AFRIFF
Day 1 | Opening Day | Sunday, 2 November, 2025
Day 2 | Herbert Day | Monday, 3 November 2025
Social Calendar
from 9.00 AM
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AFCM Networking Breakfast (by invitation only)
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Panel 1
10.00 AM
10.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
The Global South: Navigating Alliances, Financing & Distribution While Disrupting the Status Quo
This panel discusses how Africa and the Global South are forming new alliances, accessing innovative financing, and disrupting traditional distribution models, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to drive creative sector growth. Key areas like IP protection, digital trade, and service liberalization under AfCFTA can empower storytellers.
Moderated by: Isioma Idigbe, Partner, Punuka, Nigeria Speakers: Chris Oshafi, Chief Executive Officer, PAC Capital, Nigeria Bolaji Balogun, Chief Executive Officer, Chapel Hill Denham, Nigeria Phil McKenzie, Co-Founder, GoldFinch, UK (via Zoom) Folajimi Alli-Balogun, Assistant Vice President Officer, MBO Capital, Nigeria Steve Osho - Chief Executive Officer, Comercio Capital, Nigeria Baba Agba, Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria, on Creativity, Special Assistant to the Federal Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy of Nigeria
Panel 2
11.00 AM
11.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
France–Nollywood Co-Productions: Strengthening Africa’s Film Market Ecosystem
Powered by the French Embassy in Nigeria
The session will focus on fostering collaboration between France, Nigerian, and African filmmakers through co-production and financing models, beyond the traditional box office sales. It will explore innovative revenues streams, knowledge exchange opportunities and strategies to strengthen the continent’s creative ecosystem. Discussions will highlight the long-term benefits of international partnerships for building a sustainable African film market.
Moderated by: Michael Ndiomu, Producer, Founder, Marturion Media | Isabiball Speakers: Kene Okwuosa, Chief Executive Officer, FilmOne Group, Nigeria Francis Nébot, Founder, IFind Pictures, France Asurf Oluwaseyi, Filmmaker, Nigeria Pape Boye, Producer, Chief Executive Officer, Black Mic Mac, France + Senegal Anaïs Poirier N'Diaye, Distribution, Film26, France + Senegal
Panel 3
11.15 AM
12.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Brazil and Africa - Bridging the Gap to the Lusophone World and Latin America
Powered by Sao Paulo Audiovisual Company (SP CINE), Brazil
This panel creates opportunities for African creatives to connect with Brazil’s Afro-descendant communities and the broader Lusophone and Black diaspora. It will explore how streaming platforms, community cinemas, and co-production partnerships can expand the reach of African stories. The discussion highlights new pathways for cultural exchange and audience growth across South America.
Moderated by: Charles Novia, Founder, Teen Africa TV, Founder, Novembre Productions Speakers: Marcio Yatsuda, President, Movioca Content House, Brazil Uche Agbo, President, Directors Guild of Nigeria, Nigeria Queen Blessing Ebigieson, President, Association of Movie Producers, Nigeria Anna Raquel da Silva, Co-Founder, Instituto Lentes Malungas de Audiovisual, Brazil Filipe Barbos, Director, Animal Filmes, Brazil
Panel 4
3.00 PM
4.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
The Power of Soundtracks - Exploring how Afrobeats Drives Emotion, Culture, and Identity in Films
Powered by Trace Urban
This session explores how Afrobeats could shapes emotion, culture, and identity in Nollywood films, enriching storytelling and connecting global audiences to African narratives. It also highlights monetization opportunities for soundtracks and film music professionals through streaming, licensing, and cross-industry collaborations, creating new revenue streams for African creatives.
