Share, Inspire and Learn
AfroBerlin Program
AfroBerlin 2025 is a series of Industry Sessions that provide a platform for professionals to share their experiences and insights. Join to learn, connect, and celebrate the richness of people, films, cultures and businesses within the Afro Multiverse. We aim to create a space where people from all backgrounds can come together, connect, collaborate and walk away enriched. Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming program!
Day 1 - Sunday 16, February 2025
9.05 -9.50 AM
Panel 1
Spotlight on new genre, genre bending and blending
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Effie T. Brown, Founder, Game Changer Films, USA (Producer Real Women Have Curves, Dear White People), recipient, Independent Spirit Awards, USA
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Ibrahim “Snoopy” Ahmad, Founder, Deep Visions Productions, Director of Khartoum (Berlinale 2025 selection), Journey to Kenya, Sudan
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Imran Hamduley, Writer, Director, The Heart is a Muscle (Berlinale 2025 Panorama), South Africa
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Lamin Leroy Gibba, Writer, Producer, Director (Black Fruits), Germany + The Gambia
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Moderator:
Zachary Ntim, International Film Reporter, Deadline, UK + Ghana
Session Outline: In recent years, filmmakers have increasingly embraced innovative methods of storytelling, challenging traditional narrative structures and redefining genres in the process. This evolution in filmmaking has given rise to genre bending and blending, where distinct genres merge to create fresh, engaging experiences for audiences. At the heart of this shift is the desire to explore complex themes and characters that reflect the intricacies of modern life.
9.55 - 10.35 AM
Panel 2
Unlocking the connection between authenticity and audience engagement
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Jane Spencer, Award Winning Screenwriter, Producer, USA
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Ozzy Agu, Actor, TV Host, Founder, FarSide Moon Media, Nigeria
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Mounia Aram, President, Mounia Aram Company, France + Morocco
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Moderator:
Lauand Omar, Director, Producer, Germany + Syria + Mexico
Session Outline: How to find the right point of intersection between finding an audience and honing a unique filmmaking voice, and therefore creating the magic. How to integrate commercial considerations with a strong personal vision and create impactful content that resonates with viewers and stands the test of time in the industry.
10.40 - 11.20 AM
Panel 3
Closing the gap: revolutionizing film marketing and distribution for African/Afro-Focused Content
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Audrey Kamga, Sales Manager, ARTE Distribution, France + Cameroon
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Richard Lorber, Chairman & CEO, Kino Lorber Media Group, USA
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Phil McKenzie, Producer, Financier and Co-Founder of Goldfinch & Myco, UK
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Moderator:
Jean-Alexander "Sacha" Ntivyihabwa, Writer, Producer, CEO, Signed Media, Germany + Burundi
Session Outline: For too long, the incredible stories and talents emerging from Africa and its diaspora have struggled to reach a global audience. While the creative landscape is brimming with compelling narratives, impactful filmmaking, and unique perspectives, the challenges of effective marketing and distribution often act as a significant barrier. This panel explores the critical need to bridge this gap and the innovative approaches being explored to finally bring African/Afro-focused content to the forefront.
11.30 - 12.10 PM
Panel 4
Leveling up your lens: navigating career development, training, and residencies in filmmaking
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Zaid Shaker, Acting Executive Director, Film AlUla, Saudi Arabia
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Terry Jerry A’Wase, Executive Secretary African Film Institute, The African Union
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Moderator:
Rodney Charles, Actor, Screenwriter, Producer, Founder, Perennial Lens, Co-Founder, 3A African Artists Association, UK + USA + Grenada + Germany
Session Outline: The vibrant and diverse landscape of African cinema and emerging film markets are experiencing a powerful renaissance, with compelling stories flourishing across Africa and the Global South. However, the path for aspiring filmmakers often faces significant hurdles, including limited access to resources, training, and international networks. Enter the transformative power of institutions tasked with nurturing the growth of local creatives, as well as international residencies and mentorship programs – vital catalysts in nurturing talent, broadening horizons, and shaping the future of filmmaking in the Global South.
