Divine Progress Films for Africa

Lectures:

AYA — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 01:12:57 +0000

Engage your mind with a series of enlightening talks, panels, and presentations focused on the intersection of arts, culture, and development. Leading thinkers, artists, and activists share their insights on how creative expression can drive social change and community development. Topics range from the role of arts in education and peacebuilding to the challenges and opportunities in preserving cultural heritage in a rapidly changing world. These sessions provide a space for meaningful dialogue, encouraging attendees to think critically about the power of arts and culture in shaping society’s future.”

Cultural Demonstrations

AYA — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 01:11:32 +0000

Get hands-on with African heritage through interactive workshops and demonstrations. Learn the intricate art of traditional weaving, try your hand at pottery, or discover the secrets of ancestral beadwork. Culinary enthusiasts can participate in cooking classes featuring local delicacies, learning about indigenous ingredients and time-honored preparation methods. Explore the world of traditional healing practices, understanding the holistic approaches to well-being that have been passed down through generations. These demonstrations not only preserve cultural knowledge but also create bridges between past and present.

Fashion Shows

AYA — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 01:09:37 +0000

SACFEST’s runway comes alive with a stunning fusion of tradition and innovation. Witness the beauty and craftsmanship of traditional attire from various African cultures, each garment a wearable piece of heritage. Then, prepare to be amazed by contemporary designs that blend ancestral motifs with modern silhouettes, showcasing the dynamic evolution of African fashion. From everyday wear to haute couture, these shows celebrate the creativity of local designers and the rich textile traditions of the continent. The fashion exhibitions also include stalls where attendees can purchase unique pieces and meet the designers.

Art Exhibitions

AYA — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 01:08:21 +0000

Wander through carefully curated galleries that showcase the depth and diversity of local visual arts. From vibrant paintings that capture the essence of African life to thought-provoking photography exhibits that challenge perceptions, the art on display will inspire and provoke. Marvel at intricate sculptures crafted from traditional and unconventional materials, each telling a unique story. The exhibitions also feature mixed media installations, digital art, and more, reflecting the evolving landscape of African artistic expression. Many featured artists will be present to discuss their work, offering insights into their creative processes.

Film Screenings

AYA — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 01:06:31 +0000

SACFEST’s film program offers a window into African realities and imaginations. Discover thought-provoking documentaries that shed light on pressing social issues, and narrative films that push the boundaries of storytelling. The lineup includes powerful advocacy films produced by DIPFASOCASOCA, addressing topics like gender equality, health awareness, and peacebuilding. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to view fresh works by emerging local filmmakers, providing a platform for new voices in African cinema. Each screening is followed by engaging Q&A sessions with filmmakers, fostering dialogue and deeper understanding.

Performances

AYA — Wed, 03 Jul 2024 01:03:54 +0000

Immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of artistic expression at SACFEST. From soul-stirring musical performances that blend traditional rhythms with contemporary beats, to captivating dance showcases that tell stories through movement, the festival stage comes alive with local talent. Experience the power of theater as local troupes tackle social issues through compelling dramas and lighthearted comedies. Laugh along with stand-up comedians as they offer humorous takes on daily life. Be moved by the raw emotion and wordplay of slam poets, and lose yourself in the enchanting world of traditional storytellers who keep ancient tales alive for new generations.

SACFEST (Sunrise Arts and Cultural Festival)

AYA — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:22:44 +0000

SACFEST is DIPFASOCASOCA’s signature annual event that provides a platform for showcasing and celebrating local arts, culture, and heritage.

The multi-day festival features diverse programming including:

Performances – music, dance, theater, comedy, slam poetry, storytelling
Film screenings – spotlighting both DIPFASOCASOCA productions and works by local filmmakers
Art exhibitions – galleries displaying paintings, photography, sculptures, and more by local artists
Fashion shows – highlighting traditional attire and contemporary designs
Cultural demonstrations – workshops on local crafts, cooking, traditional healing
Games tournaments – competitions in traditional sports and games
Lectures – talks, panels, and presentations on issues related to arts, culture, and development

Key goals of SACFEST:

Provide exhibition and performance opportunities to both established and emerging artists in various disciplines
Foster appreciation and community pride for local culture and traditional arts
Facilitate cultural exchange and networking amongst artists and organizations
Entertain and educate the general public on the diversity of local arts and culture
Promote DIPFASOCASOCA’s mission of using arts and culture for community development

The festival is attended by thousands from across the region over 2-3 days. It has become a highly anticipated annual celebration and retention of local cultural heritage. DIPFASOCASOCA utilizes the event to identify promising artists to potentially work with on future productions and projects.

Capacity Development

AYA — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:19:32 +0000

DIPFASOCASOCA’s capacity building initiatives aim to nurture talent and train the next generation of artists to create works that positively impact their communities.

Some key activities include:

Workshops – Intensive training workshops focused on building skills in filmmaking, writing, acting, music production, and more. Local and international experts are brought in as facilitators.
Mentorship – Budding artists are paired with more experienced creatives who coach them on honing their craft and using it for social benefit.
Contests – Competitions like short film contests, poetry slams, photography exhibitions allow young artists to showcase their talents.
Career guidance – Seminars provide guidance on turning artistic passions into professions, accessing funding, and managing the business side of being an artist.
Networking – Events and showcases provide platforms for artists to connect with each other, potential collaborators and mentors.
Apprenticeships – Hands-on training opportunities allow artists to work directly with DIPFASOCASOCA’s production teams on shoots, performances and other projects.
Resource provision – Grants and seed funding are provided to deserving artists and collectives to help bring their socially impactful projects and productions to life.

The program prioritizes developing skills for youth, women, disadvantaged populations, and those with artistic talent but limited opportunities. Ensuring diversity allows more voices and perspectives to be amplified through the power of arts.

Photography

AYA — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:18:28 +0000

We offer professional photography services for events, headshots, portraits, and documenting artistic works and performances. This provides lasting records of the arts and culture we promote.

Advocacy

AYA — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:17:25 +0000

DIPFASOCASOCA leverages the power of arts and media to advocate for social causes, raise awareness on key issues, and influence policies that strengthen arts/culture.

Some core focus areas of our advocacy efforts include:

Gender equality – Films, theater, and artworks that promote positive gender portrayals, women’s empowerment, and tackle issues like domestic violence.
Health awareness – Using entertainment and arts to increase public understanding on diseases like HIV/AIDS and sickle cell anemia.
Child protection – Advocating against problems like child labor, lack of access to education, and early marriage.
Peacebuilding – Promoting messages of non-violence, tolerance, resolving conflict through art.
Environmental conservation – Using creative mediums to shed light on ecological crises.
Disability rights – Giving artists with disabilities platforms to showcase their talents and tell their stories.
Policy reform – Lobbying government for increased public funding and support for the arts and culture sector. Strengthening free expression policies.

DIPFASOCASOCA carries out advocacy through:

Productions – Films, plays, paintings, photo projects focused on social issues.
Outreach campaigns – Using artworks for community engagement/dialogues.
Petitions and proposals – Putting forward policy recommendations to government bodies on supporting arts and culture.
Partnerships – Collaborating with NGOs and activists to develop impactful advocacy strategies.

The ultimate goal is to drive awareness, debate, policy changes and lastly positive behavior change on important social concerns through creative and engaging advocacy.