantly, it is about using your creativity to serve others and leave something meaningful behind.