Moderated by: Oye Akindeinde, General Manager, Digital Products Innovation, Airtel, Nigeria Speakers: Larry Gaaga, Vice-President, A&R, Def Jam Africa, Vice President and General Manager, Gamma, Africa, Nigeria Kevin Boakye, Co-Founder, Africa Creative Agency, Ghana Denis Cougnaud, Film producer and Co-Manager, Araucania films, France Sam Onyemelukwe, Managing Director, Trace Naija, Nigeria Ayo Animashaun, Managing Director, Hip TV, Nigeria
Panel 5
4.30 PM
5.30 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Rhythms of the Continent: Exploring How Afrobeats Impact African Cinema
This panel examines how music and film professionals can collaborate at the production level to integrate Afrobeats into storytelling and sound design. Participants will explore co-creation strategies, from soundtrack development to joint production models, and learn how these collaborations can enhance cinematic impact and global market appeal.
Moderated by: Joey Akan, Founder and Curator, Afrobeat Intelligence, Nigeria Speakers: Davido, Performing Artist, Chief Executive Officer, DMW, Nigeria Asa Asika, Talent Manager, Music Executive,Co-Founder,The Plug, Nigeria Dammy Twitch, Music Video Director, Chief Executive Officer, Polar Films, Nigeria Blessing Uzzi, Film Producer and Director, Chief Executive Officer, Blue House studios, Nigeria
Day 3 | Afrobeat & Nollywood Day | Tuesday, 4 November 2025
Social Calendar
9.00 - 9.50 AM
from 7.00 PM
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Networking Breakfast (by invitation only)
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French Cocktail (by invitation only)
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Panel 1
10.00 AM
10.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Frame by Frame: Forging German-African Film Production Partnerships
Powered by GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit)
This panel ignites dynamic collaborations between German, Nigerian, and African filmmakers, creating new pathways for co-productions, talent exchange, and cross-market growth. Join industry leaders as they explore how shared creativity and strategic partnerships can strengthen distribution networks and amplify Africa’s voice on the global storytelling stage.
Moderated by: Uzodinma Okpechi, Filmmaker, Founder, Primary Television & Film Productions, Nigeria Sandrina Koppitz, Co- Founder, Evolution Film Germany Peter Geidel, First Assistant Director, Mitteldeutscher Filmservice, Germany Theodor Leipert, Owner, Theo Leipert Films & Services, Founder, Managing Partner, Stoppen und Stecken, Junge und Leipert, Germany Barkue Tubman-Zawolo, Chief Community Officer, Essence, USA + Liberia Kingsley Ogoro, Managing Director, Klink Studios, Nigeria Ajayi Oloruntimileyin, Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer, Nexthought Studios, Nigeria
Panel 2
11.00 AM
11.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Licensing & Synchronization: The Business of Film Music in Africa
Step inside the business engine of film music, where creativity meets commerce. This panel reveals how African composers, producers, and filmmakers can turn soundtracks into sustainable income—through licensing, sync deals, and brand partnerships that position African music at the heart of global cinema.
Moderated by: Efe Omorogbe, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Now Music, Nigeria Speakers: Aibee Abidoye, Executive Vice President, Chocolate City Group, Nigeria Oscar Heman-Ackah, Composer/Producer/ Filmmaker, Chief Executive Officer, Soltracka Productions, Nigeria Cobhams Asuquo, Artist | TV Producer | Executive Producer | Founder, Cobhams Asuquo Music Productions, Nigeria Gloria Agu, Chief Operating Officer, Duale Ovia and Alex-Adedipe | Vice President, Association of Law Firm Administrators, Nigeria Edi Lawani, Lead Consultant, Kukuruku Inc, Nigeria
Panel 3
11.15 AM
12.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
The Proof is in the Story: How African Filmmakers Are Redefining Narrative and Impact
Powered by Paramount Africa
This panel explores how African filmmakers are using storytelling to spark social change, empowerment, and cultural transformation across the continent. With a special focus on the MTV Staying Alive Foundation, the discussion highlights how impactful narratives and media partnerships can drive awareness, challenge stigmas, and inspire real-world action.
