FOR over a decade, the IREPRESENT International Documentary Film Festival has brought together diverse stakeholders from various fields - filmmakers, scholars, activists, cultural anthropologists, public policy experts, and even digital technologists. We have intentionally facilitated cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration to enrich the storytelling process and broaden the understanding and impact of documentary filmmaking in Africa.
Indeed, IREP has fostered vital collaboration between filmmakers and activists, bridging the gap between art and activism. We have not just been a film festival but a transformative force bringing together sundry stakeholders to reimagine the possibilities of impact filmmaking in the digital age. Together we are harnessing documentary’s power to engage, question, debate, inform, and inspire change. And through our legacy theme of ‘Africa in Self-Conversation’, we hope that IREP has contributed to a more nuanced understanding of the continent's diverse cultures, histories, and challenges.
On occasion of the 10th anniversary edition in 2020, we planned to publish a book of essays by distinguished participants, keynote speakers and contributors of the IREP community to serve as a testament to the festival's legacy and vision. The reflections capture the essence of IREP's impact over its first decade, highlighting its role in sparking meaningful conversations, preserving cultural heritage, and driving social change. However, the sudden burst of COVID19 pandemic which led to the last-minute cancellation of the 10th anniversary edition, truncated the idea. The proposed publication remains a priority for the Board of Trustees, and shall be realized in due course. We are delighted to share a few of the reflections here. Thank you!
— Femi ODUGBEMI
Executive Director, iREP
NB: Editorial note: the original caption of the individual articles have been modified to reflect the simple theme: “iREP Is…” which is a deliberate choice to capture the place of the festival in the Nigerian and African film universe.
… A natural part of the flow of culture
Read More...The echo of every voice
Read More…Celebrating people and images
Read More…A space for young filmmakers to meet international professionals
Read More…Promoting African identity through Storytelling
Read More…A Bridge across Nations
Read More…Preserving stories and memories
Read More…A space for critical discourse through presenting alternative narratives
Read More... a constant reminder that real issues exist needing real solutions and true compassion
Read More…A common ground for nondiscriminatory relations
Read More…rests on good brains and good hearts!
Read MoreConnecting generations of Africans
Read More…Supporting film professionals with passion
Read More…Inspiring much-needed conversations about Africa
Read More…A refuge to otherwise disrespected professionals
Read More..A network for filmmakers to share ideas
Read More…An embodiment of infectious enthusiasm by creatives and audience
Read More…A learning interface for both filmmaker and the audience
Read More…Capturing history and humanity in a site of Freedom
Read More…A platform for inspiration, re-education and aesthetic awakening
Read More…A platform to renew, build professional ties; get start-up opportunities
Read More…The coolest film festival in Nigeria
Read More…Continental powerhouse for African self-assertion
Read More…enriches discourse on African Cinema
Read More…A platform for strong African narratives
Read More…Refocusing attention on African history, and cultural identity
Read More…A link between generation of African storytellers
Read More…Where we share communion of our Humanity
Read More…A profile in dream, courage, resilience
Read MoreOn the right side of history
Read More