June Newsletter

CEO's Desk

media pros africa C.E.O

May has been a milestone month filled with significant opportunities for stakeholders in the media industry. The Pridelands Wildlife Film Festival, held from May 29th to 31st at the Nairobi Street Kitchen, was an overwhelming success. The event concluded with the Nkaang’ Awards Ceremony at Simbs Corp Aspire Centre’s The Atrium, where delegates gathered to network and discuss pivotal issues related to wildlife and nature conservation.

Additionally, we celebrated the establishment of the African Audiovisual and Cinema Commission offices in Nairobi, hosted by the Kenya Film Commission. This Pan-African body is set to play a critical role in promoting research, distribution of African films, and supporting member states in the formulation and implementation of audio-visual and cinema policies.

The launch of King Kaka's new TV drama series, "Monkey Business," has also been a highlight, bringing to life the vibrant experiences of everyday Kenyan life. Furthermore, the second screening of "Limo On The Run," a compelling documentary by Njoki Muhoho, drew a notable audience of Kenyan athletes, dignitaries, and industry members at Baobox, showcasing the exceptional talent within our industry.

I had the honor of serving as a juror for this year's International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, contributing to the recognition of excellence in global television programming. This experience reaffirmed the importance of recognizing and celebrating outstanding contributions to our field.

As we move forward into June, I urge all industry stakeholders to remain engaged and involved in upcoming events. Media Pros Africa remains steadfast in its proactive approach and unwavering contribution to the success and growth of the media industry. We call upon all stakeholders to join us in driving innovation, collaboration, and development in this dynamic industry.

Your active participation is crucial for our collective success and the continued evolution of our industry. Together, we can achieve remarkable milestones and foster a thriving media landscape.

Honoring Filmmakers At Pridelands Wildlife Film Festival 2024

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The Pridelands Wildlife Film Festival (PWFF) wasn't just a celebration of Africa's stunning landscapes and magnificent wildlife. It became a platform that empowered filmmakers and ignited a global conversation about conservation. This year, we placed a special spotlight on the talented individuals who brought these vital stories to life.

PWFF -Africa's premier wildlife, conservation, nature, and environmental film festival. Recognizes the transformative power of film, and is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of storytellers. That's why it provided a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers, with a particular focus on amplifying African voices.

This year marked the 3rd edition of PWFF, and it remained the only festival of its kind on the continent. We showcased a diverse selection of films that explored various themes and cultures, offering unique perspectives and storytelling techniques. In addition to screenings, the festival featured workshops, masterclasses, and networking sessions designed to inspire and equip aspiring filmmakers.

Here's what made PWFF a haven for wildlife filmmakers:

  • A Platform for Indigenous Voices: PWFF empowered indigenous filmmakers to share their stories and perspectives on the natural world.
  • Celebrating Storytelling: We honored the art of filmmaking and the exceptional talent of wildlife filmmakers.
  • Amplifying Diverse Narratives: PWFF challenged industry norms by showcasing films that reflected the richness and complexity of African experiences. Appreciating our diversity in storytelling through various forms e.g virtual reality, documentaries, animation etc.
  • Global Stage: The festival connected African filmmakers with a worldwide audience, fostering collaboration and promoting conservation efforts.

We're glad you joined us at PWFF. You were part of a movement that celebrated the power of film to inspire change and shine a light on the importance of protecting our planet's natural wonders.

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Nairobi Welcomes The African Audiovisual And Cinema Commission

African Audiovisual And Cinema Commission

Nairobi takes center stage for African cinema with the arrival of the African Audiovisual and Cinema Commission (AACC). This new organization, headquartered in Nairobi, aims to empower African filmmakers by fostering collaboration, promoting education and training, and supporting the growth of the continent's film industry. The AACC's presence in Nairobi is a significant step towards a brighter future for African cinema, offering exciting opportunities for Kenyan and African filmmakers alike.

The establishment of the AACC in Nairobi is a landmark moment for the African film industry. By centralizing operations in Kenya's capital, the commission is strategically positioned to tap into the city's vibrant creative community and its growing reputation as a cultural hub. This move is expected to galvanize local talent, providing a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and gain international recognition.

One of the primary objectives of the AACC is to foster collaboration among African filmmakers. By bringing together directors, producers, screenwriters, and other industry professionals from across the continent, the commission aims to create a cohesive network that encourages the sharing of ideas, resources, and best practices. This collaborative environment is essential for the development of a robust film industry that can compete on a global stage.

In addition to promoting collaboration, the AACC places a strong emphasis on education and training. Recognizing the importance of skill development in the audiovisual sector, the commission plans to offer workshops, seminars, and mentorship programs. These initiatives will provide aspiring filmmakers with the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in the industry. By investing in the next generation of filmmakers, the AACC is laying the foundation for a sustainable and dynamic film industry in Africa.

The AACC's support for the growth of the continent's film industry extends beyond education and collaboration. The commission is committed to advocating for policies that benefit filmmakers, securing funding for film projects, and facilitating distribution channels to ensure that African films reach a wider audience. These efforts are crucial in overcoming the challenges that have historically hindered the development of African cinema.

