Rise of Afrobeats in the Prairies

The documentary follows the journey of African creatives in Alberta, who find a sense of belonging and community through Afrobeats. It showcases their stories, as well as the growing popularity of Afrobeats in the Prairie region, highlighting the fusion of cultures and the essence of immigration in Canada.

  • Ivan Touko
    Director
  • Fahad Suleiman
    Director
  • Zainab Azhar
    Writer
  • Aimaar Azhar
    Writer
  • Ivan Touko
    Producer
  • Fahad Suleiman
    Producer
  • Ivan Touko
    Key Cast
  • Mpoe Mogale
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Runtime:
    19 minutes 24 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    August 25, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    22,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Canada
  • Country of Filming:
    Canada
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Ivan Touko, Fahad Suleiman

Ivan Touko is a first-time filmmaker and passionate community leader, dedicated to storytelling and amplifying BIPOC voices. Originally hailing from Cameroon, Ivan has cultivated a deep understanding of the importance of diverse narratives and cultural representation in the arts.

With a strong background in community development and event management, Ivan has consistently demonstrated his commitment to fostering multicultural understanding and inclusivity. As the founder of La Connexional, Ivan has been instrumental in promoting the development, growth, and collaboration between African, Caribbean, Latinx, and Canadian communities through a variety of historical, cultural, and entrepreneurial events.

Ivan's passion for storytelling has led him to the realm of filmmaking, where he is able to bring his unique perspective and experience to life on screen. As an executive producer for the documentary "Rise of Afrobeats in the Prairies," Ivan is dedicated to showcasing the journeys of African creatives who have made Alberta their home and found a sense of belonging through the vibrant sounds of Afrobeats.

As a filmmaker, Ivan's primary focus is to create engaging and meaningful content that not only inspires but also educates and entertains. Through his work in the film industry, Ivan aims to continue breaking barriers, pushing boundaries, and amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and diverse storytelling landscape.

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Director Statement

As a filmmaker and storyteller, my primary goal is to create visually compelling and emotionally resonant narratives that explore the intricacies of the human experience. I am deeply committed to using the medium of film to amplify underrepresented voices, and to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for the richness of diverse cultures and perspectives.

Throughout my journey in the world of media and film, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of storytelling, and its ability to create empathy, forge connections, and bridge divides. I firmly believe that it is through the art of cinema that we can begin to challenge prevailing misconceptions and dismantle the barriers that often separate us.

In my work, I strive to create authentic and intimate portraits of the individuals and communities that I have the honor of representing on screen. I am dedicated to collaborating closely with my subjects, ensuring that their voices are heard and that their stories are told with the utmost respect and integrity.

With "Afrobeats in the Prairies," I am thrilled to bring to light the inspiring stories of two African creatives who have found a home in the Canadian prairies and, through their shared love of Afrobeats, have created a vibrant and supportive community. This film is a testament to the power of music and dance as universal languages that can transcend geographical boundaries, and to the resilience and creativity of those who dare to forge their own paths in the face of adversity.

As an excutive producer and director, I am deeply humbled to have the opportunity to contribute to the ever-evolving tapestry of global storytelling, and I am committed to using my platform to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of film.