Moderated by: Folu Storms, Media Personality, TV Host, Actress, Nigeria Speakers: Jemima Osunde, Actress, Cast Member, Shuga Naija, Co-Founder, Sanaa Beauty, Nigeria Wame Jallow, Executive Director, MTV Staying Alive Foundation, Botswana Bada Akintunde-Johnson, Country Manager, Paramount Africa, Nigeria Victor Hugo Orozco-Olvera, Senior Economist, DIME, World Bank, Mexico Fatimah Abubakar Alkali, Senior Communication Specialist, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Nigeria
Panel 4
1.15 PM
2.15 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
The Big Screen Effect: How African Stories on Film Shape Society and Culture
Powered by
This panel explores how African films shape cultural identity, preserve heritage, and influence generational legacies across the continent. Attendees will examine how storytelling can strengthen Africa’s cultural sovereignty, foster connections within and beyond the continent, and create lasting social impact.
Moderated by: Fifehan Osikanlu, Founder and Principal, Eden Venture Group, Nigeria Speakers: Sharath Chandra Guntuku, Associate Professor, Department of Computer and Information Science, University of Pennsylvania, USA + India Victor Orozco-Olvera, Senior Economist & Program Lead, Narrating Behavior Change Program, World Bank, Mexico Brenda Fashugba, Co-Founder of Lagos Fringe and Convener of Women In The Arts, Nigeria Colette Otusheso, Chief Executive Office, Accelerate TV, Nigeria
Panel 5
2.30 PM
3.45 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Behavior Shift: Influencing Change through Narrative
Powered by The World Bank
This session explores how African filmmakers can use storytelling to shift mindsets, perceptions, and inspire transformative change within communities and globally. By examining the psychology of filmmaking, participants will learn how narratives can reframe perceptions of Africa, Africans, and the diaspora, driving both social impact and cultural understanding.
Moderated by: Stephanie Busari, Journalist, Founder SBB Media, Nigeria Speakers: Johanna Blakley, Managing Director, University of Southern California - Norman Lear Center, USA Wame Jallow, Executive Director, MTV Staying Alive Foundation, Botswana Aric Noboa, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Executive Producer, Impact(Ed)International, USA Uche Pedro, Founder/Chief Executive,Officer Bella Naija, Nigeria Erikan Obotetukudo, Chief Executive Officer, Audacity Assets, Nigeria
Panel 6
4.00 PM
5.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Global Journeys in the Spotlight: Fireside Chat & Networking with Diaspora Stars David Oyelowo and Denim Richards
This session highlights the international journeys of African actors navigating careers across Hollywood, Europe, and Africa. Through an intimate fireside chat, Oyelowo and Richards share insights on building global networks, bridging diasporic experiences, and shaping opportunities for the next generation of African talent.
Moderated by: Deyemi Okanlawon, Film, TV, Theatre and Voice Actor, Nigeria VIP Speakers: David Oyetokunbo Oyelowo, Actor, Director, Producer, Founder, Yoruba Saxon, UK + Nigeria Denim Richards, Actor, Opera Singer, Chief Exedutive Officer, Opulent Entertainment Group, USA + Botswana
Day 4 | Animation, Tech & Fashion Day | Wednesday, 5 November 2025
Social Calendar
9.00 - 9.50 AM
from 7.00 PM
-
Networking Breakfast (by invitation only)
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AFRIFF Karoake (by invitation only)
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Panel 1
10.00 AM
10.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
The Future is Animated: Building a Sustainable African AI, Tech and Animation Industry
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This panel explores how technology, AI, and animation are reshaping Africa’s creative economy and storytelling landscape. Practitioners will discuss strategies for sustainable growth, talent development, and cross-sector collaboration, positioning Africa as a global hub for digital innovation and animated content.
