In a vibrant call to action, Queen Eghujovbo, a trailblazing actress, humanitarian, and cultural advocate, is urging African filmmakers to seize a global stage by submitting their work to the 2025 Windsor International Black Film Festival (WIBFF), set for August 15-17 in Windsor, Canada.
According to a statement, as the founder of Vigor Awards International, WIBFF, and the Windsor International Diaspora African Festival (Widafest), Eghujovbo’s mission is clear: to amplify untold African narratives and foster social change through the transformative power of film.
“Film is a powerful medium to educate, inspire, and challenge stereotypes,” Eghujovbo shared the inspiration behind WIBFF, a platform born from her deep passion for showcasing Black and African stories often overlooked by mainstream media, emphasising its role in celebrating African heritage while dismantling misconceptions.
By inviting filmmakers to submit entries for the 2025 festival, she hopes to elevate diverse voices and create a dialogue that resonates worldwide.
Eghujovbo’s work extends far beyond the festival. As the visionary behind Windsor’s first African Community Centre, she has created a sanctuary for African migrants, addressing critical challenges like cultural adjustment, discrimination and exploitation.
“Many lack proper guidance and legal knowledge, making them vulnerable,” she stated. Her solution? Community-driven support through mentorship, advocacy and safe spaces where migrants can connect and thrive. The African Village Community Centre, a cornerstone of her efforts, hosts traditional events and supports African-owned businesses, fostering unity and economic empowerment in Windsor.
Balancing her roles as a festival organiser, human rights advocate and cultural leader is no small feat, but Eghujovbo credits her resilience to an unwavering sense of purpose. “Passion and purpose keep me going,” she said, acknowledging her dedicated team and strategic collaborations. The impact of her initiatives—transformed lives, empowered communities and celebrated heritage—fuels her drive to overcome obstacles. Her vision for the future is ambitious: a Canada where African migrants are fully integrated and thriving, supported by expanded advocacy and sustainable opportunities.
The 2025 WIBFF promises to be a landmark event, building on Eghujovbo’s legacy of cultural celebration and social justice. By spotlighting African filmmakers, the festival not only offers visibility but also challenges global audiences to engage with authentic narratives. Eghujovbo’s multifaceted work—bridging film, humanitarianism and community-building—sets a powerful example of how art and advocacy can intertwine to create lasting change.
As the deadline for festival submissions approaches, Eghujovbo’s message to African filmmakers is one of encouragement and urgency: seize this opportunity to share your story. With her at the helm, WIBFF is poised to be a beacon of hope, creativity, and unity, illuminating African experiences for a global audience.
