The inaugural AFFC Storytellers Film Lab brought together 19 emerging filmmakers to develop original short films through mentorship, workshops, peer learning, and hands-on filmmaking experience.

The programme culminated in a red-carpet premiere at Century Cinemax, Two Rivers Mall, themed Monochrome: A Black & White Gala, where participants debuted their films before an audience of nearly 100 guests, industry professionals, supporters, and members of the creative community.

Each participant was awarded a Certificate of Completion from the Kenya Film Commission in recognition of their achievement. In addition to the cohort films, AFFC hosted a special call-out for filmmakers aged 35 and above, providing a platform for their short films to be screened as part of the showcase and fostering intergenerational dialogue within Kenya’s film industry.

The showcase also included an international submission from a US-based filmmaker, whose short film was selected and screened alongside Cohort 1 projects. This marked an early indication of AFFC’s growing global reach and its potential to connect filmmakers across borders.

The evening further featured remarks from Wamaitha Maggie, writer and director of Still, whose film was produced using equipment from AFFC’s Equipment Hub. Her participation highlighted the impact of accessible filmmaking tools in enabling independent creators to bring their stories
to life.

The success of the lab extended beyond the premiere, with several cohort films later screening at Kitale Film Week and receiving award nominations.

Cohort 1 marked the beginning of AFFC’s commitment to nurturing bold new voices, building creative communities, and championing authentic African storytelling

19 Filmmakers. 7 Original Voices. One Unforgettable Beginning.

PARTICIPANT HEADSHOTS

Cohort 1 participants headshots, courtesy of RafikiHub / Eric Muiru

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FILM POSTERS