Private Project

Yamina (The African Warrior Princess)

Yamina follows the journey of a fearless princess destined to bring peace and transformation to her land. Defying traditions that favor male rulers, Yamina is trained as a warrior and leader by her father. When betrayal and invasion threaten the kingdom, she rises to lead her people, outsmarting powerful invaders and uniting allies to secure their future. Blending action, drama, and rich cultural storytelling, Yamina is a powerful tale of resilience, sacrifice, and the strength of a woman destined to change her world.

  • Gabriel Odartei
    Director
  • Gabriel Odartei
    Writer
  • Gabriel Odartei
    Producer
  • Enoch Arhinful
    Producer
  • Project Type:
    Animation, Short
  • Genres:
    Action, Drama, Fiction, animation
  • Runtime:
    35 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    February 7, 2025
  • Country of Origin:
    Canada
  • Country of Filming:
    Canada, Ghana
  • Language:
    English
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
  • France Africa USA International Film Festival
    Cannes
    France
    August 12, 2025
    Best Animation (Award)
  • Blackstar International Film Festival
    Accra
    Ghana
    September 27, 2025
    Best Animation (Award)
  • Anime Caribe Animation Festival
    Port of Spain
    Trinidad and Tobago
    November 25, 2025
  • Pan African Film Festival
    Los Angeles
    United States
    February 28, 2026
    Best Animation (Selection)
Director Biography - Gabriel Odartei

Gabriel Odartei is an accomplished African-Canadian Cultural Connector and creative visionary with over a decade of experience in the arts and cultural sector. Based in Toronto, Canada, Gabriel has dedicated his career to bridging diverse cultural backgrounds by fostering connections among artists, managers, facilitators, and curators.

He is the founder of Ghanalinx Media Group, a prominent media company dedicated to uplifting the African-Canadian entertainment industry, and MAKU Productions, a video and animation company recognized for its innovative storytelling. Through these ventures, Gabriel has spearheaded numerous projects, including organizing red carpet film premieres, hosting community concerts, and producing the critically acclaimed animated series The Mansa Family Show. The series provides a humorous and insightful exploration of Canadian culture while celebrating the Black diasporic experience.

Gabriel’s expertise spans all aspects of creative production, including character development, narrative crafting, and post-production. His hands-on approach, combined with mentorship from industry professionals, has allowed him to build a unique skill set.

Passionate about inclusivity, Gabriel excels in creating spaces for artists and arts professionals from African and Black communities. He takes pride in facilitating collaborations that amplify underrepresented voices in the arts, ensuring their stories and talents resonate with broader audiences.

As a director, Gabriel Odartei’s work embodies the transformative power of storytelling, community engagement, and cultural connection, making him a vital force in Canada’s creative landscape.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

As the director of YAMINA (The African Warrior Princess), my vision is deeply rooted in my passion for storytelling that celebrates culture, heritage, and identity. This movie represents more than just an epic adventure; it is a tribute to the rich and diverse history of Africa, told through the lens of a powerful female protagonist who embodies strength, resilience, and courage.

Growing up immersed in African culture and later navigating life in Canada, I’ve always felt a strong connection to stories that highlight the beauty and complexity of African traditions while bridging them with universal themes. Through my work with Ghanalinx Media Group and MAKU Productions, I have sought to amplify underrepresented voices and bring culturally rich narratives to the forefront. YAMINA (The African Warrior Princess) is the next step in that journey, a project that not only entertains but educates and inspires.

This movie blends traditional African storytelling with contemporary animation to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. My goal as a director and co-producer is to craft a world that honors African history while presenting it in a way that captivates audiences across cultures and generations. By focusing on character development, intricate storylines, and dynamic visuals, I aim to bring Yamina’s journey to life in a way that resonates with viewers and instills a sense of pride and curiosity about African heritage.

YAMINA is a story of empowerment, cultural celebration, and the enduring human spirit. I am honored to guide this project, bringing a vision that reflects my passion for creating inclusive, meaningful, and impactful narratives.