African Odysseys: A Valued Programme [African Odysseys Image] The British Film Institute (BFI) has reiterated its commitment to the African Odysseys p
African Odysseys: A Valued Programme
[African Odysseys Image]
The British Film Institute (BFI) has reiterated its commitment to the African Odysseys programme, as an online petition expressing concerns over the programme’s future has garnered over 12,078 signatures as of October 25.
About African Odysseys
African Odysseys is a 17-year-old programme established in 2007 by grassroots Black community activists who were already showing films at various London venues. The programme aims to provide a singular home for those films, advise and help the BFI showcase African diaspora content, and bring an underserved Black audience to the BFI Southbank, as well as offering training to young Black filmmakers. The programme includes a monthly strand of programming and accompanying seasons.
Concerns over the Programme’s Future
Concern over the programme’s future emerged in June when it was announced that David Somerset, who continued to run the programme as an education/film programmer, was facing redundancy amid a BFI restructure. The voluntary steering group that helps run the programme, which includes Tony Warner and lecturer and researcher Gus John, launched an online petition to voice concerns over the programme’s future and how it would continue without a clear figurehead with relevant experience at the BFI.
BFI’s Commitment to African Odysseys
In a statement, the BFI said, "The African Odysseys event series has been a valuable and vitally important part of the BFI programme for 17 years, and it remains so. There is some misleading information around the programme out there, and we want to reassure everyone that we have no desire or intention for it to end, and we remain committed to it."
Ongoing Concerns
The steering group has also raised concerns with the BFI over being overlooked within the institution, citing a lack of funding for marketing materials such as filming Q&A sessions, which the steering group has had to organise itself.
Conclusion
The future of African Odysseys remains uncertain, with ongoing concerns over the programme’s funding and the impact of the BFI’s restructure on its dedicated staff. However, the BFI has reiterated its commitment to the programme, and plans are in place for a celebratory season in 2026. Despite the challenges ahead, African Odysseys remains an important platform for showcasing African diaspora content and promoting greater diversity and inclusion in the film industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the BFI cancelling African Odysseys?
A: No, the BFI has no intention of cancelling the programme.
Q: What is the future of African Odysseys?
A: The BFI is committed to the programme and plans to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2026.
Q: How is the BFI restructure affecting African Odysseys?
A: The BFI has confirmed that the programme will not be directly impacted by the restructure, but some staff may be affected.
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