By Benjamin Njoku

Talented actor, OC Ukeje will be joining six filmakers selected from three African countries to participate in the 15th edition of the Berlinale Talents Programme.

The Talents programme is billed to take place in the theatres of HAU Hebbel am Ufer, Berlin, Germany, from February 11 to 16, 2017.

Taxi Driver director, Daniel Oriahi is among three Nigerians including star actor, OC Ukeje and Adefoyeke Ajao selected for the programme. The seven filmmakers are part of the 250 emerging professionals from 71 countries selected for the programme.

OC Ukeje

Participants from other Africans are Marie Laurentine Bayala (Burkina Faso), Khanyo Mjamba (South Africa), Ulan Garba Matta (Nigeria), Zamo Mkhwanazi (South Africa).

Exploring the theme “Courage: Against All Odds”, the Talents will participate in a six-day program featuring over 100 events, with many open to the public.

According to the Festival Director,  Dieter Kosslick,  “Since 2003 we have welcomed 5,128 young Talents to Berlin, with over 100 returning to the festival or the film market each year. This extended network symbolizes cultural exchange across all borders, keeps the festival cutting-edge and is living proof that talent development always pays off.”