The Sèmè City Film Lab is an innovative response to the needs of aspiring screenwriters and content producers for film and television.
By Hope Ibiale
Sèmè City, the flagship initiative of the Benin Republic’s government dedicated to human capital development, and EbonyLife Media, Africa’s leading media conglomerate with a global presence, in collaboration with the EbonyLife Creative Academy, announce the creation of the Sèmè City Film Lab.
Applicants can register between October 17 – December 20, 2024. Applications are open to creatives aged 18 to 35, proficient in English, and committed to completing the 14-month course in Benin Republic.
This innovative film incubation program, supported by the World Bank, aims to equip young talents in Benin Republic with the skills needed to excel in the screen industries, and presents a unique opportunity for selected projects, including short films and TV pilots, to be funded and produced.
In a press release, Mo Abudu, the CEO of EbonyLife Media, stated, “We are immensely honoured to partner with Sèmè City for this ground-breaking initiative. This partnership reflects our shared vision of supporting creative entrepreneurs by providing them with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed”.
Claude Borna, the Managing Director of Sèmè City, also shared: “The Sèmè City Film Lab represents a significant milestone in creating new opportunities for young people in the film and television sectors. This partnership between Sèmè City and EbonyLife Media opens unprecedented perspectives by connecting talents from Benin Republic and Nigeria and fostering synergies”.
The Sèmè City Film Lab is an innovative response to the needs of aspiring screenwriters and content producers for film and television. This programme offers a comprehensive educational curriculum, mentoring opportunities, and access to a thriving creative community in Nigeria and beyond.
The first cohort will include thirty young talents, selected for their potential and passion, regardless of their previous experience in film and television. The programme places emphasis on the inclusion of young female talents, ensuring increased diversity and representation.
Interested applicants can find more information here.