Breaking the Frame: Nollywood Women Take the Spotlight with F.R.A.M.E.

Award-winning filmmaker and producer Biodun Stephen has announced her partnership and support for the Female Representation & Advancement in Media project, tagged F.R.A.M.E.  a bold and timely initiative curated by the Women In The Arts Collective. Set to debut at the Nigerian Film & TV Summit (NIFS) on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the Legend Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, F.R.A.M.E. aims to amplify female voices and accelerate gender equity within Nigeria’s media and entertainment industry.

F.R.A.M.E. is a pioneering incubator and accelerator program designed to empower emerging female filmmakers and storytellers with mentorship, training, and strategic resources to develop compelling narratives, refine their craft, and navigate the Nollywood landscape. Through a focus on community-building and inclusivity, the program sets out to shatter glass ceilings, elevate female perspectives, and reshape how Nigerian stories are told—on screen and behind the scenes.

For decades, Nollywood has served as a cultural force, defining narratives for Nigeria and the African continent. Yet, many of these narratives have been filtered through male-dominated perspectives, often marginalizing women’s voices and limiting female presence in leadership roles within the industry. F.R.A.M.E. boldly addresses this imbalance.

As a co-presenter, Biodun Stephen will deliver a keynote presentation titled “Rewriting Her Story”, which will explore the historical and contemporary portrayal of women in Nigerian cinema. Blending research, lived experience, and industry insight, the session aims to ignite vital conversations about representation, inclusivity, and equity in film.

Stephen will also feature in the panel discussion titled “Rewriting Her Story, Shaping the Future: Women’s Voices in Nigerian Film”, joined by industry legends Ego Boyo and Brenda Fashugba (Convener, Women In The Arts Collective), with Wana Udobang serving as moderator. The panel will explore strategies for increasing female leadership, enhancing workplace safety, and telling authentic, nuanced stories that reflect the diverse experiences of Nigerian women.

Speaking on the initiative, Biodun Stephen shared:

“For too long, women’s stories have been told for them—not by them. This incubator and accelerator program provides a platform for women to take control of their narratives, both on and off-screen, backed by the training, mentorship, and resources they need to succeed.”

F.R.A.M.E. will also create funding pathways for women-led projects and advocate for inclusive storytelling that breaks down harmful stereotypes.

Admission to NIFS 2025 is free with registration.