Etta JoMaria Named Finalist for British Council Film Lab Africa 2

Nigerian actor, filmmaker and producer Etta JoMaria has emerged as one of seven finalists selected for the British Council’s Film Lab Africa 2 Producers Lab, following a competitive selection process that attracted more than 1,000 applications.

Delivered in partnership with EbonyLife Creative Academy and Iconic Steps, the Producers Lab is part of Film Lab Africa 2, the British Council’s flagship film and television accelerator programme.

The programme is designed to support emerging African filmmakers and industry professionals through practical training, mentorship and opportunities to develop original screen projects.
Etta’s selection places her among a group of emerging producers given the opportunity to further develop their skills while working on an original project through the programme.
Speaking of the experience, Etta said the programme has significantly broadened her understanding of what it means to be a creative producer and the responsibilities involved in taking a story from an idea to the screen.

“Being selected from over 1,000 applications was already a huge encouragement for me, but the real value has been everything I’ve learned throughout the programme. It has challenged me to look at producing beyond the administrative side and understand the producer as someone who is deeply involved in shaping the story and the creative vision,” she said.

According to Etta, the experience has also strengthened her confidence in working collaboratively with writers, directors and other members of a creative team.

“I’ve gained a much deeper understanding of creative producing, from shaping a story and working closely with a creative team to navigating the practical, strategic and collaborative demands of bringing a project from development to the screen. It has made me more confident in the decisions I make as a producer and more intentional about the kind of stories I want to tell,” she added.

She further noted that through the Producers Lab, she has gained practical insight into the producer’s role as both a creative and strategic force within filmmaking. The experience has further reinforced her commitment to developing stories that reflect African realities while connecting meaningfully with audiences.

“One of my biggest takeaways is that a producer has to be able to see both the creative and strategic sides of a project. You have to understand the story, the audience, the team and the realities of production, and find a way to bring all those elements together.
That is something I will continue to carry with me beyond this programme,” Etta said.

With seven finalists selected for the Producers Lab, the programme continues its focus on nurturing the next generation of African film and television professionals and equipping them with the skills, mentorship and industry exposure needed to develop original projects.