Film Lab Africa, under the leadership of Brenda Fashugba from the British Council, is bringing about a revolution in Nigeria’s film industry. This visionary project is empowering a new generation of storytellers and igniting a spark of creative genius within the country. Recently, 20 emerging filmmakers completed an intensive 10-week training program, which not only honed their skills but also added more depth and passion to their work.
These talented individuals were awarded the prestigious Film Lab Africa project grant, elevating their careers and propelling them towards stardom. With this recognition, they now have boundless possibilities awaiting them, as well as the opportunity to bring their audacious creative visions to life.
Brenda Fashugba, the Creative Economy Lead for Sub-Saharan Africa and Head of ArtsNigeria at the British Council, played a crucial role in creating this career-defining moment. Her announcement at the virtual Creative Hustle event hosted by the British Council in Lagos captivated the industry’s elite and paved the way for a new era of creative excellence.
Fashugba, with over a decade of experience and a remarkable track record, is the perfect leader for this project. She has transformed the Lagos Theatre Festival into West Africa’s largest outdoor festival and founded the Women in the Arts platform to promote gender equality and showcase female creatives. Her dedication to combating sexual and gender-based violence has earned her recognition as an Obama Leader in 2018.
The Film Lab Africa grant recipients were selected through a highly competitive pitching process involving industry experts and seasoned filmmakers. From a vast pool of talented participants, 20 visual storytellers were chosen to be the recipients of the prestigious grants, empowering them to turn their innovative projects into reality. With this funding, they can confidently share their unique voices and stories with global audiences.
The selected finalists will receive expert mentorship from a distinguished panel of industry professionals. This guidance will provide them with invaluable insights and further enhance their skills. Film Lab Africa’s commitment to empowering the next generation of Nigerian storytellers and creative leaders is evident in the diverse range of winners and the careful selection process that considered cultural relevance, diversity, age, and geographical representation.
The winners in the short film category include Shimatever Igbawua, Twansen Danann, Stephanie Coker Aderinokun, Jemima Pearl Marcel-Udo, Akah Nnani, Sandra Adaora Anyanwu, Moses Ipadeola, Mel Rouge, Faustina Okomayin, and Ami Williams. In the microfilm category, the winners are Temiloluwa Oluokun, Tolulope Odebunmi, Jennifer Nkem Eneanya, Ayinde Amoo, Afahaene Winifred Allen, Fortune Animiokhali, Samuel O. Olateru, Olatomi Falore, Lucy Hannah Adikwu, and Peace Monday Shalom. These talented individuals are ready to make their mark on the world of cinema and bring their bold ideas to life.
Film Lab Africa, as part of the British Council’s ODA-funded projects, is committed to supporting Nigeria’s creative ecosystem. The selected films will receive global exposure through premier international festivals, amplifying their impact on the world stage.
The inaugural Film Lab Africa programme has already produced exceptional films that showcase Nigeria’s diverse stories. Each short film offers a unique perspective on the Nigerian experience, highlighting the country’s cultural richness and creative talent.
Film Lab Africa will continue over the next three years, welcoming future cohorts and further shaping Nigeria’s creative economy and film industry.