The Essence Film Festival, renowned for celebrating African-American culture and diverse voices in the film industry, witnessed a historic moment as it introduced its first-ever Nigeria Day on July 1st, 2023, in New Orleans. Spearheaded by Toyosi Etim-Effiong, the founder of That Good Media, and in collaboration with Nollywood stakeholders, Nigeria Day showcased the vibrant Nigerian film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, while championing diversity and representation within the cinematic world.
The inclusion of Nigeria Day in the Essence Festival of Culture was a remarkable event that not only celebrated Nigerian culture but also provided a platform for essential discussions concerning the film industry. That Good Media played a pivotal role in the partnership, driven by their strong commitment to storytelling and promoting Nigerian talent. Recognising Nollywood’s global impact and brilliance, Essence Festival showcased the significant contributions of Nigeria’s booming film industry.
Toyosi Etim-Effiong, reflecting on the partnership with Essence, emphasized the importance of inclusivity and representation in this era. As the second-largest film industry in the world, Nollywood’s titles deserve to be widely available on content platforms worldwide. Nigeria Day aimed to provide a glimpse into Nigeria’s world and its captivating stories, fostering cultural exchange between Nollywood and the rest of the globe.
Barque Tubman, the Chief of Staff of Diversity at Essence, expressed her gratitude and acknowledged the efforts of Toyosi and the entire team for making Nigeria Day a reality. The goal is to share their stories with the world, bridging gaps and promoting cultural exchange through powerful narratives showcased on big screens globally.
During the panel session on ‘Promoting Cultural Exchange and Inclusivity in Hollywood Productions,’ notable figures such as Gina Yashere, Nkechi Carroll, Osas Ighodaro, Folake Olowofoyeku, and Kay Jegede delved into the growing collaboration between Nollywood and Hollywood. This connection between the two film industries has gained momentum in recent times, resulting in more global recognition of Nollywood’s talent and creativity.
The delegation representing Nollywood at the Essence Film Festival included esteemed stakeholders who have significantly contributed to the growth and success of the Nigerian film industry. Personalities such as Richard Mofe Damijo, Stella Damasus, Yolanda Okereke-Fubara, Daniel Etim Effiong, Ayoola Ayolola Biodun Stephen, Ijeoma Onah, Mofe Duncan, Osas Ighodaro, Deyemi Okanlanwo, Stan Nze, Omowumi Dada, Timini Egbuson, Shawn Faqua, Uzor Arukwe, and Seun Ajayi were among those present.
Nigeria Day offered an exciting lineup of activities at the Essence Film Festival. Panel discussions led by Nollywood experts explored themes like ‘Creating and Promoting Global Content’ and ‘How to Partner with Nollywood.’ Additionally, fireside chats, movie screenings, and networking opportunities fostered collaborations between Nollywood and the international film community.
The success of Nigeria Day at the Essence Film Festival stands as a triumph for Nigerian cinema, showcasing its unique narratives and cultural richness to a global audience. This milestone event reinforces the significance of cultural exchange, inclusivity, and representation in the film industry, opening doors for greater opportunities and global recognition for Nollywood.
