Stay tuned for a series of industry talks and presentations. We’ll announce more sessions soon featuring esteemed speakers and panellists from across the globe. Watch this space for the latest updates and exciting additions to our lineup.
2025 JBX Talks
| TIME | TOPIC | DESCRIPTION |
|---|---|---|
| - | Going Local, Going Viral: The Key to Shomax’s Subscriber Boom | After being in existence for 10 years, Showax unveils how it has captured audiences by offering variety, hyperlocal content, and broadening the net of representation. From shows such as Youngins to Wyfie, to Adulting, and Beulah, Showmax has managed to attract an audience many streamers have struggled to get - the youth market. This session will dive deep into the learnings about how audiences consume content on streaming platforms and how these learnings can be used as a springboard for subscriber growth. The conversation will offer valuable insights into local streaming markets and how creatives can push the boundaries to create impactful streaming content. |
| - | Reflecting Africa, Connecting the World | This session assembles a cross-continental lineup of visionary African filmmakers who will explore how to weave deeply rooted cultural identities into narratives that captivate global audiences. Panellists will offer practical insights into striking the delicate balance between local authenticity and broad appeal, sharing their journeys of celebrating African identities in film and TV without compromising or making adaptions where necessary. From reimagining cherished folktales and historical epics to experimenting with cutting-edge technology, discover how African stories continue to shape and energise the global creative landscape—boldly reflecting who we are while resonating with the world. |
| - | Beyond the Algorithm: Monetizing Digital Creativity in a Future-Forward Economy | Gain fresh insights into Africa’s rapidly evolving creator economy. A cross-sector panel—featuring advertising strategists, sought-after content creators from TikTok and Instagram, and executives from social platforms—will reveal how to transform online influence into sustainable income. Expect discussions on revenue models, from subscriber-only content and micro-communities to brand alliances and AI-assisted personalisation. Panellists will also highlight emerging best practices drawn from recent digital shifts, offering a roadmap for creators eager to stand out in a competitive market. Whether you’re a veteran influencer or a rising digital star, discover how to future-proof your craft, leverage the latest tech tools, and position your voice for global impact. |
| - | From Stage to Screen: Evolving Black Music into Powerful Visual Stories | Celebrate the cultural significance and global influence of Black music as Dr. Syleecia Thompson shows how to transform live performances into compelling on-screen narratives. Drawing on personal experience and illuminating examples, she outlines the production journey from early concept to final broadcast, offering practical advice on creating, packaging, and monetizing your work. Take a historical exploration into the evolution of Black music’s presence in visual media, then discover innovative ways to engage viewers through the dynamic synergy of performance and production. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies and renewed inspiration for turning vibrant stage energy into cinematic success. |
| - | Where Cinema Connects: The Transformative Power of Festivals, Markets, Commissions and Funders as Support Networks | Festivals, markets, and film commissions play an essential role in accelerating filmmakers’ careers—offering crucial funding pathways, distribution insights, and opportunities for broad audience engagement. Through thoughtfully curated film programming and industry offerings, these platforms spotlight diverse storytelling and introduce new trends while also serving as hubs where the magic happens—fostering the exchange of knowledge and networks, expanding co-production possibilities, and galvanising global partnerships. Panellists will explore these topics and discuss how strategic festival programming can shape public perception, enrich viewer experiences, and spark commercial success. Attendees will gain actionable insights on harnessing these networks to refine creative visions, build a devoted audience, and thrive in an industry that increasingly values cross-cultural collaboration. |
| - | Innovation at the Edge: The Creative Convergence of AI in Film, TV and Animation | AI continues to push the boundaries of film, TV and Animation like never before—merging storytelling with advanced technologies to spark new modes of creativity. This panel assembles a global and African ensemble of innovators who will reveal how technological breakthroughs are reshaping script development to post-production in 2025, opening fresh avenues for immersive audience engagement. Speakers will unpack the ethical and aesthetic considerations when blending advanced tools with storytelling, ensuring that technology augments rather than overshadows the creative vision. Attendees can expect a forward-focused conversation on integrating AI into their production strategies, expanding reach, and preserving authenticity in an industry that increasingly prizes innovative collaboration. |