Priye Diri has carved out a historic milestone as the first Nigerian filmmaker selected for the 2024 10th edition of the Global Media Makers LA Residency Program. Hosted by Film Independent and proudly supported by the U.S. Department of State, this exclusive festival brings together 20 filmmakers from 12 diverse nations, celebrating global storytelling and cultural exchange.
Diri’s groundbreaking entry into this illustrious program came on the wings of her film, “Baby Girl,” a story that navigates a girl’s journey through a complex mother-daughter relationship.
Set against the backdrop of the Hollywood city of Los Angeles, the six-week-long residency offers a transformative experience for participants, providing a nurturing environment where filmmakers can share ideas, hone their crafts and promote an international standing for independent filmmaking.
Central to the residency is a series of masterclasses meticulously designed to elevate participants’ skills in storytelling, directing, and documentary filmmaking. Moreover, the program boasts an array of industry sessions, providing participants with invaluable opportunities to rub shoulders with legends and tastemakers from the global film industry.
With a diverse cohort representing twelve nations – Bangladesh, India, Mexico, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, Uganda, Ukraine and Zimbabwe, this convergence of talent promises to ignite a cultural renaissance, sparking conversations and challenging perceptions.
Diri’s selection not only throws light on her creative prowess but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers across Nigeria and beyond.