WeOwnTV: Idriss Kpange Filmmaker Fellowship

Hello to all of our wonderful supporters!

We are excited to share an update from the field from John, one of the WeOwnTV Filmmaker Fellows. His project is titled, “Life After the Army.”  The documentary film shares the stories of five ex-service men who left the army after an 11-year-long civil war in Sierra Leone.  Between 2004 and 2010, more than six thousand military personnel left the military through the "Voluntary Retirement Program", some of them forced out through the program in a manner described as "compulsory". Today, a large number of these retired soldiers, having exhausted their meager retirement benefits, are now penniless, miserable and striving for survival under very harsh and inhumane conditions. With this film, John's intent is to diminish the public's negative perception of serving and retired soldiers, raise awareness about the plight of ex-service men, and to inspire policy changes, which ensure that those enlisted in the army have a sustainable plan for life after service.

Here is a message from the Director:

Potential quote in case John doesn't get back to you in time:

"When I started making "Life After the Army" I knew it was going to be an uphill task, but I was greatly encouraged by the fact that I was recognized by the team at WeOwnTV. Being a WeOwnTV filmmaker fellow has been invaluable for me. The mentorship I am receiving from this experienced team of documentary filmmakers will no doubt play a big part in my relentless effort to accomplish my goal."

- John

We are so happy to have John in our inaugural class of Filmmaker Fellows.  We would greatly appreciate your support by sharing this project and any donation you can make to help support West African filmmakers share important stories like this one.

Thank you for your support!

Banker White and the WeOwnTV family