22nd December, 2023
By Taiwo Okanlawon
Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts (LAPA), in collaboration with global streaming platform Netflix, has trained Nigerian actors and screenwriters as a means of promoting local talent and Nigerian stories on the global stage.
The milestone collaboration was made possible through the Netflix Fund for Creative Equity, targeted at identifying, training, and providing job placements for next-generation talents from under-represented communities globally.
Ronya Man Art and ACCELERATE TV joined the academy as technical and creative sponsors, as both offer expertise and creativity support to ensure a quality and successful project.
Selected actors and screenwriters received hands-on training and guidance from industry experts during the program and participated in an ensuing local production that will introduce them to a new audience.
Industry experts to selected trainees include Ajoke Silva, Toyin Oshinaike, Adeniran Makinde, Bunmi Adewale, Omonor Somolu, Ronya Man, and Tosan Ugbeye as acting instruments; Zara Ejoh as movement instructor; Juliet Akighir Onyekachukwu as Voice Instructor; and Netflix-trained Story Development Executive, Ololade Okedare and Eniola Ayobola as screenwriting instructors.
Speaking of the partnership, LAPA’s co-CEO, Ajoke Silva said, “We are excited to partner with Netflix on this groundbreaking initiative. The Academy has always been committed to promoting the Nigerian arts and entertainment industry, and this partnership is a significant step towards achieving that aim.
“We are confident that the selected actors and writers will gain invaluable skills and experience through this programme, and we look forward to seeing them contribute to the growth and development of the industry.”