From stand up-comedian Basketmouth, to Nollywood star turned politician Kate Henshaw; from ICT expert Gbenga Sesan to fashion designer Deola Sagoe; from football coach Femi Bamigboye to female mechanic Sandra Aguebor; each film focuses on one central character, who invites us into their world, sharing their story in their own words.
“The series was commissioned specifically to support Al Jazeera English’s brand, ‘Hear The Human Story,’ to bring people’s stories directly to our screens, told in in a first-person style without mediation, offering a range of authentic views,” says Ingrid Falck, head of documentaries at Al Jazeera English.
“To get beyond the clichés of Africa, there isn’t a better place than Nigeria,” says Ingrid. “For every stereotype of corruption or extremism, there are millions of ordinary Nigerians making this African powerhouse tick. Our series focuses on these individuals to see firsthand how Nigerians are busy making a difference."
Award-winning South Africans directors Brian Tilley and Clifford Bestall shot the series across Nigeria, which is home to one in five Africans.
The first episode below, titled "Kate Henshaw: Playing a Part," features the actress, with over 70 films to her credit, as she decides to leave the entertainment business and run for a seat in Nigeria’s House of Representatives. Kate wants to change how people are represented in her hometown of Calabar in Southern Nigeria, but politics in Nigeria is not for the timid.
And the second episode, released this morning by Al Jazeera, titled "Deola Sagoe: Top Drawer," features Deola Sagoe, a top fashion designer who’s contributing to Nigeria’s ongoing fashion expansion.
Watch both full episodes below. As others become available, we will share here.
And here’s today’s episode, featuring Deola Sagoe, a fashion designer who’s contributing to Nigeria’s fashion expansion.
