WeOwnTV: Idriss Kpange Filmmaker Fellowship

Hi Everyone,

It's Barmmy again, one of the founders at WeOwnTV Freetown Media Center, thrilled to give you an update for the WeOwnTV: Idriss Kpange Filmmaker Fellowship. First off, thank you all so much for your support. 

Idriss Kpange, was a filmmaker and a close friend of WeOwnTV Freetown Media Center and inspired many in the industry here in Sierra Leone. His unfortunate passing sent shockwaves throughout the industry and the country at large and sent a terrible signal that the young people of Sierra Leone are struggling to free themselves from the clutches of drug abuse. In recent years, the drug epidemic has become a challenge for young people as the market has been flooded with highly addictive, extremely dangerous, and cheap narcotics. As we continue to raise funds to launch an open call for the fellowship we want to announce plans for some very special support.

Jonathan, the son of Idriss, has also struggled with addiction himself, and his own life had begun to take a turn for the worse, falling into some of the same traps that led to the demise of his father. Jonathan is also an inspiring filmmaker and he recently expressed interest in making a film about his own struggle that could open up conversation around substance abuse whilst affecting the wider policy conversation around drug use in this country. We feel providing him a special one-year mentorship plan with equipment support for Jonathan to tell his story would be the perfect inaugural fellowship award. again, thank you all so much for your support. We look forward to updating you throughout the year, AND please continue to support our efforts to raise funds for an open call in 2024!

With profound Gratitude

Barmmy