The Filmhouse Group, a West African entertainment powerhouse, has partnered with the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) to launch an initiative to equip secondary school and university students with hands-on industry experience in the creative sector.

In a statement, the organisers said the program, set to commence on Monday, February 24, 2025, seeks to nurture the next generation of Nigerian talents in film, animation, and fashion.

“The five-day training, spearheaded by AFRIFF, will introduce students to career opportunities in the creative industry through interactive sessions with leading professionals. Notable industry figures 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 share insights on various career pathways,” it said.

One of the event’s highlights will be a fireside chat on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, featuring Chioma Ude and Ladun Awobokun. Titled “The Business of Film,” the discussion will explore the intersection of creativity and commerce, offering students valuable knowledge on industry trends and professional opportunities.

In addition to this collaboration, AFRIFF has also partnered with the Lagos State Government to drive youth empowerment and skills development. This initiative aligns with the state’s broader strategy to leverage the economic and cultural opportunities presented by the annual “Detty December” tourist season.

Kene Okwuosa, CEO of Filmhouse Group, emphasised the importance of talent development, stating, “Sustaining the Nigerian entertainment industry requires investing in young creatives. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering Africa’s creative sector.” Similarly, Ude reaffirmed AFRIFF’s dedication to mentorship and industry exposure for emerging talents.