After undergoing weeks of intensive training and development, the participants in the inaugural Film Lab Africa program are now preparing to showcase their innovative and creative productions to a global audience.
This showcase initiative is a crucial aspect of the British Council’s creative economy program, which aims to place individuals and their creative potential at the forefront of sustainable growth, thus shaping an inclusive economy.
The season will kick off with a series of events held in multiple cities, starting with the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit (NIFS) in Lagos. This will be followed by the British Council premiere on Sunday, September 1, and culminating with the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit (NIFS) in London and Film Africa in October 2024.
Considered the highlight of the Film Lab Africa program, this showcase serves as a platform for the participants to present their films and explore opportunities for networking, distribution, and participation in festivals.
A significant component of the program’s strategy is to equip participants with opportunities to showcase their work and expand their market reach. This phase amplifies their creative output and fosters collaborative growth within the Nollywood industry.
“We are incredibly proud to witness the evolution of the Film Lab Africa program. By facilitating market access through showcases and premieres, we are providing emerging filmmakers with invaluable opportunities to share their work on a global stage,” said Chilufya Besa, Acting Country Director of British Council Nigeria.
During the showcase, the shortlisted filmmakers will have the chance to celebrate their achievements, exhibit their projects, engage with industry professionals, and gain the recognition they deserve.
This season aims to highlight the creative journeys of these filmmakers, showcasing the skills, resilience, and innovation they have demonstrated throughout the program.
The showcasing will commence in Lagos with the NiFS showcase on Wednesday, August 28. The event will feature exclusive short film screenings, networking opportunities, and a panel session on the Impact of Industry Support on the Development of Emerging Filmmaking Talent. Esteemed industry professionals like Brenda Fashugba, Olapeju Ibekwe, Tolulope Olamide Ajayi, and Olasunkanmi Adebayo will participate in this panel.
The excitement builds up to the highly anticipated British Council premiere on Sunday, September 1, where all the participants from the inaugural Film Lab Africa cohort will be honored, and their work celebrated.
Continuing with the NiFS London and Film Africa, London, this showcase provides international exposure and new opportunities for the participants.
The final event of the season will be a premier at Lagos Fringe, which will mark the culmination of the showcase and celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of the participants.
The showcase aims to redefine Nigerian cinema and shine a spotlight on the next generation of filmmakers on a global scale.
Film Lab Africa, a pioneering film accelerator program by the British Council, is dedicated to supporting aspiring filmmakers and TV producers in Nigeria. This comprehensive initiative offers a robust framework of support, including skill development, knowledge enrichment, and networking opportunities.
The program covers various areas such as mobile phone cinematography, short film production, industry entrepreneurship, and script refinement, equipping participants with the essential tools to thrive in the dynamic world of film and television.
Already in its third year, Film Lab Africa has achieved impressive results, unveiling ten exceptional short films that showcase the vibrant talent and diverse narratives of Nigeria’s emerging filmmakers.
Through rigorous training, funding, and mentorship, Film Lab Africa not only shapes the future of Nigerian cinema but also positions the country as a global powerhouse of creativity.
The British Council is the UK’s international organization for cultural relations and educational opportunities. Their work in arts and culture, education, and the English language aims to support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding, and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide.
They operate in over 200 countries and territories, with a presence in more than 100 countries. In the 2022-2023 period alone, they reached 600 million people with their initiatives.
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