The Filmhouse Group, in collaboration with the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and the University for the Creative Arts (UCA), has launched an initiative to equip secondary school and university students with knowledge and practical experience in the creative industry.
The five-day program is designed to expose young minds to career opportunities in fields like film, animation, and fashion through engaging sessions with leading industry professionals.
This initiative reflects the growing need to nurture young talent in Nigeria’s booming creative sector and ensure that students have access to industry insights early in their careers.
Led by AFRIFF, the program will provide an immersive learning experience where students can interact with professionals shaping the entertainment industry.
Industry leaders such as Chioma Ude, Founder of AFRIFF; Ladun Awobokun, Chief Content Officer at FilmOne Entertainment & Filmhouse Group; and Marshall Michelle, Program Director for Fashion Image & Fashion Photography at UCA, will lead discussions, sharing their expertise and guiding students through the realities of working in creative fields.
This direct engagement with established professionals is expected to inspire and prepare students for future roles in the industry.
One of the major highlights of the program will be a 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, exploring how young creatives can navigate the business side of the entertainment industry.
The session will cover essential topics such as film financing, distribution, and global industry trends.
Speaking on the importance of this discussion, Chioma Ude stated, “Creativity alone is not enough. Young creatives must understand how the business works to build sustainable careers. This session will equip them with the knowledge needed to thrive in the industry.”
Beyond the collaboration with Filmhouse Group and UCA, AFRIFF has also partnered with the Lagos State Government to expand youth empowerment and skills development efforts.
Recognizing the creative industry’s potential to generate employment and revenue, Lagos State has thrown its weight behind initiatives that prepare young people for careers in entertainment and fashion.
This partnership aligns with the state’s broader strategy of capitalizing on its rich cultural landscape and the opportunities presented by events like Detty December, which attracts thousands of tourists annually.
The goal is to ensure that local creatives can benefit from the economic boom associated with the influx of tourists.
By providing training in film production, animation, fashion photography, and other creative disciplines, the program aims to equip young talents with the skills to not only participate in but also shape the future of Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
According to Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, “The creative industry is a major driver of economic growth, and our goal is to ensure that young Nigerians are equipped to take advantage of its opportunities. This partnership is a step towards building a skilled workforce that can compete globally.”
In addition to theoretical knowledge, students will gain hands-on experience through workshops, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities with key industry players.
The program is structured to bridge the gap between formal education and industry practice, making it easier for young creatives to transition into professional careers.
“We want to create a clear pathway for students who dream of working in the creative sector,” said Ladun Awobokun. “By providing them with direct industry exposure, we are helping them develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed.”
Kene Okwuosa, CEO of Filmhouse Group, emphasized the initiative’s role in sustaining Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
He remarked, “Sustaining the Nigerian entertainment industry requires investing in the next generation of creatives. At Filmhouse, we are committed to equipping young talents with the skill, knowledge, and network they need to thrive. This initiative reflects our vision to develop Africa’s creative sector and foster long-term industry growth.”
His statement underscores the growing need for structured programs that nurture local talent and ensure Nigeria remains a key player in the global entertainment scene.
Similarly, Chioma Ude reinforced AFRIFF’s dedication to talent development. She stated, “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. We believe that by investing in the youth, we are securing the future of the African entertainment industry.”
This commitment reflects AFRIFF’s ongoing efforts to empower young creatives and provide them with the tools to succeed in competitive creative fields.
As the Nigerian creative industry continues to evolve, partnerships like this will play a crucial role in shaping its future.
By bringing together key players from education, entertainment, and government, the initiative creates a robust support system for young creatives.
Through mentorship, networking, and hands-on training, the program is designed to produce the next generation of industry leaders.
As Marshall Michelle of UCA put it, “Creativity is a global language. By providing Nigerian students with the right skills and exposure, we are preparing them to excel not just locally but on the world stage.”
Ultimately, this initiative is more than just a training program—it is a long-term investment in Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.
By equipping students with the necessary skills, industry knowledge, and connections, Filmhouse Group, AFRIFF, and UCA are laying the foundation for a thriving creative industry.
With the continued support of key stakeholders, Nigeria’s entertainment sector is poised for exponential growth, ensuring that young creatives have the tools they need to build successful careers and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
