( ENSPIRE Community Spotlight ) That Good Media Partnered With Essence Film Festival To Put the Spotlight On Nigeria Day
ENSPIRE Contributor: Wesley Tran
Toyosi Etim-Effiong, the founder of That Good Media, partnered with the Essence Film Festival to lead a delegation of Nollywood stakeholders for its first-ever Nigeria Day. This year’s Essence Festival of Culture, for the first time in its history, included an Africa House and Nigeria Day on Saturday, July 1st, 2023 in New Orleans. Nigeria Day was a momentous event that celebrated the vibrant Nigerian film industry, fondly known as Nollywood, which significantly aimed to promote diversity and representation in the film industry. Nigeria Day holds a special place in showcasing Nigerian culture and touching on important aspects surrounding the film industry.
The delegation comprised a collective of esteemed stakeholders from the film industry who have contributed significantly to Nollywood’s growth and success. These included people such as Richard Mofe Damijo, Stella Damasus, Yolanda Okereke-Fubara, Daniel Etim Effiong, Ayoola Ayolola Biodun Stephen, Ijeoma Onah, and many more! These stakeholders took part in a variety of exciting activities lined up for Nigeria Day. First, panel discussions led by Nollywood experts delving into ‘Creating and Promoting Globally Content’ and ‘How to Partner with Nollywood’. In addition, there were fireside chats, movie screenings, and networking opportunities which fostered collaborations between Nollywood and their global counterparts.
Apart from Nigeria Day New Orleans welcomed Nollywood to its
vibrant cultural hub. On June 28th, the Mayor of New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, and Film New Orleans welcomed filmmakers to explore their craft and shoot their films in the city. The Mayor recognized and celebrated the art of storytelling, the magic of cinema, and the power of cultural exchange which transcends borders. In addition, the Chief of Staff of Diversity of Essence Barque Tubman said “Being here right now feels like home. I have to say a huge thank you to all of you. But I must really honor the team Ama and Lamonia and of course our sister, Toyosi.
She worked tirelessly. We have main stages and what we do belongs on the big screens. The big screens that the world must experience. Next year we will do things in our spaces but we must take it out to the rest of the world. That is the commitment that Essence Ventures has. That is what my role is as diasporic engagement: that we continue to bridge the gap and that we share all our stories.”
With a strong commitment to storytelling and promoting Nigerian talent, That Good Media played a pivotal role in this partnership with The Essence Film Festival. The Essence Film Festival is a prominent platform for celebrating African-American culture and showcasing diverse voices in the film industry. Since its inception in 1995, it has become a powerful force in cultivating inclusivity and spotlighting films that reflect the experiences and narratives of diverse communities. By hosting Nigeria Day as part of the festival, Essence recognized the global impact and brilliance of Nigeria’s booming film industry.
To learn more about Nigeria Day and That Good Media, be sure to check out their Instagram, LinkedIn, and website!
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