A new film festival in Manchester is drawing inspiration from African philosophies to shape its approach, focusing on pan-African thought, art, and the legacy of liberation movements. The event, titled 'See My World,' aims to showcase independent creators from the African diaspora across the north of England.

The festival is set to take place at the Contact theatre on November 21st and is part of See My World's ongoing year-round program dedicated to pan-African arts and culture. This initiative builds upon the momentum generated by local activists and creatives in Manchester, particularly following the 80th anniversary commemorations of the pivotal 1945 Pan-African Congress held in the city.

That historic congress brought together influential figures of post-war independence movements, fostering a shared vision for liberation. The 'See My World' festival seeks to connect with and continue this legacy by highlighting contemporary expressions of pan-Africanism through film, poetry, and dance.

According to Tunde Adekoya, CEO and artistic director of See My World, the festival is deeply influenced by a range of pan-African thinkers. He specifically cited the works of Kenyan writers John Mbiti and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o. Both writers challenged the notion of African intellectual inferiority and emphasized the significance of community and reclaiming indigenous ways of understanding the world for self-determination.

Mbiti, an Anglican theologian, explored commonalities between African religions and Christianity. In contrast, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, a Marxist writer known for his seminal 1986 book 'Decolonising the Mind,' argued that colonialism was driven by cultural and economic conquest, with language being a primary tool of oppression. Ngũgĩ famously chose to write in his native Gikuyu language rather than English, criticizing the role of missionary Christianity in colonial rule.

Adekoya stated that the festival will feature exclusive premieres of documentaries developed by the See My World team. These films reportedly explore themes of liberation as expressed through various art forms. The event is designed as a platform for global majority films originating from the north of England.

The festival's philosophical underpinnings emphasize learning from the past to inform the present and future. This approach aims to foster a deeper understanding of cultural identity and historical struggles among artists and audiences alike.

By connecting historical activism with contemporary artistic expression, 'See My World' seeks to create a vibrant space for dialogue and celebration of African diaspora culture within Manchester's arts scene.