Filmhouse Group, AFRIFF, and UCA Launch Initiative to Equip Young Creatives with Industry Skills
The Filmhouse Group, in collaboration with the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and the University for the Creative Arts (UCA), has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at equipping secondary school and university students with valuable industry knowledge and hands-on experience in the creative sector.
This five-day program, led by AFRIFF, is designed to introduce young minds to the vast career opportunities available within the creative industry through interactive sessions with top professionals. The initiative aligns with efforts to bridge the gap between education, talent development, and real-world industry opportunities.
Empowering the Next Generation of Creatives
A distinguished lineup of industry experts will be leading sessions, sharing insights, and guiding participants on career pathways in fashion, animation, and film. Key speakers include:
- Chioma Ude, Founder of AFRIFF
- Ladun Awobokun, Chief Content Officer at FilmOne Entertainment & Filmhouse Group
- Marshall Michelle, Program Director for Fashion Image & Fashion Photography at UCA
A major highlight of the program is the fireside chat on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, featuring Chioma Ude and Ladun Awobokun. Themed “The Business of Film”, this conversation will delve into the intersection of creativity and commerce, offering students a deeper understanding of industry trends, business strategies, and professional opportunities.
Lagos State Government’s Role in Youth Empowerment
Beyond the Filmhouse-AFRIFF-UCA collaboration, AFRIFF has also partnered with the Lagos State Government to drive youth empowerment and skills development. This initiative is part of the state’s broader strategy to tap into its youthful population and prepare them to leverage the economic and cultural opportunities presented by Lagos’ booming entertainment and tourism sector—especially during the highly lucrative “Detty December” festive season.
By equipping young individuals with practical skills in film, animation, and fashion, the program will help them monetize their talents, contribute to Lagos’ creative economy, and further position Nigeria as a global entertainment powerhouse.
Industry Leaders Speak on the Initiative
Speaking on the collaboration, Kene Okwuosa, CEO of Filmhouse Group, underscored the importance of investing in future creatives, stating:
“Sustaining the Nigerian entertainment industry requires investing in the next generation of creatives. At Filmhouse, we are committed to equipping young talents with the skills, knowledge, and networks they need to thrive. This initiative reflects our vision to develop Africa’s creative sector and foster long-term industry growth.”
Similarly, Chioma Ude, Founder of AFRIFF, emphasized the impact of the partnership, adding:
“AFRIFF has always been dedicated to talent development. Partnering with Filmhouse Group and UCA strengthens our mission of providing young creatives with access to world-class education, mentorship, and industry exposure early on.”
A Sustainable Future for Nigeria’s Creative Industry
This initiative is part of a broader movement to establish a sustainable creative ecosystem in Nigeria—one that bridges the gap between education and industry opportunities. With the combined efforts of Filmhouse Group, AFRIFF, UCA, and the Lagos State Government, young talents will gain the resources, mentorship, and hands-on experience necessary to thrive in the entertainment space.
By fostering strategic partnerships, these organizations continue to drive innovation, cultivate new talent, and position Nigeria’s creative industry for long-term global success.
