About Us
Sèmè City, in partnership with EbonyLife Creative Academy, is launching the Sèmè City Film Lab”, the first incubation program in the Republic of Benin aimed at training and nurturing creative entrepreneurs in scriptwriting and filmmaking.
Funded by the World Bank, this innovative program equips young talents with the practical and technical skills necessary for a successful career in the film industry.
The Sèmè City Film Lab is designed to empower young creatives aged 18-35, with a special focus on fostering the talents of women and youth in the film industry. This program emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices in filmmaking, preparing participants to create impactful and responsible content.
Through comprehensive training, they will learn the foundational elements of great storytelling and develop their own film or TV scripts under the guidance of industry professionals.
Recognising the potential of the creative sectors to generate jobs and drive growth, the Beninese government is launching multiple initiatives. As a regional centre of excellence, Sèmè City is committed to advanced education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Sèmè City’s program spans a broad spectrum of disciplines, from arts and design to cutting-edge technologies, providing young African talents with opportunities for growth and development.
Through these programs, Sèmè City is helping to nurture a new generation of storytellers, creatives, and technicians in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) in Africa. Participants will gain the expertise to bring their creative visions to life, mastering essential production principles, budgeting schedules, and exploring distribution opportunities.
By joining the Sèmè City Film Lab, participants will not only advance their careers but also contribute to the growth of the film industry in Benin and beyond. They will build valuable connections with key industry players and seasoned entrepreneurs, expanding their network and opportunities for collaboration.
Apply now to the Sèmè City Film Lab and turn your creative dreams into reality, becoming part of a community dedicated to excellence, innovation, and the future of filmmaking.
Campus & Facilities
Situated in Sèmè-Podji, Sèmè City’s activities start in the heart of Cotonou in a multifunctional building called “Sèmè One”. The Sèmè One campus offers Creative Entrepreneurs access to state-of-the-art lecture rooms, an information and orientation centre, co-working spaces for start-ups, a language and computer centre, as well as practical workshop spaces for creatives.