12.15 -12.55 PM
Panel 5
The role of public policies in amplifying African countries' cultural sovereignty
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Lison Diomande Johnson, Managing Director, National Film Center of Côte d'Ivoire, Côte d’Ivoire
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Adama Konkobo, Managing Director, KSM Films, Film Commissioner, Côte d’Ivoire
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Cyrielle Raingou, Filmmaker, Founder, Je Capture Ma Réalité Film Production, Cameroon
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Phil Mbabazi Sharangabo, Founder, Imitana Films, Rwanda
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Enrico Chiesa, Head of the Film Department, OIF (La Francophonie), France
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Moderator:
Simone McIntyre, Actress, Producer, Jamaica + UK
Session Outline: Public policies are essential in promoting cultural sovereignty as they provide a framework for protecting and promoting cultural heritage. Governments can use public policies to create an enabling environment for cultural expression, ensuring that cultural practices are protected and promoted. Public funding, specifically, reinforce film creators and help them keep hold of their narratives, artistic choices, IP, film shares and revenue.
1.00 - 1.40 PM
Panel 6
Innovative and out of the box film financing methods and methodologies using tech
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Chris Perez, Partner, Donaldson, Callif Perez, USA
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Steven Adams, Founder, Alta Global Media, Co-Founder, HollyShorts Film Festival, USA
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Moderator:
Zubi Mohammed, Writer, Producer, Magnussen Media Group, USA + Nigeria
Session Outline: In this session, we will explore creative and unconventional approaches to film financing that can empower filmmakers, particularly in emerging markets. These methods include crowdfunding platforms, blockchain tech, brand partnerships, social impact bonds, virtual reality and new media.
1.45 - 2.30 PM
Panel 7
The reel balancing act: policymakers, filmmakers, and the future of cinema
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Mayada Adil, United Nations Young Leader for Sustainable Development Goals, Sudan
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Lene Børglum, Producer, Film Finance Expert, Founder, Space Rocket Nation, Denmark
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Dr. Ali Nuhu, Managing Director, Nigeria Film Corporation, Nigeria
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Moderator:
Terry Jerry A’Wase, Executive Director, African Film Institute, The African Union
Session Outline: How to walk the tightrope between balancing the rights of filmmakers and heeding the film industry’s need for growth, monetization and a sustainable future? How to safeguard filmmakers’ rights while fostering opportunities that stimulate growth across the ecosystem from cinema to online platforms and new monetization models?
2.35 - 3.25 PM
Panel 8
The transformative power of playing uniquely diverse characters in film and TV
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Alexander Karim, Actor, Screenwriter, Sweden + Uganda
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Aissatou Diallo Sagna, Actress, Les César Winner, France + Guinea
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Nataly Kudiabor, Managing Director, UFA Fiction, Germany + Ghana
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Lamin Leroy Gibba, Writer, Producer, Director (Black Fruits), Germany + The Gambia
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Moderator:
Simone McIntyre, Actress, Producer, Jamaica + UK
Session Outline: Exploring how portraying a range of characters can not only enhance an actor's craft but also contribute to a richer and more nuanced portrayal of society in film and television. What is the impact of diverse character representation on societal perspectives in media? How a talent’s range can shape cultural narratives on screen?
3.30 - 3.55 PM
Panel 9
Bridging Continents Through Film and TV: Get a better understanding of European-African Co-Productions through science
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Prof. Dr. Daniela Schlütz, Professor of Theory and Empiricism of Digital Media and Vice President Research, Transfer & Start Ups, Konrad Wolf Film University Babelsberg, Germany
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Students from Konrad Wolf Film University Babelsberg, Germany
Moderator:​
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Moderator:
Ravi Karmalker, Director, Producer, Founder, Good Karma Productions International, Germany + India + Kenya
Session Outline: The global film industry is increasingly recognizing the immense creative potential that lies in cross-cultural collaborations. Among these, the partnership between European and African filmmakers and storytellers holds particular promise. However, successful co-productions require more than just shared aspirations; they demand a nuanced understanding of cultural landscapes, equitable practices, and strategic planning. On the German side, the venerable Film University Babelsberg Konrad Wolf is now undertaking this task, where young German researchers are gathering scientific data in dialogue with African filmmakers, which could serve as a basis for improved collaboration across the continent.
