As HBO cancels “Project Greenlight” for good (the announcement was made about a week ago), on the other side of the Atlantic, in Nigeria, a somewhat similar new competitive TV series titled “First Stars” launches.

Produced by EbonyLife TV, the reality show will star young Nigerian filmmakers who will compete, under the mentorship of Nigerian cinema’s best, to win the converted opportunity to direct their very own feature film (also produced by EbonyLife TV). The 6-part series is made possible by First Bank of Nigeria, continuing their commitment to promoting the local creative arts industry.

“First Stars” currently airs across the continent wherever EbonyLife TV (DStv165) is carried.

The series is hosted by Zainab Balogun and Tosin Odunfa, and features EbonyLife TV CEO Mo Abudu, Award winning director Walt Banger, First Bank Nigeria executives, Producers Tolu Ajayi and Tosin Otudeko, renowned architect Theo Lawson and Nigerian Actors Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Iretiola Doyle and Deyemi Okanlawon, who will guide and mentor the participants through a series of creative challenges as well as a string of tense eliminations.

Winners of the competition series will receive cash prizes and funding to produce their very own feature films, which will be screened at theatres across Nigeria, and potentially beyond, kickstarting what will hopefully be lengthy and distinguished careers.

Watch a promo for the series below.