Nigeria’s premium media conglomerate, EbonyLife media has partnered with Sony Pictures Television to set up an initiative for African writers. The initiative named “Alo” is translated from the Yoruba language, meaning “Once upon a time” will provide a platform for African writers to submit the stories and television scripts. Speaking on the initiative, EbonyLife CEO, Mo Abudu disclosed that submissions for scripts and stories will be open between September 24 and November 5, 2021, noting that the submissions will pass through an extensive screening by executives of EbonyLife and Sony Pictures.
She said “The name of this initiative inspires me, as we chose a word which holds so much personal meaning for me.
“I am particularly thrilled about the writers’ initiative because it is in line with our continent-wide vision to harness and grow our creative economy.
“It is focused on global storytelling that is authentically African and that gives African writers access to the biggest international broadcasters in the world. It is a dream come true for me.”
Abudu further explained that shortlisted writers will create a pilot script in agreement that upon successful completion will be pitched to international broadcasters.
Nina Lederman, Sony Pictures spokesperson said “We know from our many, many conversations developing this initiative with Mo and her team at EbonyLife that there are countless stories from across the African continent yet to be told. We hope that this provides a unique platform to writers of African heritage with a story they want to bring to the world.”
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