Nollywood actress and producer Etta JoMaria has emerged as one of seven finalists selected for the British Council Film Lab Africa 2 Producers Lab. This came after more than 1,000 applications were received from across the continent.
According to Vanguard, Etta described the selection as encouraging. However, she said the knowledge and experience gained through the programme have been even more valuable to her development as a producer.
Etta JoMaria reflects on Film Lab experience
“Being selected from over 1,000 applications was already a huge encouragement for me,” she said.
“But the real value has been everything I’ve learned. It has challenged me to look at producing beyond the administrative side. In addition, I now understand the producer as someone who is deeply involved in shaping the story and the creative vision.”
The Producers Lab forms part of Film Lab Africa 2. It is the British Council’s film and television development programme aimed at supporting emerging African filmmakers.
The programme is delivered in partnership with EbonyLife Creative Academy and Iconic Steps. It provides participants with practical training, mentorship and support for developing original screen projects.
Etta said the experience has also strengthened the way she approaches collaboration with writers, directors and other members of a creative team.
Programme boosts Etta’s confidence
According to the actress and producer, the programme has helped her better understand the creative and strategic responsibilities involved. This covers taking a film project from its early development stage to the screen.
“I’ve gained a much deeper understanding of creative producing, from shaping a story and working closely with a creative team. In addition, I have learned how to navigate the practical, strategic and collaborative demands of bringing a project from development to the screen,” she said.
Etta added that the experience has made her more confident about the choices she makes as a producer. In addition, she is more deliberate about the stories she wants to develop.
She said one of her biggest lessons from the programme was understanding that producers must balance creativity with the realities of filmmaking.
“You have to understand the story, the audience, the team and the realities of production. Then you must find a way to bring all those elements together,” she said.
Etta said she intends to carry the lessons from the Producers Lab into future projects. She continues developing stories rooted in African experiences while seeking to connect with audiences beyond the continent.