4.00 - 4.35 PM
Panel 10
THE OSCAR MICHEAUX DISCUSSION | The wild ride of emerging and independent filmmaking: before the Red Carpet, a
playground of possibilities (and limited resources and hurdles)
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Baker Karim, Director, Producer, Founder, Bad Flaming Studios, Sweden + Uganda
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Caroline Heim, Producer, FilmCrew Media, Germany
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Naomi Beukes, Screenwriter, Producer, Germany + Namibia
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Moderator:
Filson Ali, Producer, Founder, Camera X, Sweden + Somalia
Session Outline: In this panel, we will explore the unique stories of resilience, adaptability, and ability to collaborate effectively for emerging or more experienced filmmakers who have navigated uncharted territories with an unwavering belief in their stories.
4.40 - 5.15 PM
Panel 11
Negotiating co-production agreements in differing legal or policy environments
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Chris Perez, Partner, Donaldson, Callif Perez, USA
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Luiz Toledo, Founder, Filomena Productions, Brazil
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Maisha Mosala, Production Analyst, KwaZulu Natal Tourism Authority, South Africa
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Clarence Rolle, Director of Global Communications, Film Commissioner, The Bahamas Tourism Authority, The Bahamas
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Moderator:
Rodney Charles, Actor, Screenwriter, Producer, Founder, Perennial Lens, Co-Founder, 3A African Artists Association, UK + USA + Grenada + Germany
Session Outline: A producer in Gaborone wants to work with producer from Berlin and New York. How does one navigating the complexities of co-production agreements across different legal and policy environments? Beyond employing careful planning, expert legal advice, and a collaborative spirit what does it take to work on projects between countries where there are no co-production treaties, different copyrights or film production regulations. How to pave the way for a flourishing global content landscape where creativity transcends borders?
5.20 - 6.00 PM
Panel 12
A different side of DR Congo with Rumba Royale
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Fally Ipupa, Singer & Actor, France + DR Congo (Lead actor in Rumba Royale) | via Zoom
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Hamed Mobasser, Director, Producer of Rumba Royale, Belgium + Iran
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Kevin Dwyer, Screenwriter, Lecturer, Belgium + USA
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Ronny Law, Cinematographer, Producer, USA | via Zoom
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Mélanie Bokata, Actress, France + DR Congo
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Moderator:
Diana Lodderhose, International Features Editor, Deadline, UK
Session Outline: In this panel we will discuss Rumba Royale, The making of from various perspectives, the lead actor, the lead actress, the producer/director, the DOP and the writer.
Day 2 - Monday 17, February 2025
9.05 - 9.35 AM
Panel 13
Lights, Camera, Action… and Sustainability! More than greenwashing...
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Birgit Heidsiek, Founder, European Center for Sustainability in the Media World, Germany
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Daniel Bezares, Director of Photography, Co-Founder, X, Sweden + Guatemala
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Lilis Soares, Director of Photography, Brazil
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Moderator:
Kylie Figueroa, Writer, Producer, USA + UK
Session Outline:Sustainable filmmaking is a holistic approach that integrates environmental responsibility into every stage of the filmmaking process. Eco-efficiency, in particular, hones in on maximizing output while minimizing waste and resource consumption. This means achieving the desired creative vision while leaving the smallest possible footprint. So what does it mean for productions in the Global South which are characterized by their efficient use of environmentally conscious methods and little energy to produce content? So what credits or support can be gained?
9.40 - 9.55 AM
Conversation 1
Animation in the Afrosphere: forging an identity and fueling an industry
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Francis Yushau Brown, Award Winning Animator, Founder, AnimaxFYB Studio, Ghana | via Zoom
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Moderator: Papayaw "PY" Annan-Addo Boateng, Actor, Producer, Founder "Bless the Mike", Founder, MiPrime Entertainment, Ghana
Session Outline: Animation, once largely perceived as a medium dominated by Western or Far East narratives, is undergoing a vibrant transformation. Across the African continent and its diaspora – the Afrosphere – animation is emerging as a powerful tool for cultural expression, storytelling, and economic empowerment. More than just entertainment, animation is becoming a means to solidify identity and build a sustainable, homegrown industry.
