UBA@75: UBA hosts creators, rewards documentary filmmakers
In line with its 75th-anniversary celebration, Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA), has demonstrated its commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s creative space by empowering storytellers, innovators, and filmmakers in Nigeria at its #UBACreatorsUnlocked.”
The event marked the culmination of UBA’s documentary challenge where winners emerged after a competition launched earlier in 2024 that invited creators to capture the bank’s 75-year legacy in compelling 75-seconds documentaries. The gathering brought together emerging talents, industry veterans, and creative professionals in a vibrant celebration of African creativity.
Notable personalities from Nigeria’s entertainment industry graced the occasion, including, acclaimed actor and director Daniel Etim Effiong, who shared valuable insights into navigating the creative industry successfully, popular Instagram content creator Meshkiey and many more.
In his address, veteran actor Daniel Etim Effiong shared his transformative career journey, detailing his bold decision to transition from a stable engineering career to pursue his passion for filmmaking and acting. “A few years ago, I left a secure engineering career to pursue my passion in film. Standing here today, I can tell you that following your creative instincts, despite the uncertainties, can lead to extraordinary fulfilment. The creative industry needs more brave souls willing to take that leap of faith, and initiatives like UBA Creators Unlocked are providing the safety net that many creators need to make that jump,” Daniel noted.
One of the competition’s top winners, Hannah Sampson, who received a $750 prize, shared her inspiring journey of how the prize money has made it possible for her to make her short films, which has been her lifelong dream.
“Being selected among the top three winners and receiving the $750 prize has enabled me to fulfil my lifelong dream of producing my short films. I will submit these films to festivals, and I’m immensely grateful to UBA for providing this platform and supporting my creative journey,”Sampson said.
Speaking at the event, Group Head, Corporate and Marketing Communications, Alero Ladipo, explained that UBA is passionate about the growth of the entertainment industry in Nigeria and has further expressed it in project #UBACreatorsUnlocked” a campaign put together to commemorate our anniversary.
“We are happy about the participation of creative film makers as this has further shown that talents abound in Nigeria, and our resolve to support any course that advances our nation remains unwavering,” said Ladipo.
Addressing the creatives at the event, Head, REDTV, Olufemi Bamigbetan reaffirmed UBA’s unwavering commitment to supporting both emerging and established talents in the industry.
