Recently, graduates of the KAP-SOPA Pan-African Filmmaking Bootcamp achieved a significant milestone, securing two slots to screen their films at the 2026 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). The bootcamp, a collaboration between KAP Film & Television Academy and the Government of the Republic of Benin through its audiovisual agency, SOPA, trained 20 young Beninese creatives in filmmaking theory, practical training, and production over 12 weeks.
The announcement was made at a student film premiere, where Chioma Ude, founder and Executive Director of AFRIFF, expressed confidence in the quality and potential of the students' work. Ude assured the young filmmakers that two of their films would be screened in the Students' Film category at the next edition of AFRIFF. This opportunity provides a platform for the graduates to showcase their talents on the international film circuit.
The KAP-SOPA Pan-African Filmmaking Bootcamp culminated in the creation and premiere of three original short films. The films were screened before an audience of respected figures in African cinema and the international film community, including Keith Shiri, Jean-Pierre Bekolo, Femi Odugbemi, Tunde Kelani, Tade Ogidan, Virginie Besson-Silla, Chioma Ude, and Sola Sobowale. Industry greats greeted the graduates with applause at the event.
The graduation ceremony also saw the unveiling of ITAN, The Screen Gathering and Awards, by Femi Odugbemi. This new platform is being championed by KAP Group founder Kunle Afolayan. The event marked a significant milestone for the graduates, bridging the gap between the classroom and the international festival circuit.
The 12-week bootcamp provided intensive training in filmmaking theory, practical training, and production. The programme aimed to equip young creatives with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the film industry. The graduates' achievement demonstrates the effectiveness of the programme in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for young filmmakers.
The Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is a prominent platform for showcasing African films and talent. The festival provides a platform for filmmakers to network, learn, and showcase their work to a global audience. The inclusion of the KAP Academy film graduates' work in the festival programme highlights the growing recognition of their talent and potential in the film industry.
The achievement of the KAP Academy film graduates is a testament to the power of collaboration and investment in film education. The partnership between KAP Film & Television Academy and the Government of the Republic of Benin through SOPA has provided a platform for young creatives to develop their skills and showcase their talents on the international stage.
Key points
- Two films by KAP Academy graduates will be screened at the 2026 AFRIFF.
- The graduates completed the KAP-SOPA Pan-African Filmmaking Bootcamp, a 12-week programme in filmmaking theory, practical training, and production.
- The achievement marks a significant milestone for the graduates, providing a platform to showcase their talents on the international film circuit.
