Applications for the program to advance women in the African animation industry are open now until January 5, 2025; opportunity is open to talent across Africa, with a Director Lab for aspiring directors and an Animation Art Lab for artists.
African animation studio Triggerfish has teamed with UNESCO to launch The Creator Labs, an initiative to advance women in the African animation industry.
The African film and audiovisual industries contribute an estimated USD $5 billion to the continent's GDP and employ over 5 million people. However, UNESCO asserts women of color are underrepresented in leadership roles within the sector.
“UNESCO’s publication on the African film sector highlighted a major gap in education and training across the continent – and it disproportionately affects women,” said Ernesto Ottone R, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture. “The new partnership with Triggerfish Foundation is an important part of responding to these existing needs. Through technical and vocational education in animation production, we’ll contribute to enhancing career opportunities in TV and filmmaking among women.”
“Empowering African women in animation is not just a goal; it’s a necessity,” added Carina Lücke, Director of the Triggerfish Foundation. “Through this collaboration with UNESCO, we aim to advance gender equality in animation. By prioritizing leadership positions throughout the pipeline, we're not only cultivating creativity and innovation but also dismantling obstacles for a more inclusive and diverse industry.”
The Creator Labs are open to talent across Africa, with a Director Lab for aspiring directors and an Animation Art Lab for artists. Participants will have access to masterclass sessions led by award-winning industry professionals, small group mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities designed to advance talent to leadership roles within the animation sector.
Training materials developed through the labs will be made freely accessible online through the Triggerfish Academy, ensuring that aspiring African creatives everywhere can benefit from these valuable resources.
The Labs are crafted with guidance from award-winning directors and art directors. Esteemed contributors include Ng’endo Mukii, Tshepo Moche, and Caroline Vos (Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire), Cinzia Angelini (Hit Pig!), Nadia Darries (Star Wars Visions Vol. 2), and many more pioneering African creators.
Applications for The Creator Labs are open now until January 5, 2025. Online masterclasses and mentoring sessions are scheduled to run from March - May 2025. Submit applications and access additional information here.
Source: Triggerfish
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
