Sahara Centre’s new platform to bridge indigenous knowledge, innovation, social impact

The Sahara Centre has launched a new cultural and intellectual platform, Mangrove Sessions, designed to use film, literature, technology and storytelling as bridges between indigenous knowledge, creativity, and social transformation.

The first edition of the series will kick off in partnership with Yenwa Gallery on Saturday, 4th October. The film screening will feature two films discussing the interconnection of people and how communities derive identity and survival from the natural world. The screenings will be followed by a guided conversation that explores how lessons from nature can inform sustainable thinking and development practices.

Adun Okupe, the executive director of The Sahara Centre, in a press statement, said, “We are using film as a starting point for the conversations our society needs to have. Each film we select connects to real challenges we face, 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.”

The platform focuses on small-group engagements where creative works serve as entry points to explore broader issues of identity, knowledge, and change. As part of the initiative, The Sahara Centre will develop an archive of films, books, and documentaries that have shaped the thinking of notable Nigerians and Africans. Some of these works will feature in future sessions, with invitations extended to authors, directors, and curators to share how these pieces have shaped their outlook.

The sessions will be led by Lanre Olupona, the newly appointed TSC fellow, who will guide participants through dialogue and reflection. Olupona is a filmmaker and creative director, and founder of Motioniere Studios, a visual storytelling company working across film, motion design, and branded content. His work spans directing, cinematography, editing, and documentary curation, consistently reflecting his interest in how stories shape collective understanding and foster dialogue.His role underscores the Centre’s commitment to cultivating important voices and perspectives in shaping Africa’s future.

The Mangrove Sessions extend The Sahara Centre’s mission of empowering more people with the tools to address the challenges in their own societies, by transforming indigenous knowledge into practical intelligence.

“The Yenwa Art Lab is committed to celebrating culture while fostering dialogue that connects our heritage to contemporary issues. Partnering with The Sahara Centre on the Mangrove Sessions aligns perfectly with our mission to use culture as a catalyst for reflection, learning, and innovation,” said Ugonna Ibe Ejiogu, artistic director of the Yenwa Art Lab.

Future sessions will explore themes including intergenerational storytelling, matriarchy, resilience, traditional healing and wellbeing, celebration and innovation, with invitations extended to authors and filmmakers to share the stories and ideas that have shaped their perspectives. The Sahara Centre will also publish themed reading and viewing lists of films and books.