Moderated by: Adebimpe Adebambo, Creative Lead & Founder, Adebimpe Adebambo Productions, Nigeria Speakers: Nabil Elderkin, Music Video Director and Photographer, Australia + United States + Iran Ferdy Adimefe, Chief Executive Officer, Magic Carpet Studio, Nigeria Malik Afegbua,Chief Executive Officer, Slickcity Media, Nigeria Niyi Akinmolayan, Chief Executive Officer ,Anthill Studios, Nigeria Roye Okupe,Chief Executive Officer, YouNeek Studios, Nigeria
Panel 2
11.00 AM
11.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Cinematic Harmonies: Exploring Music–Film Synergies and Monetization for a Profitable Future
This session uncovers emerging trends shaping the intersection of music and film across Africa and the Diaspora. Industry innovators will discuss how new technologies, streaming models, and cross-platform collaborations are transforming creative partnerships and unlocking fresh monetization opportunities for artists and filmmakers.
Moderated by: Kachi Offiah, Media & TV Personality, Nigeria Speakers: Dr Sid, Performing Artist, Entrepreneur, Music Executive, Nigeria Paul Okeugo, Music Executive Vice chairman, Chocolate City, Nigeria M.I Abaga, Performing Artist, Music Executive, Nigeria Kemi Adetiba, Filmmaker, Founder of Kemi Adetiba Visuals, Nigeria Charles Okpaleke, Chief Executive Officer, Play Network Africa, Nigeria
Panel 3
11.15 AM
12.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Fashion Meets Film: The Fusion of Costuming and Afrobeats Style in Nollywood
Powered by Paramount Africa
This session explores how fashion, film, and music intersect to define the vibrant visual identity of Nollywood and Afrobeats culture. Designers, stylists, and filmmakers will discuss costume design as a storytelling tool, the rise of Afrocentric aesthetics, and how these creative collaborations are shaping global trends and cultural influence.
Moderated by: Latasha Ngwube, Media Personality, TV Host & Presenter, PR Director, AFRIFF, Nigeria Speakers: Mai Atafo, Founder, Fashion Label Ataf, Nigeria Ugo Mozie, Fashion Creative Executive, Stylist, Designer, Nigeria Folake Folarin Coker, Fashion Designer, Founder Tiffany Amber, Nigeria
Panel 4
1.30 PM
2.30 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Quality vs. Quantity: Elevating African Digital Content for Global Impact
This panel explores how African creators can enhance storytelling, production quality, and authenticity to succeed on the global digital stage. Industry experts will share insights on content strategy, audience engagement, and platform optimization, showing how higher standards can drive sustainable growth and international recognition.
Moderated by: Bovi, Comedian, Actor, Filmmaker, Nigeria Speakers: Chineylove Eze, Film Producer, Founder and Director, ChinneyEze Productions, Nigeria Omoni Oboli, Actress, Director, Film Producer, Founder of Dioni Visions, Nigeria Ruth Kadiri, Actress, Film maker, Film Producer, Founder, Ruth Kadiri Films, Nigeria Sandra Okunzuwa,Actress,film Producer,founder of okunzuwaTv,Nigeria. Lilian Afegbai, Actress, Film Producer, Founder, EEP Entertainment, Lilian AfegabiTV, Nigeria
Fireside Chat
3.00 PM
4.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
In Conversation with David Oyelowo: Navigating a Career and the Future of Filmmaking in the Age of AI
In this engaging conversation, David Oyelowo reflects on his journey as an actor, producer, and director, sharing experiences from African, Diaspora, and global film industries. He also explores how AI and emerging technologies are transforming filmmaking, offering insights on how creatives can leverage innovation while maintaining authentic storytelling, performance integrity, and cultural voice.
Moderated by: Obinna Okerekeocha, Director of Content, MoniePoint, Founder of Naija AI Film Festival, Nigeria Speaker: David Oyelowo, Actor, Director, Producer, Founder, Yoruba Saxon, UK + Nigeria
Day 5 | Global Africa Day | Thursday, 6 November 2025
Social Calendar
9.00 - 9.50 AM
from 7.00 PM
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Networking Breakfast (by invitation only)​
Panel 1
10.00 AM
10.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Women in Film: Breaking Barriers with Iconic Soundtracks in Africa
This panel highlights how African women composers, musicians, and filmmakers are using soundtracks to challenge stereotypes and redefine narratives on the continent. Participants will explore how women are shaping African cinema, influencing cultural perception, and creating new opportunities through the strategic use of music in storytelling.
