The Elevate Africa Fellowship is proud to celebrate two Alumni Fellows whose work in film, theatre and storytelling continues to push the boundaries of creativity, cultural diplomacy and African representation on global stages.
Nicolette Ndigwe Kalu Set to Premiere “On Different Grounds”
Elevate Africa Fellow, Nicolette Ndigwe Kalu, is set to premiere her new film, On Different Grounds, in cinemas across Nigeria on June 12th.
The project marks another significant milestone in her journey as a storyteller committed to using film as a tool for dialogue, representation, and connection. The private screening is expected to host distinguished guests, including the Co-Founder of Elevate Africa, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the 21st Monarch of the Warri Kingdom, alongside former Minister Frank Nnere Jr., members of the diplomatic community and representatives from the Indian Consulate, British High Commission, Canadian High Commission and other notable institutions.
Nicole’s work reflects the growing influence of African creatives in fostering international collaboration and strengthening cultural diplomacy through media and storytelling. Through projects like this, African stories continue to reach wider audiences while creating important spaces for conversation, identity, and shared experiences.
Bola Edwards Takes African Theatre to the National Theatre Stage
We are equally proud to celebrate Fellow Bola Edwards, whose company, Proud African Roots, will present I Wish, I Wish… Battle of the Winds at the National Theatre in Lagos, Nigeria, on May 30th, 2026.
The performance, presented in collaboration with the National Theatre, represents a major achievement in the African theatre and performing arts space. The National Theatre, one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural institutions, features a main auditorium with a seating capacity of approximately 5,000 people, making it one of the largest theatre venues in Africa.
To stage a production on such a prestigious platform is both a significant creative accomplishment and a powerful statement about the growing visibility of African theatre productions and homegrown storytelling. Through Proud African Roots, Bola Edwards continues to create immersive cultural experiences that celebrate African identity, heritage, and artistic excellence.
We celebrate Nicolette Ndigwe Kalu and Bola Edwards for their outstanding accomplishments and look forward to seeing their continued impact across Africa and the world.