The Sahara Centre has announced the launch of Mangrove Sessions, a monthly series of intimate gatherings on the role of film, literature, and creative storytelling in shaping thought and informing change.

In a statement released yesterday, the Centre stated that the first edition of the series would kick off in partnership with Yenwa Gallery on Saturday, 4th October.

The Centre expressed its determination to empower more people through the launch of the Sessions to address the challenges in their own societies by transforming indigenous knowledge into practical intelligence.

According to the statement, the film screening would feature two films discussing the interconnection of people and how communities derive identity and survival from the natural world.

The screenings would be followed by a guided conversation that explores how lessons from nature can inform sustainable thinking and development practices.

Giving further insight about the event, Executive Director of The Sahara Centre, Dr. Adun Okupe, said that each film selected connects to real challenges facing humanity and opens up space to ideate around how we live and build systems in our communities.

“The films we are screening this year reflect our ongoing work to centre indigenous knowledge as a strategy for Africa’s future,” she stressed.

As part of the initiative, The Sahara Centre would develop an archive of films, books, and documentaries that have shaped the thinking of notable Nigerians and Africans.

Some of these works would feature in future sessions, with invitations extended to authors, directors, and curators to share how these pieces have shaped their outlook.

The sessions are expected to be led by Lanre Olupona, the newly appointed TSC Fellow, who will guide participants through dialogue and reflection.

Olupona, a filmmaker, creative director, and founder of Motioniere Studios, has consistently reflected his interest in how stories shape collective understanding and foster dialogue.

Artistic Director of the Yenwa Art Lab, Ugonna Ibe Ejiogu, lauded Sahara Centre for such an initiative, emphasising the importance of culture as a catalyst for reflection, learning, and innovation.

“Partnering with The Sahara Centre on the Mangrove Sessions aligns perfectly with our mission. At Yenwa Art Lab, we are committed to celebrating culture while fostering dialogue that connects our heritage to contemporary issues,” she said.