The S16 Film Festival has unveiled the four filmmakers selected for the inaugural edition of its S16 Development Lab, a programme designed to support emerging creatives in developing bold and authentic film projects.
The selected participants are Ella Chikezie, director of the award-winning In Her Shoes; filmmaker Adekunle Blue; multidisciplinary artist Gozirimuu Obinna; and Theo-ziny Joel, whose film Evil Spirit received award nominations.
The announcement, made via the festival’s Instagram page, comes nearly three months after applications opened on 5 March and closed on 20 April.
The inaugural S16 Development Lab will run as a five-month hybrid program featuring workshops, mentorship, masterclasses and collaborative sessions aimed at helping participants develop their original film projects.
Beyond project development, the initiative seeks to equip participants with industry knowledge while fostering professional relationships across the global film landscape.
Founded by the Surreal16 Collective, comprising Abba T. Makama, C.J. Obasi and Michael Omonua, the S16 Film Festival champions independent filmmaking and emerging creative voices. The launch of the S16 Development Lab marks another step in the festival’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of African filmmakers.
