KESSA: Revolutionizing African Storytelling Through a Pan-African Initiative

KESSA: Empowering the Next Generation of African Storytellers

The launch of KESSA, a groundbreaking pan-African initiative, marks a transformative chapter in the world of storytelling across Africa. Designed by Story School, part of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), in collaboration with the French-African Foundation, this innovative program brings together creatives, journalists, and cultural entrepreneurs from across the continent. With its mission to reimagine African narratives and amplify diverse voices, KESSA is set to identify, train, and connect 30 emerging talents to share Africa’s stories with the world.

KESSA’s name, meaning “story” in Arabic and various African dialects, encapsulates the program’s intent to intertwine heritage, memory, and imagination with a modern lens. This initiative calls on storytellers to reshape perceptions, inspire global audiences, and empower a generation to control the narrative of Africa’s rich culture and history. By encouraging collaboration and experimentation, KESSA positions itself as a dynamic platform for creative innovation.

Fostering Creativity Through Collaboration

The residency program, taking place at UM6P Story School in Rabat, Morocco, from March 23 to 28, 2026, offers an immersive experience for the 30 selected participants. Their journey will include masterclasses led by African and international experts, hands-on workshops in digital storytelling, sound, visual arts, and collaborative sessions. This unique approach ensures participants not only hone their craft but also build meaningful connections across disciplines.

Eligible applicants, aged 25-40 with a minimum of five years of experience, span a wide array of fields such as film, literature, photography, music, journalism, and more. By fostering a multidisciplinary environment, KESSA encourages diverse perspectives that bring African stories to life in unexpected ways. Beyond the residency, laureates will become part of a broader pan-African network, enhancing their global footprint.

Transforming Representation of Africa

KESSA’s ambitious vision doesn’t stop at individual growth—it aims to redefine Africa’s portrayal on the global stage. The program’s first edition will culminate in a vibrant communications campaign, showcasing the selected talents’ work through press coverage, digital media, and partnerships with influencers and institutions. This ensures their voices resonate far beyond the continent.

As African cultural and creative industries continue to flourish, initiatives like KESSA underscore the importance of investing in homegrown talents. As Meriem Idrissi Kaitouni, Director of UM6P Story School, aptly puts it, “Changing representations and elevating African voices requires telling Africa’s stories differently, in all their diversity and creativity.”

How to Get Involved

Applications for KESSA are open until January 10, 2026. Aspiring participants are encouraged to visit www.kessa.africa for more details and to start their journey towards reshaping Africa’s narrative.

Through programs like KESSA, Africa holds the power to curate its narratives, reflecting a modern, innovative, and diverse continent ready to share its stories with the world. For creatives passionate about making a difference, this initiative promises to be the catalyst for transformational storytelling.