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For 12 weeks, 20 emerging Beninese filmmakers from the Republic of Benin have come together from Cotonou to Lagos, and then to KAP Film Village & Resort in Oyo State, Nigeria, immersing themselves in an intensive filmmaking journey, developing their craft, finding their voices and transforming ideas into stories that shape African cinema.


The KAP–SOPA Filmmaking Bootcamp is a Pan-African partnership between KAP Film & Television Academy and the Government of the Republic of Benin, through her audiovisual agency, Société de Productions Audiovisuelles (SOPA). The programme kicked off in July and has been running for 12 weeks.


Built around the theme “Owning the Narrative,” the programme has equipped a new generation of African filmmakers with the skills and confidence they need to tell their own authentic stories and contribute meaningfully to the Pan-African film industry.


FROM TRAINING TO THE BIG SCREEN


After 12 weeks of intensive hands-on training and filmmaking, the participants are now ready to showcase the outstanding short films they have developed, pouring into them all the knowledge and skills imparted throughout the programme.


The journey will culminate in the KAP–SOPA Graduation Ceremony and Film Premiere, celebrating their achievements, creativity and the power of cross-border collaboration.


A NEW CHAPTER FOR AFRICAN CINEMA

The KAP-SOPA filmmaking bootcamp demonstrates what is possible when African creative institutions and governments invest in talent and collaborate across borders.


From Nigeria to Benin and beyond, the programme is helping to build stronger connections within Africa’s film ecosystem, creating opportunities for emerging filmmakers to learn, collaborate and take their stories to wider audiences.


SEPTEMBER 17–18, 2026

As we celebrate the achievements of this new generation of certified Pan-African filmmakers, notable professional filmmakers, industry leaders, creative professionals, partners, investors and cinema lovers will be present to witness this milestone, a two-day celebration of African storytelling, film, culture and collaboration.


The gathering will feature international film practitioners including Keith Shiri, Femi Odugbemi, Virginie Besson-Silla, Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Jean-Pierre Bekolo, alongside other notable veterans of African cinema.

Beyond graduation, something grander that, has been birthed…

ITAN - THE SCREEN GATHERING & AWARDS

ITAN is a new platform designed to bring together filmmakers, industry professionals, creative institutions, investors, people and stories shaping African cinema. Scheduled to be unveiled at the graduation ceremonies, ITAN will be an annual feature at KAP Film Village & Resort once it formally launces in October 2027.

JOIN THE JOURNEY

Interested in partnering with or sponsoring the event?

KAP Film & Television Academy
📞 0903 799 0799

ABOUT KAP FILM & TELEVISION ACADEMY

Founded by acclaimed filmmaker Kunle Afolayan in 2021, KAP Film & Television Academy is dedicated to developing Africa’s next generation of filmmakers through practical, industry-focused education.

The Academy has trained over 100,000 students through physical and online programmes, expanding access to quality film education across Nigeria and beyond.

Training Filmmakers. Building Industry. Shaping Africa’s Stories.