Unveiling KESSA: Empowering a New Generation of African Storytellers

Africa’s storytelling legacy is set to reach new heights with the launch of KESSA, an ambitious pan-African initiative aimed at redefining narratives and shaping global perceptions. Announced by Mohammed VI Polytechnic University’s (UM6P) Story School in collaboration with the French-African Foundation, KESSA will serve as a residency program to identify, train, and unite the continent’s emerging voices. Designed to amplify Africa’s diverse creative spirit, the program will select 30 talents from various sectors, including journalism, digital storytelling, cultural entrepreneurship, and the arts, all committed to reshaping the African narrative.

Transforming the African Narrative Through Creativity

At its core, KESSA—as its name signifies in Arabic and several African dialects—represents “story,” symbolizing the deep connection between heritage, collective memory, and imagination. The initiative has arrived at an opportune moment as Africa’s cultural and creative industries experience dynamic growth. Narratives are becoming instrumental in driving social and economic change, and KESSA positions itself as a catalyst for this transformation. By creating a platform for collaboration and innovation, KESSA enables Africa to chart its own future while reimagining how it is perceived globally.

A Comprehensive Vision: What Participants Can Expect

The first edition of KESSA promises a robust and immersive residency from March 23 to 28, 2026, at the UM6P Story School campus in Rabat, Morocco. The program will feature masterclasses by African and international experts, hands-on workshops exploring digital storytelling, sound, performance, and more, alongside collaborative sessions and professional networking opportunities. The 30 selected participants will also benefit from tailored mentorship designed to support the creation of original works that reflect Africa’s modern ethos. Beyond the residency, laureates will join a vibrant pan-African network and gain visibility through targeted campaigns across media and influencer platforms.

Empowering Africa’s Visionaries

Open to professionals aged between 25 and 40, KESSA prioritizes experience in fields tied to storytelling and narrative innovation. Eligible disciplines span cinema, literature, visual arts, photography, cultural innovation, and even sports. This inclusivity reflects the program’s mission to embrace Africa’s rich cultural fabric while fostering global relevance. According to UM6P Story School Director Meriem Idrissi Kaitouni, “Changing representations and elevating African voices requires telling Africa’s stories differently, in all their diversity and creativity.” Her sentiments are echoed by Nachouat Meghouar, Managing Director of the French-African Foundation, who emphasizes the role of renewed narratives in fostering a positive, ambitious image of the continent.

Applications and Future Impact

Applications for KESSA are open until January 10, 2026, on www.kessa.africa, inviting pioneers in storytelling to join this transformative journey. Through its integration of artistic and cultural innovation, the program aspires to shift global perspectives, highlighting Africa’s contemporary relevance and future potential. As KESSA forges ahead, it not only empowers its participants but also sets the stage for Africa to redefine how its stories are told, heard, and celebrated on the global stage.