10.00 - 11.00 AM
Panel 14
THE HATTIE MCDANIEL Discussion | Reclaiming the narrative: breaking free from limitations
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Betty Sulty-Johnson, Founder, Habebo Studios, Member, Les César Awards Committee, Martinique + Guadeloupe - France
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Chioma Ude, Founder, African International Film Festival, Lagos, Nigeria
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Dana Sims, Talent Agent, Industry Entertainment, USA
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Lyara de Oliveira, President, Sao Paulo Audiovisual Company, Brazil
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Mayada Adil, United Nations Young Leader for Sustainable Development Goals, Sudan
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Moderator:
Paula Essam, Actress, Germany + Cameroon
Session Outline: This panel discusses the rich diversity and powerful experiences of women in the filmmaking world. More than just epresentation and beyond empowerment.
11.05 - 11.50 AM
Panel 15
Beyond the Headshot: decoding the mind of a casting director and the power of inclusive storytelling
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Cassandra Han, Founder, Cassandra Han Casting, USA + Germany
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Luci Lenox, Casting Director & Founder of the Actors Home, Ireland + Spain
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Christopher Simon, Producer, CEO, New Sparta Productions, UK
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Bradley Iyamu, Founder, Black Universe Agency, Germany + Nigeria
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Moderator:
Caprice Crawford, Founder, Crawford Talents, USA + Germany
Session Outline: The world of film, television, and theatre is often described as a collaborative art form, and at its heart lies the crucial work of the casting director. While their name might not be a household one, their role is pivotal in shaping the narratives we consume and the characters we connect with. More than just matching faces to roles, casting directors are storytellers in their own right, tasked with bringing scripts to life with authenticity and impact. And increasingly, they are at the forefront of advocating for diverse representation in the stories we see on screen and stage.
11.55 - 12.25 PM
Panel 16
Beyond the blockbuster: innovative distribution channels reshaping film in emerging markets
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Simon Tchokonte, Founder, Dalino Media, France + Cameroon
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Sharon Mindot, Producer , Project Manager, Some Fine Day Pix, Kenya
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Wendy Bernfeld, Founder, Rights Stuff, The Netherlands
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Moderator:
Terry Jerry A'Wase, Executive Director, African Film Institute, The African Union
Session Outline: The global film industry is constantly evolving, but the changes are particularly striking in emerging markets. While Hollywood still holds sway in many regions, a dynamic landscape of innovative distribution channels is rapidly transforming how films are made, seen, and consumed. Driven by technological advancements, evolving consumer preferences, and a need to reach audiences beyond traditional cinemas, these new approaches are not just disrupting the norm, they are creating exciting opportunities for filmmakers and viewers alike.
12.30 - 1.00 PM
Panel 17
The collaborative canvas: co-commissioning and co-production trends shaping the modern film landscape
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Danica Robinson-Liles, Co-Founder, COO, West End Studios Jamaica, Jamaica
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Francis Nébot, Producer, Founder, iFind, Pictures, France
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Sydney Levine, Founder, SydneysBuzz, USA
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Moderator:
Kylie Figueroa, Producer, Lecturer, USA + UK
Session Outline: The collaborative canvas: co-commissioning and co-production trends shaping the modern film landscape
1.05 - 1.20 PM
Conversation 2
The AI frontier and conundrum: a candid look at copyrights and legal minefields: Who owns what?
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Chris Perez, Partner, Donaldson Callif Perez, USA
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Moderator:
Rodney Charles, Actor, Screenwriter, Producer, Founder, Perennial Lens, Co-Founder, 3A African Artists Association, UK + USA + Grenada + Germany
Session Outline: This panel discussion will tentatively try to answer the pressing question: Who owns what?
1.25 - 2.00 PM
Panel 18
THE MED HONDO Discussion | Storytellers beyond the mainstream: Creating a richer cinematic tapestry
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Aysha Joy Samuel, Actress, Germany + Trinidad & Tobago
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Yirgashewa Teshome, Filmmaker, Founder, Ethiopia International Film Festival, Ethiopia | Via Zoom
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Piotr Bartuszek, Casting Director, Member, Polish Film Academy, Poland
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Moderator:
Filson Ali, Founder, Camera X, Sweden + Somalia
Session Outline: The world of film, television, and theatre is often described as a collaborative art form, and at its heart lies the crucial work of the casting director. While their name might not be a household one, their role is pivotal in shaping the narratives we consume and the characters we connect with. More than just matching faces to roles, casting directors are storytellers in their own right, tasked with bringing scripts to life with authenticity and impact. And increasingly, they are at the forefront of advocating for diverse representation in the stories we see on screen and stage.