Moderated by : Chioma Onyenwe, Executive Producer, Director founder of Raconteur, Co-Founder, Artdey Africa, Nigeria Speakers: Ranada Shepard, Television Writer, Showrunner, Co-Creator of Netflix Animated Revival of Good Times - Chicago, USA Ini Edo, Actress, Film Producer, Founder, Minini Empire Productions, Nigeria Wangi Mba Uzoukwu, Media Strategist, Executive Producer, Chief Executive Officer, Upstitch Media, Nigeria Filson Ali, Filmmaker, Producer, Co-Founder Camera X, Sweden + Somalia Omotola Jalade Ekehinde, Actress, Film Producer, Founder, TEFFEST, Nigeria
Panel 2
11.00 AM
11.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
afCFTA Non-Aligned Trade: Unlocking Mutually Beneficial Opportunities for Africa and Global Partners for TV Content
This session explores how afCFTA’s non-aligned trade framework can create mutually beneficial opportunities for African TV producers and international content partners. Attendees will examine strategies for co-productions, cross-border distribution, and market expansion, highlighting how Africa can position its television content for global reach and collaboration.
Moderated by: James Omokwe, TV Producer, Chief Executive Officer, Feemo Vision, UK + Nigeria Speakers: Tim McNeil, Senior Vice President, Creative Talent Development, Disney Television, USA Steve Gukas, Filmmaker, Director, Producer, Nigeria Stephen 'Dr' Love, Film Producer, Co-Founder, Creative Studio, Invisible Collective, USA Ivan Melo, Film Producer, Partner, CUP Filmes, Brazil
Panel 3
12.00 PM
1.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Global Film Investment: Driving International Co-Productions and Partnerships in Africa
This panel explores strategies for attracting international investment into African film projects and fostering co-productions with global partners. Industry experts will discuss financing models, partnership frameworks, and market opportunities, highlighting how Africa can strengthen its film industry, expand distribution, and amplify its stories on the world stage.
Moderated by: Jema Amachree, Special Advisor, Head of strategy, Nigeria Federal Ministry of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Nigeria. Speakers: Paul Garnes, Film and TV Producer, President, Array Now, USA Filson Ali, Filmmaker, Producer, Co-Founder Camera X, Sweden + Somalia Marcio Yatsuda, Executive Producer, Manager, Co-Owner, Content House, Brazil Moses Babatope, Film Distributor, Founder, Nile Media Entertainment Group, Nigeria
Panel 4
3.00 PM
4.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Making of a Nollywood Blockbuster: Funke Akindele's A TRIBE CALLED JUDAH
This session offers a behind-the-scenes exploration of Funke Akindele’s blockbuster, featuring insights from the actors, director, and producer. Attendees will learn about story development, production challenges, casting, and marketing strategies, showcasing how Nollywood is elevating blockbuster filmmaking and reaching global audiences.
Moderated by: Hero Daniels, TV Host, Nigeria Speakers: Funke Akindele, Actress, Filmmaker, Producer, Founder, Scene One Production, The Funke Akindele Network, Nigeria Jide Kene Achufusi, Actor, Filmmaker, Nigeria Genoveva Umeh, Actress, Nigeria Boma Akpore, Actor, Nigeria
Day 6 | Global Nollywood Day | Friday, 7 November 2025
Social Calendar
9.00 - 9.50 AM
from 7.00 PM
-
Networking Breakfast (by invitation only) ​
Panel 1
10.00 AM
10.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
From Africa to the World: Unlocking African Talent for Global Opportunities
This session explores how African talents in film—actors, directors, producers, and writers—can thrive on the global stage. It examines pathways to international visibility through collaborations, festivals, and streaming platforms. Participants will gain insights into building globally competitive skills and creative brands. The goal is to position Africa’s film professionals as influential voices shaping world cinema.
