What is AfroCannes
Launched in 2021, AfroCannes is a multi-tiered cultural and industry platform held during the Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France. Organized by Yanibes Foundation, AfroCannes convenes filmmakers, producers, distributors, investors, and cultural leaders from Africa, the African diaspora, and the global film industry.
Rather than operating as a traditional film festival, it is a curated series of industry sessions, masterclasses, screenings, networking gatherings, and cultural events designed to foster dialogue, collaboration, and visibility for African and Afro-diasporic storytelling and under-represented communities on the international stage.
A core pillar of AfroCannes is its support for emerging filmmakers, offering guidance on navigating the global film ecosystem—from development and financing to distribution and international market access.
Through expert panels, mentorship sessions, and professional exchanges, the platform provides practical insights and industry connections for creators seeking to scale their projects and careers.
AfroCannes also places a strong emphasis on global alliances, encouraging partnerships between African, European, and international stakeholders across film, television, and digital media. The platform promotes co-production opportunities, cross-border distribution strategies, and dialogue around narrative sovereignty and cultural exchange.
AfroCannes is the sister event of AfroBerlin, which takes place during the Berlin International Film Festival in Berlin. Together, the two platforms create year-round opportunities for African and diaspora creatives to connect with global industry leaders, strengthen professional networks, and elevate diverse stories within the international film landscape.
Features
AfroCannes is a multi-tiered events with various activities free of access for registered attendees and members of Yanibes Foundation Club.
Industry Sessions
AfroCannes Industry Sessions are curated professional discussions that bring together filmmakers, producers, financiers, cultural leaders, and creative innovators to explore the evolving landscape of African and diasporic storytelling.
Through formats such as panel discussions, town hall conversations, expert insights, In Conversation, Spotlight On, Interviews, these sessions address key topics including financing, co-production, distribution, creative ownership, technology, and representation.
Designed to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration, the Industry Sessions provide a space for both emerging and established professionals to engage with industry leaders, gain practical insights, and contribute to shaping the future of the global film ecosystem.
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Business Forum
AfroCannes Business Forum is the professional development and deal-making platform within AfroCannes, bringing together filmmakers, producers, investors, and industry experts to exchange knowledge and accelerate projects.
Through masterclasses, practical workshops, pitch sessions, and project presentations, the forum provides participants with direct access to industry insights, funding opportunities, and market strategies. These sessions are designed to equip emerging and established creators with the tools to develop, finance, and position their projects internationally.
The Business Forum also encourages cross-border partnerships and co-production opportunities between Africa, Europe, and the global film industry.
Artistic Showcase
AfroCannes Artistic Showcase is the cultural showcase component of AfroCannes, dedicated to screenings, curated exhibitions, and artistic presentations that highlight the richness of African and diasporic storytelling.
This platform offers audiences the opportunity to experience films, visual works, and multimedia projects that reflect diverse narratives, histories, and creative expressions.
Through screenings, installations, and thematic showcases, the Artistic Showcase celebrates both emerging and established voices while creating a space where cinema, art, and culture intersect within the global context of Cannes.
Connective Networking
AfroCannes Connective Networking are curated social and professional gatherings designed to foster meaningful connections among filmmakers, producers, investors, cultural leaders, and industry stakeholders.
Through cocktail receptions, gala dinners, curated luncheons, site visits, and informal networking events, participants have the opportunity to build relationships, explore collaborations, and engage with the global creative community in a relaxed setting.
These gatherings complement the industry programming by creating spaces where conversations can continue beyond panels and sessions, strengthening partnerships across Africa, Europe, and the international film ecosystem.
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