2.05 - 2.50 PM
Panel 19
The Symphony of sight and sound: where film and music meet (Introduction to Afro Film Music Day)
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Malik Berrabah, Owner, Wisseloord, Founder, Wisseloord Academy, France + Algeria + The Netherlands | Via Zoom
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Jerome Sydenham, Music Producer, Performing Artist, Record Label Founder, Ibadan Studios, UK + Nigeria + Jamaica
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Moderator:
Papayaw "PY" Annan-Addo Boateng, Actor, Producer, Founder "Bless the Mike", Founder, MiPrime Entertainment, Ghana​
Session Outline: Music and film have a symbiotic relationship where visuals evoke emotion and music amplifies that feeling, creating a powerful, immersive experience for the viewer. But beyond the artistic collaboration, the intersection of these two art forms offers a multitude of monetization opportunities for creators on both sides. This panel will explore how music and film collide and what are and/or could be the key monetization avenues for music producers in the film industry (including licensing, composing/production fees, royalties, publishing rights, points...). Panelists will share their individual experience in their respective area.
2.55 - 3.35 PM
Panel 20
The reel struggle: mental health and the pursuit of filmmaking success
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Jessica Sy, Actress, Writer, Producer, Germany + Jamaica
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Lina Zaraket, Actress, Screenwriter, Germany + Lebanon + Spain
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Nadia Kibout, Actress, Author, Director, Italy + Algeria
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Moderator:
Rodney Charles, Actor, Screenwriter, Producer, Founder, Perennial Lens, Co-Founder, 3A African Artists Association, UK + USA + Grenada + Germany
Session Outline: The glitz and glamour of the film industry often mask a challenging reality for those behind the camera. Filmmaking, a profession fueled by passion and creativity, can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, it's also a demanding landscape that often takes a toll on mental well-being. The pursuit of success, while driving, can also become a breeding ground for anxiety, stress, and even more serious mental health challenges. From the initial stages of ideation and fundraising to hours on set and the nerve-wracking post-production phase, filmmakers navigate a constant barrage of pressures. How to manage all these pressure points and prioritize mental well-being.
3.45 - 4.25 PM
Panel 21
AI & the Afroverse: blurring lines, amplifying voices, or building new walls?
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Darryl Marks, Founder & CEO, Adapt Entertainment, USA | Via Zoom
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Zubi Mohammed, Writer, Producer, Magnussen Media Group, USA + Nigeria
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Shamila Lengsfeld, Director, AI Filmmaker, Germany + Iran
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Moderator:
Rodney Charles, Actor, Screenwriter, Producer, Founder, Perennial Lens, Co-Founder, 3A African Artists Association, UK + USA + Grenada + Germany
Session Outline: The African diaspora is a vibrant tapestry woven with rich cultural traditions, powerful stories, and an indomitable spirit of creativity. Now, a new thread is being added to this tapestry: Artificial Intelligence. The convergence of AI with the Afroverse – the universe of narratives, characters, and worlds rooted in African and Black experiences – presents both exhilarating possibilities and complex challenges, particularly for independent filmmakers and creatives with limited resources.
4.30 - 5.10 PM
Panel 22
Packaging your unconventional gem for buyers: the long game
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Jennifer Okafor-Iwuchukwu, Manager, Former Agent, CAA. USA + Nigeria | Via Zoom
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Dana Sims, Talent Agent, Industry Entertainment, USA
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Effie T. Brown, Founder, Game Changer Films, USA (Producer Real Women Have Curves, Dear White People), recipient, Independent Spirit Awards, USA
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Chris Regina, Chief Content Officer, TCL America, former Director of Original Drama Series Development at Netflix | Via Zoom
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Moderator:
Ravi Karmalker, Director, Producer, Founder, Good Karma Productions International, Germany + India + Kenya
Session Outline: Your content is unique. But that very uniqueness, while your creative strength, can be a hurdle when trying to attract buyers. How do you package and market a film that defies easy categorization to distributors and platforms? It requires a different approach, one that embraces the unusual while highlighting its potential.
