Ike Nnaebue’s Apprentice Filmmakers Go Global 

Nigerian international multiple award-winning filmmaker, Ike Nnaebue, has taken the age-long Igbo apprenticeship system to the international stage with his filmmaking apprenticeship program.

The acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker, Ike Nnaebue’s Apprentice Filmmakers have joined forces with film students from Bournemouth University, England, and the Film University Babelsberg KONRAD WOLF, Germany, in an educational and creative project titled ‘A Letter From Across the Channel.’ 

The project, which is a notable exploration into the theory and practice of transnational cinema, was executed both in-person and virtually, leveraging technology to bridge the geographical divide. 

It kicked off with a one-hour lecture titled’ Introduction to Transnational Cinema,’ delivered by Dr. Samantha Iwowo, a Principal Academic in Directing at Bournemouth University. This was followed by a 30-minute interactive question and answer session.

Following the lecture, students were grouped into transnational teams, drawing members from both universities and Ike’s Apprentice Filmmakers via the LP House of Creatives in Nigeria. The teams embarked on a creative and challenging journey to ideate and produce short films under the collective theme of “A Letter from Across the Channel.” The films were based on a three-scene transnational screenplay, adaptable ad lib, and set in the locations of the participating universities and creative hub.

The project encouraged the use of smartphones for filming, emphasizing the consistency of the film’s overall texture. This aspect aims to demonstrate the innovative and resourceful nature of modern filmmaking.

The intensive project spanned a 72-hour period, providing a platform for students to develop, shoot, and edit their transnational film projects, culminating in an online screening and discussion event.

The  event was not only a learning opportunity but also a practical collaborative experience that underscores the importance of hands-on apprenticeship-style filmmaking training. 

Participation was exclusive to students of Bournemouth University, apprentices of Ike Nnaebue, and students of the Film University Babelsberg KONRAD WOLF, Germany.

Ike Nnaebue is a globally acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker known for his innovative and thought-provoking works in the world of cinema. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers is evident in his involvement in such transformative projects.

Through his innovative filmmaking apprenticeship program, and inspired by his own experiences in the Igbo apprenticeship system during his teenage years, Ike is pioneering a dynamic and practical approach to uplift and empower aspiring young filmmakers across Africa.

Ike’s Apprentice Filmmakers participate in a comprehensive two-year fellowship, mentored directly by Ike. Upon completion of their apprenticeship, they receive seed funding and essential equipment from Ike, empowering them to establish their own independent production companies.