KESSA: Enriching African Storytelling through Creativity and Collaboration

The art of storytelling has long been a cultural cornerstone in Africa, deeply interwoven with its heritage and traditions. In a bold effort to redefine and amplify African narratives, Story School at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), in collaboration with the French-African Foundation, is launching KESSA. This groundbreaking initiative is tailor-made to empower the continent’s next generation of storytellers—from filmmakers to cultural entrepreneurs—through a multidisciplinary residency program designed to inspire innovation and elevate diverse African voices globally.

What is KESSA? A Revolutionary Platform for Modern Storytelling

KESSA, meaning “story” in both Arabic and several African dialects, represents a bridge between Africa’s storied past and its aspirational future. This pan-African initiative will bring together 30 emerging talents from across the continent, including journalists, influencers, scientists, artists, and other narrative innovators. Aimed at reshaping Africa’s global image, KESSA is more than a program—it’s a movement working to transform societal perceptions and create authentic, future-focused narratives that resonate worldwide.

The program’s residency model serves as a living laboratory for storytelling innovation, reflecting Africa’s expanding cultural and creative industries. Participants, chosen for their creativity and vision, will receive professional mentorship, engage in diverse artistic collaborations, and learn to present Africa’s unique perspectives in ways that challenge stereotypes and inspire fresh discourse.

Developing Talent to Shape African Narratives

Under the guidance of UM6P’s Story School and the French-African Foundation, KESSA’s inaugural residency from March 23-28, 2026, will be held at UM6P’s Rabat campus in Morocco. Through masterclasses, workshops, and collaborative projects, participants will develop their skills in digital storytelling, writing, performance, and visual mediums. The program also emphasizes hands-on exposure to professional encounters and personalized mentoring, all aimed at creating impactful works that reflect Africa’s diversity and potential.

Meriem Idrissi Kaitouni, Director of UM6P Story School, highlighted the high stakes of Africa’s evolving narratives: “Through KESSA, we hope to build a new narrative framework that actively celebrates Africa in all its diversity and creativity. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem of storytellers, we aim to help rewrite the global understanding of Africa.”

Opportunities Beyond the Residency

The influence of KESSA extends far beyond its week-long residency. Participants will gain access to a thriving pan-African network of creators, cementing their place in a dynamic cultural movement. Their works and profiles will be showcased through a continent-wide communication campaign, leveraging press, broadcasting, and digital platforms to maximize their reach and influence. With support from institutional partners and influencers, KESSA alumni will become ambassadors of a brighter, more authentic African narrative on the world stage.

Eligibility for this prestigious program is open to professionals aged between 25 and 40 with at least five years of experience in creative disciplines, including cinema, literature, music, visual arts, urban culture, and social innovation. Applicants have until January 10, 2026, to submit their interest at www.kessa.africa. This initiative isn’t just a platform for storytelling; it’s a call to action to redefine Africa’s legacy and inspire the world through its stories.