About Us: Creatives Film and Arts Festival – This Year's Theme: The Future is Creative!

Hey there, fellow creatives! Welcome to the Creatives Film and Arts Festival. We are so glad you found us.

We’ve grown from our roots as the Pan African Youth Film and Arts Festival into something even bigger, and this year, we're diving headfirst into what’s next. Our doors are wide open to everyone, from every corner of the globe. Whether you're a filmmaker, artist, writer, producer, actor, or any kind of imaginative soul dreaming of tomorrow, this is your stage. Our festival has homes in two amazing cities: the energetic heart of Lagos, Nigeria, and the diverse, dynamic city of Houston, Texas.

So, what are we all about? Imagine a place buzzing with fresh ideas and brilliant talent. Our main screenings and the big awards night? That all happens in Lagos, bringing incredible films and art to life. But we also know connection is key, so our Houston hub is all about bringing U.S.-based creators together, sparking conversations, and building bridges with the global creative community.

And while we celebrate creativity in all its forms from around the world, we also hold our African heritage close. It’s the bedrock we’ve built upon and the legacy that inspires our future. So, you’ll see us continuing to passionately champion and uplift the powerful stories and unique perspectives of African creatives and those in the diaspora. It’s about sharing these vital voices far and wide, enriching the global tapestry of storytelling and art for everyone to experience.

This year, as we explore the theme, "The Future is Creative," get ready for something truly special! We're introducing an immersive masterclass designed to propel your vision forward. We'll dive deep into the future prospects of creativity, exploring groundbreaking new technologies, innovative storytelling techniques, and how to navigate the evolving creative landscape. This isn't just a class; it's an interactive experience to spark your imagination and equip you for what's ahead. And, of course, it’s another fantastic opportunity to network, connecting with peers, pioneers, and potential collaborators who are all excited about shaping the future alongside you.

At our core, we believe that making cool stuff and envisioning what's next is way better when we do it together. That’s why we’re big on creating spaces where you can meet fellow creatives, swap stories, team up on projects, and get inspired. Whether you're joining us in Lagos, connecting through our Houston initiatives, or participating in our future-focused sessions, you'll find a community ready to welcome you.

When it comes to submissions, your work will be seen by folks who know their stuff! Award-winning filmmakers and industry pros who are just as excited about new talent as we are. We've got awards in a bunch of categories because great work deserves to be celebrated.

So, come be a part of the Creatives Film and Arts Festival. It’s more than just a festival; it’s a launchpad for your ideas, a hub for connection across continents, and a global family daring to create the future, together. Also, check out the new category that can allow you to stand out more.

We can't wait to see what you bring and what future you envision!

People’s Choice Award (Viewer’s Pick)
Best Feature Film
Best Thriller / Suspense Film
Best Dramatic Short Film
Best Science Fiction / Fantasy Film
Best Special Interest / Experimental Film
Best AI or Tech-Enhanced Film
Best Dramatic Horror / Thriller
Best Comedy Film / Skit (Local and International)
Best Singer / Songstress (Music in a Movie)
Best Animation
Best Documentary
Best Photography
Best Screenplay
Best Women-Inspired Film / Documentary
Best Environmental Film
Best Cinematography

📜 Rules & Terms – Creatives Film & Arts Festival
The festival is open to all filmmakers worldwide, regardless of nationality or background.

All non-English language films must include English subtitles.

All films submitted must have full rights and permission for public screening.

By submitting, you grant Creatives Film & Arts Festival the right to use excerpts, stills, posters, and promotional material from your film for festival marketing and publicity purposes.

The individual or entity submitting the film confirms that they are legally authorized to submit the work and that all necessary rights and clearances (e.g., music, visuals, performance) have been obtained.

By submitting a film, you agree to indemnify and hold harmless Creatives Film & Arts Festival from any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and legal expenses (including attorney’s fees) arising from:

Copyright or trademark infringement

Publicity or credit disputes

Unauthorized use of content or materials

Loss of or damage to submitted files or screening copies

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Sybil Jatta

    We are so grateful for this opportunity and so humbled that your most prestigious film festival selected our international award winning documentary feature film "AKWAABA The Awakening". We thank you and your team for supporting artists in making dreams come true. Our film...God's hands.

    January 2023
  • Nimefurahi na ninatarajia msimu mwengine kushiliki tena.

    October 2021
  • Mirvet Medini Kammoun

    very good experience for my movie

    July 2021
  • We were very honored with the selection of two of our films 28 DAYS by Jahëna Louisin (Togo) and OUR NEIGHBORS by Delphine Kabore (Burkina Faso) at the 2021 edition of your festival. It was the first time that the films of these two young directors have been screened in Nigeria. We are glad that OUR NEIGHBORS has been selected as the Judge's Top 5 of the best short films in competition even if at the end the film has not received an award.
    Thanks to Nigerian film lovers and to the the festival organizing committee. We will not hesitate to come back with new productions ! See you soon :-)

    June 2021
    Response from festival:

    We look forward to showcasing more productions from your team!

  • I was thrilled to have my short animated film "A Man Walks Into A Bank" selected and even more elated when it won it's category! The media for this festival was top class, really good, well done! And there was a Zoom meeting for all the film makers and the final award ceremony was broadcast live via Zoom too. They went to a lot of trouble to organise the venue with a red carpet, awesome branding etc, and live entertainment. The photography was professional too - you could see that A LOT of planning and effort had gone into this festival, and I was very impressed, as it was their first. Thank you again for the opportunity, and I hope to see you all again next year. Greetings from South Africa! :-)

    June 2021
    Response from festival:

    Thanks James Whitelaw. We appreciate your participation in the Festival and Congratulations on your win! We look forward to having you at our future events.