5.15 - 5.55 PM
Panel 23
The continuous evolution of film and the crucial role of film promotion and marketing
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Ozzy Agu, Actor, Film Marketing Expert, Founder, FarSide Moon Media, Nigeria
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Karl Hillbrick, Producer, Founder, Infilmpact, Germany + Australia
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Clarence Rolle, Director of Global Communications, Film Commissioner, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, The Bahamas
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Moderator:
Tithey Schulz, Marketing & Branding Expert, Founder, VitaminBlack, Germany + Haiti
Session Outline: The world of film is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, where the creation of captivating stories is only half the battle. The other half lies in effectively promoting and marketing those stories to reach a wide audience. Film promotion and marketing play a crucial role in the success of a film, festivals, film marketing experts, and film commissions serve as essential partners in this process. Film promotion and marketing encompass a range of activities aimed at generating interest, engagement, and excitement for a film. This includes trailers, posters, social media campaigns, public relations efforts, and partnerships with brands and influencers. The goal of film promotion and marketing is to create a buzz around the film and attract audiences to watch it in theaters or on streaming platforms.
Day 3 - Tuesday 18, February 2025
9.20 - 9.40 AM
Presentation
Introduction to the monetization opportunities for music producers
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Sydney Levine, Founder, SydneysBuzz,, Creator, Afro Film Music Days, USA
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Moderator:
Papayaw "PY" Annan-Addo Boateng, Actor, Producer, Founder "Bless the Mike", Founder, MiPrime Entertainment, Ghana​
Session Outline: The film industry, a vibrant tapestry of storytelling and visual artistry, often overlooks the crucial role of music in shaping the emotional landscape. While composers traditionally hold the spotlight, music producers are quietly becoming indispensable, wielding their technical prowess and creative vision to elevate soundtracks and amplify the impact of cinematic narratives. But beyond the credits, what are the actual monetization prospects for these often unsung heroes? Traditionally, music producers in film have faced a limited scope for financial gain, primarily relying on negotiated fees for their time and expertise.
9.50 - 11.00 AM
Panel 24
Beyond the beat: unlocking African soundscapes for a for global film productions
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Kulanen Ikyo, Composer, The Black Book, Nigeria | Via Zoom
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Christoph Becker, Managing Director, Constantin Film/Music, Germany
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Editi Effiong, Director of The Black Book, Producer, Founder, Anakle Films, Nigeria | Via Zoom
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Jerome Sydenham, Music Producer, Performing Artist, Record Label Founder, Ibadan Studios, UK + Nigeria + Jamaica
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Ré Olunuga, Music Composer, Artistic Director, Nigeria
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Moderator:
Jean-Alexander "Sacha" Ntivyihabwa, Writer, Producer, CEO, Signed Media, Germany + Burundi
Session Outline: The world of film scores is a diverse and captivating landscape, yet a significant gap exists in international recognition for composers drawing inspiration from the rich musical traditions of Africa and the African diaspora. While Hollywood and European scores often dominate the global conversation, a wealth of sonic talent remains largely untapped, hindering the visibility of African and African diasporic film music on the world stage. This limited understanding of African and African Diasporic musical heritage is a key barrier for composers seeking international success. While the global audience has become more receptive to diverse storytelling, the music accompanying these narratives often lags behind in terms of varied representation. This panel discussion will explore ways to engage and prosper.
11.15 - 12.20 PM
Panel 25
Beyond the score: Understanding the world of representation for music composers
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Hamish Duff, Talent Agent, Managing Director, First Artist Management, UK
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Sophie Urquhart, Founder, Tin Drum Music, UK
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Ré Olunuga, Music Composer, Artistic Director, Nigeria
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Moderator:
Simone McIntyre, Actress, Producer, Jamaica + UK
Session Outline: In the competitive world of music, a composer's talent is only half the battle. Navigating contracts, licensing, and securing opportunities demands a savvy advocate: a skilled agent. But what does "agent representation" truly mean for a music composer, and how can it be leveraged for a thriving career?
12.30 - 1.40 PM
Panel 26
How can music composers find their voice and their paycheck in the film industry?
