Realness Institute celebrates 10 years of supporting independent film and television storytellers across Africa through training, mentorship, and industry resources that strengthen creative careers.
— Realness Institute is marking 10 years of supporting independent film and television creators across Africa. The milestone reflects its ongoing commitment to strengthening creative careers through professional development, mentorship, and industry collaboration. Since its founding, the nonprofit has worked alongside writers, producers, and other screen professionals to help them develop original projects while building the skills, relationships, and practical knowledge needed to navigate the evolving film and television landscape.
The anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect on the institute’s journey and the vision that inspired its creation. While discussions about economic growth frequently focus on traditional industries, the creative sector also contributes to employment, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange. Recognizing the importance of accessible career pathways into the arts, Realness Institute was established to help independent artists develop sustainable careers while bringing distinctive African stories to audiences through film and television.
That vision was shaped by the experiences of Managing Director Mehret Mandefro, whose career has brought together medicine, filmmaking, and public service. After beginning her filmmaking journey while completing her medical residency, Mandefro came to view storytelling as a way to foster understanding, encourage dialogue, and create opportunities for artists. Her work in developing film and television productions, training emerging professionals, and contributing to initiatives focused on the creative economy informed the principles that continue to guide the institute today.
“Creative industries thrive when artists have opportunities to strengthen both their craft and their careers,” says Mandefro. “From the beginning, our focus has been on creating spaces where independent filmmakers and television creators can refine their work, build meaningful professional relationships, and continue growing as storytellers.”
Since its establishment, Realness Institute has developed programs that support creators at different stages of their professional journeys. The RLNS Screenwriters Residency provides dedicated space for feature film writers to transform treatments into completed screenplays. The Authentica African Series Lab supports television writers as they develop original series from concept to pitch, while the Creative Producer Indaba combines project development with business coaching for producers seeking to strengthen both creative and entrepreneurial practice. Together, these initiatives reflect an approach that values artistic development alongside practical industry knowledge.
Central to the institute’s philosophy is the belief that every creator brings a unique perspective to the screen. Rather than encouraging a single pathway to success, its programs are designed to help participants identify and strengthen what distinguishes their work. Through mentorship, peer collaboration, and engagement with experienced industry professionals, participants are encouraged to develop projects that remain authentic to their own creative voices while expanding their understanding of the business of film and television.
This approach also reflects a broader understanding of the role creative industries can play in supporting economic opportunity. Across Africa, film and television continue to create avenues for employment, entrepreneurship, and collaboration across a wide range of professions. By investing in the professional growth of independent artists, Realness Institute contributes to an ecosystem where creative talent can continue to develop alongside the industries that support it.
“Film and television are collaborative art forms, and meaningful careers are built through communities that invest in people as much as projects,” Mandefro states. “Over the past 10 years, we have been fortunate to work with remarkable artists whose dedication continues to shape the future of African storytelling. Their creativity and commitment inspire our work every day.”
As Realness Institute continues to grow, it also recognizes the many writers, producers, mentors, creative partners, and alumni who have contributed to its journey. Their collective efforts have helped foster a growing network of professionals committed to thoughtful collaboration, continuous learning, and creative excellence.
The institute remains dedicated to training, mentoring, and resourcing independent artists telling courageous stories for film and television. It will continue creating opportunities for creators to develop original work, expand professional networks, and contribute to a dynamic and evolving screen industry across Africa, while remaining guided by the belief that investing in artists is also an investment in the future of the continent’s creative economy.
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Name: Sheila Kassim
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Organization: Realness Institute
Website: https://realnessinstitute.com/
Release ID: 89199454
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