Asking for a sentence that best describes the Wildscreen Festival Tanzania 2024 #WSFTZ2024,
Simply put can be ‘A Celebration of African Storytelling Brilliance’
Majestically Gorgeous right?
Recalling the time in Arusha, Tanzania the #WSFTZ2024 took us all on a majestic safari I can say, taking us all on an immersive journey through our rich spirit of ‘Hadithi za Mwafrika’ (African Storytelling). From June 6th to 7th, 2024, the Mount Meru Hotel played host to this beautiful gathering of filmmakers, conservationists, and industry professionals, all united by a shared passion for natural-world storytelling.
“It’s about making this space more equitable, giving more opportunities, building capacity and collaborating” Jigar Ganatra, AFRISOS
Hosted in partnership with BBC Studios Natural History Unit and the Tanzania-based non-profit AFRISOS, this two-day extravaganza did spotlight the vital role that our African narratives play in promoting conservation and environmental awareness. The festival’s diverse program was a veritable treasure trove, brimming with headline talks, panel discussions, workshops, commissioning sessions, and invaluable networking opportunities.
One of the festival’s highlights was the WildPitch Tanzania competition, where aspiring and established African filmmakers had the chance to pitch their dream projects live to top industry experts, vying for up to $10,000 in funding, the best part, yeah. Not only did we celebrate emerging talent but also cultivated a spirit of collaboration and mentorship within this industry.
The craft workshops were a true masterclass, sailing into the intricacies of developing techniques, cinematography, post-production, and editing. Attendees had the opportunity to sharpen their skills and gain invaluable insights from seasoned professionals, ensuring that the art of natural world storytelling continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide.
Business and networking sessions provided a platform for all attendees to explore co-productions, demystify distribution channels, and forge connections with commissioners, this channels a build-up of a collaborative ecosystem that transcends our borders and cultures.
Discussions on talent development struck a chord so high a bar, addressing the importance of elevating African storytellers, supporting our Indigenous talent, and promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry. These conversations were not mere rhetoric but a call to action, inspiring all of us to be agents of change and break down barriers that have historically hindered representation.
“Small is a beautiful place to start” Etienne Oliff, The Elephant Queen: An Outreach Case Study
The festival’s exploration of conservation impact was a deeper edge reminder of the power of storytelling to drive positive change. We did dive into how narratives can raise awareness, inspire action, and ultimately contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, climate action, and environmental protection.
As the curtains fell on Wildscreen Festival Tanzania 2024, the echoes of its impact resonated far beyond the confines of the event. We departed with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with invaluable knowledge, forged connections, and a deep appreciation for African storytelling.
Sooner than you can know it, African voices will take center stage, shaping narratives that inspire, educate, and ultimately, protect the natural world we all cherish.
It was quite a blast. Signing Out!
Javis Bashabula
Communications Lead-AFO