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Godwin Tom, Managing Director, Sony Music Publishing Nigeria, Nigeria | Via Zoom
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Keziah Myers, Executive Director ADVANCE Music Canada | Via Zoom
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Marc du Moulin, Secretary General, ECSA (European Composers & Songwriters Alliance, Belgium
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Gitte Bendzulla, Chief Operations Officer, Deezer, France
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Moderator:
Papayaw "PY" Annan-Addo Boateng, Producer, TV Host, Presenter of Bless the Mike, Founder, MiPrime Entertainment, Ghana
Session Outline: Film music is often described as the invisible art. It’s the emotional undercurrent, the dramatic pulse, the subtle (or not so-subtle) force that shapes how we experience a movie. But while the power of a great score is undeniable, the compensation for the creatives behind it, the film music composers, has historically been less than crystal clear. Thankfully, the landscape is changing. Composers are gaining more control and finding innovative ways to monetize their talent in the ever-evolving world of filmmaking. For years, the primary income source for film composers has been their upfront fee, negotiated per project. This was often a flat rate, with little to no ongoing revenue sharing. However, the rise of digital distribution, streaming services, and new technological avenues have opened up a Pandora's Box of monetization opportunities.
1.50 - 3.00 PM
Panel 27
he algorithmic score: understanding music rights, royalties, and legal issues for film composers in the age of
AI
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Akotchayé Okio, International Development Officer, SACEM, France + Benin
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Samuel Sangwa, Regional Director Africa, CISAC, Rwanda
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Ingrid Adjoa Yeboah, Lawyer, Founder IY.LEGAL, Germany + Ghana
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Tosin Amire, Media Composer & Sound Designer, Sound Insights Production, Nigeria | Via Zoom
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Moderator:
Papayaw "PY" Annan-Addo Boateng, Actor, Producer, Founder "Bless the Mike", Founder, MiPrime Entertainment, Ghana​
Session Outline: The world of film scoring is undergoing a seismic shift. Artificial intelligence, once a futuristic concept, is now a tangible tool capable of generating sophisticated music across genres. For film music composers, this presents both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges, particularly when navigating the complex landscape of music rights, royalties, and legal considerations.
3.10 - 4.20 PM
Panel 28
The Rhythm of representation: navigating the business of music in film while amplifying African and African Diasporic voices
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Tyron Ricketts, Actor, Producer, Activist, Founder, Panthertainment, Germany + Austria + Jamaica
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Jerome Sydenham, Music Producer, Performing Artist, Record Label Founder, Owner, Ibadan Studios, UK + Nigeria + Jamaica
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Moderator:
Tithey Schulz, Marketing & Branding Expert, Founder, VitaminBlack, Germany + Haiti
Session Outline: Navigating the business of music in film for artists of African descent The intertwining of music and film is a powerful alchemy. It elevates storytelling, evokes emotion, and imprints itself on our cultural consciousness. However, the landscape of music in film, like the broader entertainment industry, hasn't always been equitable. For artists of African descent, navigating the business of film scores, soundtracks, and on-screen performances has been a journey marked by both significant strides and persistent hurdles. Historically, film scores have often been dominated by a particular aesthetic, frequently rooted in European classical traditions. While undeniably impactful, this can inadvertently limit the representation of diverse musical viewpoints. For composers of African descent, breaking into this space has required navigating a system that may not prioritize or understand their unique sonic palettes.
4.30 - 5.30 PM
Roundtable Talk
Filmmakers discuss their relationship to music in their films and answer audience’s questions
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Hamish Duff, Talent Agent, Managing Director, First Artist Management, UK
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Sophie Urquhart, Founder, Tin Drum Music, UK
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Ré Olunuga, Music Composer, Artistic Director, Nigeria
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Moderator:
Papayaw "PY" Annan-Addo Boateng, Actor, Producer, Founder "Bless the Mike", Founder, MiPrime Entertainment, Ghana​
Session Outline: Music in film isn't just background noise; it's a powerful narrative tool, a silent protagonist that can amplify emotions, foreshadow events, and deepen character understanding. Recently, a panel of accomplished filmmakers gathered to discuss their intricate relationship with music in their work, offering insights into their collaborative processes, the challenges they face, and the often-unseen impact of a well-placed note. This lively audience Q&A, will reveal the diverse approaches filmmakers take when weaving sound into their visual narratives. One common thread may emerge: the importance of early collaboration with composers.