EbonyLife launches cinema and cultural center in London

Nigerian media company EbonyLife has opened a new cinema and cultural center in London, UK. This center will showcase Nollywood films and other Black and African movies.

Mo Abudu, the founder of EbonyLife, announced the opening in a post on X on Thursday. She called the center “a new destination for Black and African creativity, culture and connection in the heart of London.”

Located near Nine Elms in south-west London, EbonyLife Place London was revealed at a ceremony attended by London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, and Abudu.

At the launch, Abudu said the idea behind the project was to create more spaces for audiences to enjoy Black and African stories. She said, “I do think there is a younger audience of young people now that just want to see great storytelling.”

Abudu added, “We make great films, and I think we need to create experiences where people can come, and they can see the great work that we do in black cinema, in African cinema.”

She pointed out that the UK lacks enough venues for such films. She stressed that representation matters. “We don’t have enough spaces to serve black cinema in the United Kingdom… representation is so important to us,” she explained.

The cinema will mainly focus on Nollywood films. It will also show other movies that explore Black experiences.

Beyond film screenings, the center will host masterclasses, industry panels, and live performances featuring both established and upcoming talents.

The venue includes a Nigerian restaurant, a bar, and a lounge called Fàhinti. There is also a boutique showcasing African and diaspora designers and artworks celebrating the African diaspora.

The opening took place during the London Film Festival.

At the event, Sadiq Khan said London will keep investing in culture. He described the city as a major center for film production.