Moderated by: John Njama, Actor, Film producer and Director, Chief Executive Officer, Colorbar Media 707, Nigeria Speakers: Barkue Tubman-Zawolo, ChiefCommunityOfficer, Essence, USA + Liberia Kay Jegede, Writer, Talent Manager, Nigeria Jennifer Okafor, Talent Manager, Founder, JOI Lumina Group, Nigeria Sue Ellen Chitunya, Film Producer, Filmmaker, Zimbabwe Andrea Voges, Project Manager, Head of programming, Durban International Film Festival, South Africa Al Jerometta, Writer, Producer, Entertainment Law, Liberia
Panel 2
11.00 AM
11.45 AM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Unlocking the Potential of Pan-African Cinema — Strategies for Profitability and Exchange in a Growing Market
This panel delves into the opportunities and challenges within the rapidly expanding Pan-African film industry. It explores practical strategies for boosting profitability, fostering cross-border collaboration, and strengthening distribution networks across the continent and beyond. Experts will discuss financing models, audience development, and the role of digital platforms in driving growth. The session aims to chart a sustainable path for African cinema to thrive as both a cultural force and a viable global market player.
Moderated by: TBD Speakers: (representatives from TBC) SP CINE Brazil Kenya Film Commission Uganda Film Council Cameroon Film Industry National Film & Video Fund Nigeria Film & Video Censors’ Board
Panel 3
12.00 PM
1.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Faith & Purpose-Led Storytelling: Shaping the Future of African and Diaspora Narratives
This panel explores the rising influence of faith-based filmmaking across Africa and the Diaspora, focusing on how spiritual values and purposeful storytelling can drive cultural renewal and social transformation. Panelists will share insights on creating inspiring, authentic films that reflect faith, hope, and moral conviction while appealing to global audiences. The discussion will highlight opportunities in production, financing, and distribution for faith-centered content. Ultimately, the session aims to empower filmmakers to use cinema as a medium of inspiration, unity, and positive change.
Moderated by: Fifehan Oshikanlu, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Eden Ventures Group, Nigeria Speakers: Shawn Faqua, Actor, TV Host, Nigeria Biodun Stephen, Filmmaker,Director,Film producer,Chief Executive Officer, Shutterspeed Project, Nigeria Dr Foy, Media Strategist, Founder Energize Central, Nigeria Edith Nwekenta, Filmmaker, Producer, Creative Director, Co- Founder, WEBEK Studio, Nigeria Laju Iren, Founder, Laju Iren Films, Nigeria
Panel 4
3.00 PM
4.00 PM
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Access
AFRIFF Badge
AFCM Badge
Making of Two Nollywood Blockbusters — Kemi Adetiba’s To Kill a Monkey and Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors
This exclusive session brings together the creative forces behind two of Nollywood’s most anticipated blockbusters — To Kill a Monkey, directed by Kemi Adetiba, and Seven Doors, led by Femi Adebayo. Featuring key actors, directors, and producers, the panel will take audiences behind the scenes of both productions, revealing the storytelling vision, creative challenges, and innovative approaches that define contemporary Nigerian cinema. From script to screen, participants will gain insight into how these filmmakers are shaping Nollywood’s global identity and setting new standards for excellence in African filmmaking.
Moderated by: William Benson, Actor, Filmmaker, Nigeria Kemi Adetiba, Director, To kill A Monkey, Nigeria Femi Adebayo, Actor, Filmmaker, Founder, Euphoria360 Media, Producer, Co-director, Seven Doors, Nigeria Chioma Akpota, Actress, Filmmaker, Nigeria Gabriel Afolayan, Actor, Nigeria … Buchi Franklin, Actor, Nigeria. Sunshine Rosman, Actress, Nigeria