In an inspiring leap towards cinematic collaboration, the Trinidad and Tobago Film Company (FilmTT) embarked on a groundbreaking trade mission to Ghana. This significant journey, taking place from March 10th to 17th, 2024, is a cornerstone in fostering a vibrant synergy between the film industries of Trinidad and Tobago and Ghana. Spearheaded by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, and facilitated by the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers Association (TTMA), this mission sets the stage for a collaborative future, paving the way for an era of shared creativity and innovation.
As the leading Caribbean exporter to Africa, representing 40% of the Caribbean’s exports to the continent, Trinidad and Tobago’s relationship with Ghana holds untold potential, particularly in the realm of film. Known for its rich cinematic history and rapidly growing film industry, Ghana offers fertile ground for collaboration. This is not the first time Ghanaian and Trinidadian narratives have intersected—the film ‘Hero: Inspired by the Extraordinary Life of Mr. Ulric Cross’ vividly captures this cross-cultural exchange, having been partly filmed in Ghana.
The trade mission promised and delivered a wealth of dialogues, knowledge sharing, and the initiation of joint ventures, aiming to leverage the unique strengths of each country to propel the film industries forward. Meetings with key Ghanaian stakeholders, including representatives from Media General, the National Film Authority, and Farmhouse Productions, signified strategic steps towards cementing Trinidad and Tobago’s position in the global film landscape as a beacon of creative excellence and innovation.
Among the hopeful outcomes of this venture are the establishment of formal partnerships, co-productions, and content exchange programs, as well as capacity development initiatives. Such efforts are expected to significantly boost the visibility and market presence of Trinidad and Tobago’s film industry not only in Ghana but on the international stage.
Leslie Ann Wills-Caton, General Manager of FilmTT, emphasized the mission’s underlying vision: not solely to forge new partnerships but to explore market opportunities that align with FilmTT’s strategic objectives. “Through dialogue, cooperation, and shared visions, we aim to create a dynamic ecosystem that empowers film professionals and fosters talent development,” said Wills-Caton.
As FilmTT continues to champion the Trinidad and Tobago film sector’s advancement through strategic alliances, it also upholds a culture of creativity, innovation, and inclusivity within the industry.
Stay connected with FilmTT’s journey and future collaborations by following their Facebook and Instagram pages: @discoverfilmtt. Dive into this narrative of cross-continental cinematic collaboration and be a part of shaping an inclusive, innovative, and interconnected film industry.
