Esse Akwawa is a filmmaker on the prowl. As the creative force behind Webek Studios, she is committed to reshaping the narrative of African storytelling, moving beyond clichés to present a more authentic and diverse perspective. Her work not only showcases the continent’s rich culture but also challenges industry norms, paving the way for a new generation of African filmmakers. In a recent conversation, she shared insights into her journey, the challenges she has faced, and her vision for the future of African cinema.
Growing up in Cameroon, Akwawa’s passion for storytelling was ignited at a young age. She recalls being captivated by the power of visual narratives, particularly how they could shape perceptions and inspire change. “I’ve always been drawn to stories—whether told by my grandparents around the fire or through the films we watched on TV,” she shares.
Her early exposure to both traditional oral storytelling and global cinematic influences laid the foundation for a unique artistic voice that blends the two seamlessly. “I wanted to tell stories that reflect the depth and diversity of African experiences,” she says.
Akwawa’s journey into filmmaking was not without challenges. The African film industry, while burgeoning with talent, still grapples with issues of funding, distribution, and global recognition. “Getting the right support can be difficult, especially when you’re trying to tell stories that don’t fit into the stereotypes often associated with African films,” she explains.
Despite these hurdles, Akwawa and Webek Studios have managed to carve a niche for themselves. Their work wants to explore a nuanced portrayal of African realities—moving beyond the familiar themes of poverty and conflict to highlight stories of love, ambition, and everyday life. “We have so many untold stories, and it’s time we start telling them on our own terms,” she asserts.
Akwawa is a firm believer in the power of collaboration. She has worked with both established and emerging talents across the continent, pushing for a more interconnected African film industry. “One of my goals is to create a network of African filmmakers who support and uplift one another,” she says.
She also emphasises the importance of mentorship. “I was fortunate to have people who believed in me and guided me. Now, I want to do the same for others,” she adds, highlighting her efforts to train and support young filmmakers through workshops and film labs at Webek Studios.
For Akwawa, the future of African cinema is bright, but it requires strategic action. “We need more investment in our industry—from both the public and private sectors. More importantly, we need to build structures that allow our films to reach global audiences without losing their authenticity,” she argues.
Her latest projects with Webek Studios reflect this vision. Whether exploring contemporary African youth culture, reimagining folklore for modern audiences, or shedding light on social issues, her films continue to push boundaries. “Cinema is a tool for change. If we harness it well, we can redefine how the world sees Africa,” she says.
Esse Akwawa and Webek Studios are not waiting for change; they are making it happen. Their work signals a shift in how African stories are told—bold, nuanced, and unapologetically original. With each project, they are rewriting the script for African cinema, ensuring that the continent’s voice is heard, respected, and celebrated on a global stage.
