Four African Episodic Screenwriters Selected for AuthenticA Series Lab
Four talented African screenwriters have been chosen to participate in the second edition of the AuthenticA Series Lab. This prestigious program, managed by the Realness Institute in Cape Town, aims to develop the skills and mentorship opportunities for emerging filmmakers in Africa. Among the selected screenwriters is Wanjiru Kairu from Kenya, alongside Tiah Beye from Senegal/Côte d’Ivoire, Kelly-Eve Koopman from South Africa, and Moreetsi Gabang from Botswana.
The six-month mentorship program began on September 19 and will provide the screenwriters with valuable guidance and support in refining their episodic storytelling skills. The AuthenticA Series Lab is one of six film industry development programs offered by the Realness Institute.
Wanjiru Kairu is no stranger to success in the film industry. With over 10 films written for DSTV and international recognition for her short films, Kairu brings a wealth of experience to the lab. Tiah Beye, who produced the documentary Haïroines during the Covid-19 lockdown, explores the complex relationship between Black women and afro-hair. Kelly-Eve Koopman, a renowned writer and artivist, received acclaim for her memoir Because I Couldn’t Kill You and co-curated the celebrated LGBTQI anthology They Called Me Queer. Moreetsi Gabang, whose short film Motswakwa was nominated for Best Short Film at the 2019 African Movie Academy Awards, also joins the lab.
Throughout the program, the selected screenwriters will benefit from the mentorship of Selina Ukwuoma and Mehret Mandefro. They will participate in online sessions spread over six months and attend in-person residencies at the Coot Club in South Africa and the StoryBoard House in Switzerland. The program will culminate with a pitching session on stage at the Series Mania Forum 2024 in Lille, France.
The AuthenticA Series Lab provides a unique opportunity for African screenwriters to hone their skills, receive expert guidance, and connect with industry professionals. By supporting these emerging talents, the Realness Institute is contributing to the development and success of African episodic storytelling on a global scale.
The chosen screenwriters represent a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, reflecting the rich tapestry of African storytelling. Their participation in the AuthenticA Series Lab will undoubtedly shape the future of television and film content coming from the continent. We eagerly anticipate the exciting projects these screenwriters will produce as a result of this invaluable mentorship program.
In conclusion, the selection of Wanjiru Kairu, Tiah Beye, Kelly-Eve Koopman, and Moreetsi Gabang for the AuthenticA Series Lab is a testament to their talent and potential. This program will undoubtedly empower and equip them with the necessary tools to succeed in the ever-evolving film industry. We wish them the best of luck on their journey and eagerly await their future contributions to the world of episodic storytelling.
