Afreximbank, through its Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme, invites emerging filmmakers from Africa, the Caribbean, and the diaspora to participate in the 4th edition of CANEX Shorts. The competition seeks compelling, original storytelling across short fiction, documentary, and animation, reflecting the voices and perspectives shaping the continent’s creative future. CANEX Shorts will conclude with film screenings and an award ceremony at CANEX WKND 2026, taking place in Lagos, Nigeria, from 5–8 November 2026.
The competition is open to Africans living on the continent and in the diaspora, and filmmakers from the Caribbean. The filmmaker must currently be between the ages of 18 and 35 at the time of submission, and the film must have been made in 2024 or later. At the time of making the film, the filmmaker must also have been between the ages of 18 and 35. Substantiation may be requested.
CANEX Short Submission Requirements:
● The filmmaker must own all rights to the film, including music, and must be able to provide supporting documentation where required.
● Films may be submitted in any language; however, films not in English must include English subtitles.
● A digital viewing link to the film must be provided as part of the submission.
● Only one film per filmmaker will be accepted.
● Selected filmmakers will be required to sign a release and/or rights agreement.
● Entrants must have a valid bank account capable of receiving international payments.