Hi Ayodele here,

Storytelling has always been a powerful way to inspire change. When it meets science and technology, it becomes a bridge between imagination and possibility. Makemation, Africa’s first AI-themed feature film, steps boldly into that space.

This edition highlights how Makemation is using film to explore AI, STEM education, gender inclusion, and youth empowerment. It is a celebration of African creativity with a clear message: the future is ours to shape.

Let us take a closer look.

Makemation - When Storytelling meets AI and STEM

Movies are not just a form of entertainment. They are cultural time capsules, preserving memories, sparking conversations, and amplifying values. Through storytelling, films help us make sense of the world, inviting us to see ourselves and others in new ways. When cinema intersects with science and technology, it becomes an even more powerful tool to imagine what is possible and inspire change.

What it’s all about

Makemation is a bold, family-friendly feature film with a clear mission: to show that Africa can lead the global conversation on STEM and artificial intelligence through storytelling. At its heart, Makemation tells the powerful story of Zara Sodangi, a resourceful 17-year-old from a struggling community. Her journey into Nigeria's prestigious Makemation Institute, a top tech academy, becomes a catalyst not just for her own personal growth, but for a profound transformation within her community.

Key Themes Explored:

• STEM Education and Digital Skills: The film actively promotes the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, showcasing how young people can leverage these skills to solve real-world problems.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its Applications: As Africa's first AI-themed movie, "Makemation" deeply explores the concept and potential of AI. It showcases its practical applications, particularly through Zara's development of "Helchetics," an AI tool for disease diagnosis, highlighting how AI can address critical societal challenges like healthcare accessibility and accuracy. The film also touches on the ethical considerations and the need for diverse perspectives in AI development to prevent biases.

• Financial Literacy: It subtly integrates lessons on financial management and the economic opportunities that technology can unlock.

• Gender Equality and Girl-Child Education: A central theme is the empowerment of girls, particularly African girls, in technology. Zara's character directly challenges societal stereotypes that limit women's roles, advocating for their inclusion and excellence in STEM fields.

• Inclusion and Accessibility: The movie champions greater accessibility to technology for disadvantaged populations and promotes equitable healthcare solutions driven by local innovation.

• Youth Empowerment: It showcases the boundless potential of young Africans to drive change and innovation on the continent.

Who’s behind it

The driving force behind Makemation is Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, a respected Nigerian social entrepreneur and global advocate for AI for Development. Known for her work at the intersection of youth, innovation, and policy, she brings an unmatched vision to the project. Under her leadership, Makemation tells a powerful story while opening up conversations about what is possible when African creativity meets cutting-edge technology.

This production also marks a significant moment for Nollywood. It highlights the industry’s ability to blend compelling narratives with forward-looking technological themes, while staying true to cultural authenticity.

 Why it matters

At its core, Makemation is more than a movie. It is a proof point. It challenges outdated assumptions about African cinema, AI, and youth potential. The film explores layered issues such as girls' education, intertribal relationships, and medical misdiagnosis, using the lens of AI and innovation.

Its impact is already gaining international recognition. From features at global AI summits to engagement with diplomatic leaders, Makemation is amplifying Africa’s voice in the AI conversation.

This is the kind of storytelling that resonates far beyond the screen. It bridges generations, disciplines, and communities and it invites us all to reimagine what a more inclusive, innovative future could look like.

Other Details

The film officially premiered in Nigerian cinemas on April 18, 2025, with an international rollout planned across other African countries, the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East. Before its general release, "Makemation" had already gained international recognition with teaser screenings at the 2024 Global AI Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a private viewing at the Kenya Innovation Week 2024, and an exclusive screening at the U.S. Consul General's residence in Lagos. The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has publicly endorsed the film, emphasizing the state's commitment to fostering innovation in the creative sector.

You can watch the official trailer here.