For Kenyan filmmakers, the presence of the AACC in Nairobi is particularly exciting. It represents a unique opportunity to engage with the broader African film community and to elevate their work on an international platform. The commission's initiatives will not only enhance the skills and capabilities of local filmmakers but also attract international productions to Kenya, further boosting the country's film industry.

The launch of the AACC marks a new era for African cinema, characterized by increased collaboration, improved education and training, and stronger industry support. By establishing its headquarters in Nairobi, the commission is making a powerful statement about the potential of African cinema and its capacity to make a significant impact on the global film industry.

Watch the launch here courtesy of the Kenya Film Commission: Launch Video.

Sunny Side Of The Doc

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WildlifeDirect is excited to announce its participation in this year’s Sunny Side of the Doc, taking place from June 24th to 27th in La Rochelle, France.

This prestigious international event brings together documentary and factual content creators from around the world, providing a unique platform for networking, collaboration, and showcasing groundbreaking projects.

Founder and Director Paula Kahumbu will be leading the WildlifeDirect team at the event. Paula, a renowned conservationist, is eager to explore new partnerships and opportunities to advance our mission of wildlife conservation through impactful storytelling. Accompanying her will be the CEO of Media Pros Africa, Wangeci Mūrage, who brings a wealth of experience in media and communications to the team.

WildlifeDirect has been at the forefront of using media to drive awareness and action for wildlife protection, and we look forward to sharing our journey and future projects with the global community at Sunny Side of the Doc.

We encourage those interested in attending to visit Sunny Side of the Doc for more information and to register. Join us in La Rochelle for an inspiring and engaging event that promises to be a highlight in the world of documentary film making and factual content creation.

King Kaka Unveils New TV Action Drama "Monkey Business"

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Renowned Kenyan rapper, King Kaka, launched his upcoming Action TV-Drama Series "Monkey Business" at the Century Cinemax, Two Rivers.

The sold-out occasion brought together a distinguished audience comprising dignitaries from various sectors, including musicians, film and TV producers, actors and actresses, distributors, government officials, corporate executives, media representatives, and fans of the legendary artist. Together, they gathered to witness the unveiling of King Kaka's latest creative endeavor.

As part of our commitment to supporting and promoting groundbreaking initiatives within the industry, our CEO, Wangeci Mūrage, was honored to attend the event and extend our congratulations to King Kaka on this momentous occasion

We remain dedicated to fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and advancing our shared goals of excellence and creativity in media and entertainment.

CEO Wangeci Murage Earns Juror 2024 Badge For International Emmys

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We are thrilled to share that our CEO Wangeci Mūrage has once again been selected as a Juror for this year's International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences! It’s an incredible honor to participate in recognizing excellence in television programming from around the globe.

The recognition from the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences is not only a personal achievement for Wangeci Mūrage but also a source of pride for our entire organization. It underscores our commitment to excellence and innovation in all our endeavors. We believe that her participation as a juror will bring fresh insights and inspiration to our work, further enhancing our ability to deliver top-quality television programming.

As we celebrate this achievement, we are reminded of the importance of recognizing and promoting talent and creativity in the television industry. It is through the dedication and hard work of professionals like Wangeci Mūrage that the industry continues to evolve and thrive. Her selection as a juror for the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences is a reflection of her exceptional talent, leadership, and commitment to excellence.

We look forward to the positive influence she will bring to the Academy and the television industry as a whole. This achievement is a milestone for her and a proud moment for all of us. We are excited to see the continued impact of her work and the innovative contributions she will make in this prestigious role.

The Great Lakes Creative Producers Lab!

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Calling all East African filmmakers!

Have you been developing a documentary or fiction film that you're convinced deserves global recognition? The wait is over!

The 4th Edition of the Great Lakes Creative Producers Lab is your chance to take your project to the next level. This intensive program, held in Kampala, Uganda from November 4th-8th, 2024, is designed to equip emerging producers from Uganda, Kenya, Burundi, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ethiopia with the skills and connections needed to succeed in the international film industry.

Imagine this: Spend a week immersed in a dynamic workshop environment, learning from seasoned experts with a proven track record in both local and international film production. These industry veterans will guide you through exclusive sessions on critical topics like:

  • Crafting a Compelling Audience Strategy: Learn how to target the perfect audience for your film and ensure your story resonates on a global stage.
  • Storytelling that Sells: Sharpen your development skills and transform your concept into a captivating narrative.
  • Financing your Vision: Unlock the secrets to securing the resources you need to bring your film to life.
  • Market Placement Mastery: Discover how to navigate the international film market and position your project for success.

These are just a few of the valuable insights you'll gain at the Great Lakes Creative Producers Lab. This unique program offers an unparalleled opportunity to:

  • Refine your Craft: Gain practical knowledge and hone your film making skills through interactive workshops and one-on-one mentorship.
  • Build your Network: Connect with fellow East African filmmakers, industry professionals, and potential collaborators.
  • Gain Global Exposure: Get your project in front of the right eyes and open doors to international recognition.

Don't miss this chance to transform your film from a dream into a reality! The application deadline is fast approaching – submit your project by June 30th, 2024. Seize this incredible opportunity and apply today!