With the idea that no one is more qualified to tell the story of Sierra Leone than Sierra Leoneans themselves, WeOwnTV debuted in 2009 facilitating a month-long filmmaking workshop for 18 young men and women in Freetown, the country’s capital. As a result, the young filmmakers below are creating new works to share with you. In July 2010, fueled and inspired by these young collaborators, the doors of the WeOwnTV Sierra Leone Media Center opened to provide a space to meet, create, procure professional work and to continue their education.
In the summer of 2009, the Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars headed to New Orleans to record Rise & Shine, the follow up to their acclaimed debut album, Living Like A Refugee. With producer Steve Berlin of Los Lobos at the helm and New Orleans guests: Trombone Shorty, Washboard Chaz and the Bonerama Horns adding NOLA spice, the band created a beautiful musical statement that is both true to their Sierra Leonean traditions and roots and to their sense of optimism and musical exploration.
more »Talented vocal trio, Blessed Sons, perform an original song celebrating the election of President Barack Obama. WeOwnTV production crew met the Blessed Sons during their January scouting trip to Sierra Leone. Sadly, Kalman, one of the members of the group died unexpectedly in May 2010—an incredible talent and wonderful spirit. Rest in peace Kalman.
more »Meet WeOwnTV filmmaker and mentor, Barmmy Boy. A natural and charismatic leader Barmmy engages his peers in creative collaboration. An already accomplished musician and filmmaker, he exemplifies the talent and potential of his generation. Aware of the impact film can have on his generation in visualizing a positive future and sharing images and stories of Sierra Leone with the world, Barmmy is committed to serving as a role model for his peers and creating as a musician and filmmaker.
more »Meet WeOwnTV youth filmmaker Hanna Jimmy. Hanna proclaims her thankfulness for the assistance of WeOwnTV. She explains that although her home, the Kono district, is the leading supplier of materials—diamonds—support for education is neglected and they are ranked last in the country. Closing with a song, she sings; “Where will I be when the trumpet sounds;” alluding to the hope that new opportunity will enable her to be of greater value and service.
more »Black Nature, in many ways the inspiration behind WeOwnTV, introduces himself and shares the plight of his country and the devastation from which they are recovering. He discusses the opportunity presented by giving the young generation a platform to tell their stories. Introducing several of the young filmmakers, Nature describes the WeOwnTV program and its mission in Sierra Leone.
more »Written and directed by WeOwnTV’s Arthur Pratt, this three-minute film is about talented blind musician, Sorie Kondi. He is the only blind person who walks the streets of Freetown on his own and knows every area in the city. Married with four children, Sorie Kondi uses music to make money and leave an inspiring mark on the world.
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