OBI: Capacity building key to creation of hubs in Africa

The Screen Centre, an organization dedicated to cultivating the creative industry ecosystem in Africa, believes that investing in capacity building and establishing hubs is vital for the continent to thrive in the creative landscape. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Golda Obi, the Executive Director at the Screen Centre, emphasized the importance of judicious use of seed funding in nurturing homegrown talent. Obi highlighted the transformative power of events like CanX in shaping the narrative around African art and creativity. She noted the shift from seeking validation from the West to embracing and leveraging the market within the continent. CanX has played a significant role in showcasing the untapped potential and the demand for African content, empowering creatives to break barriers and explore global opportunities.Obi elaborated on the Screen Centre's evolution in response to the changing dynamics of the industry. Over the past 17 years, the organization has transitioned from individual artist development to fostering a collaborative ecosystem through hubs. The focus now is on equipping creatives with the necessary skills to thrive in a multidisciplinary environment. By bringing together various talents such as fashion designers, scriptwriters, film producers, and actors, the Screen Centre aims to nurture holistic growth and sustainable success. The emphasis is not just on honing artistic abilities but also on instilling a deep understanding of the business side of the industry. Through incubation, mentorship, and guidance on utilizing seed funding effectively, the Screen Centre aims to empower creatives to launch successful ventures and achieve long-term viability. The ultimate goal is to create a self-sustaining cycle of growth and innovation within the African creative ecosystem.Reflecting on the impact of CanX, Obi acknowledged the profound shift in perspective towards the African market. Instead of trying to conform to Western standards, the event has underscored the potential of a 'global Africa' with its own unique identity and consumer base. This realization has sparked a renewed sense of confidence and purpose among creatives, urging them to capitalize on the vast opportunities within the continent and beyond. By fostering a sense of belonging and ownership within the global creative landscape, events like CanX are reshaping the narrative and empowering African artists to claim their space on the world stage.Golda Obi's insights underscore the transformative power of capacity building and collaboration in nurturing a vibrant creative industry in Africa. As the continent embraces its rich cultural heritage and diverse talents, investments in hubs and skill development are poised to drive sustainable growth and foster a new era of creativity and innovation.