Kelechi Eke, founder of The African Film Festival (TAFF) in Dallas, Texas, and winner of the prestigious American President Lifetime Achievement Award, will soon be inducted as a leader in his hometown. Hailing from Amafor, Imerienwe in Imo State Nigeria, Kelechi will be awarded the title “Ichie Ihemba” in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development of his community.
The coronation ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, December 26, at its traditional king’s palace in Imerienwe, Ngor Okpala Local Government, Imo State. Kelechi is already on site, finalizing the final details in preparation for the big day. Its annual festival, the Village Arts and Film Festival (VILLAFFEST), which takes place in Owerri, the Imo State capital, will open its doors this Sunday at the Swiss International Beland Hotel.
The festival, which will be held for four days, will bring together Nollywood stars and directors as every year and will feature art exhibitions, cultural performances, film screenings, masterclasses and an awards ceremony.
Kelechi launched VILLAFFEST in 2020 with the aim of celebrating indigenous arts and films, as well as preserving and appreciating local culture. “Through VILLAFFEST, I have empowered budding artists and undiscovered talents hidden in different African villages. Whether in filmmaking, visual art or performance, I want to continue to encourage young Africans who are interested in arts and culture,” Kelechi said.
This recognition as a leader in his home community is a testament to the positive impact he has had on his region through his work in the film industry. It is an honor that also highlights the importance of supporting African culture and arts.
As the founder of TAFF and organizer of VILLAFFEST, Kelechi helped promote African films and showcase the continent’s talents. It has also provided opportunities to emerging artists by providing them with a platform to exhibit their work.
This coronation ceremony and the accompanying festival are important events that highlight Kelechi’s work as a promoter of African culture and cinema. They also emphasize the importance of preserving and promoting local tradition and arts.
In conclusion, the induction of Kelechi Eke as the leader of his community and the organization of the VILLAFFEST festival are testament to his unwavering commitment to African culture and art. These events help to strengthen the visibility and influence of the continent’s talents, while emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage. Congratulations to Kelechi on these outstanding achievements!
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