I’m thrilled to share that I have reached out to the Africa’s Voices of Change Film Festival (AVOCFF), which will take place in Lagos, Nigeria in 2025, with a request to be considered as a guest speaker.
In my application, I proposed participating either through an interview or a panel discussion, where I could share insights on inclusive storytelling and the representation of persons with disabilities in film — with a particular focus on hearing loss.
It would be an incredible honour to represent the perspectives of persons with disabilities at AVOCFF, to connect with fellow filmmakers across the continent, and to help shape conversations around authentic and inclusive representation in cinema.
The festival team responded with such warmth and encouragement, inviting me to be a speaker — either online through a live session, or on-site in Lagos. For now, I would absolutely love to be there in person; I just need to wait on finances to come through in the form of a sponsorship or a travel grant. With faith and persistence, I’m hopeful that doors will open for this incredible opportunity.
I am deeply grateful to the AVOCFF team for believing in the value of disability inclusion in film, and I look forward to what may unfold in the months ahead.