Date: May 16, 2025 Locations: • Liberia: Embassy of Sierra Leone, Congo Town • Sierra Leone: Freetown
Monrovia, Liberia — Under the theme, Uniting the African Diaspora through Cinema and Culture, the Journey Home Film Festival (JHFF) and the Liberia Film Awards, which are scheduled for June 18th -21st, are proud to announce the 2025 Nominations Mixer, a landmark event set to take place simultaneously in Liberia and Sierra Leone on May 16, 2025. This highly anticipated mixer will celebrate the official nomination announcements for both the Journey Home Film Festival’s Top 3 Feature and Short Films, and all category nominees for the Liberia Film Awards.
Now recognized as one of the region’s most significant cultural events, the Journey Home Film Festival showcases powerful African storytelling and cinematic excellence, with a spotlight on filmmakers from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Ghana, USA, Canada, Sweden, and all around the world. The Liberia Film Awards continues to elevate and honor outstanding talent, both emerging and established, across the African film landscape.
Event Highlights and Purpose
The Nominations Mixer will serve as an opportunity to: • Announce the 2025 Nominees for both festivals. • Connect and engage industry professionals, nominees, and film enthusiasts. • Hear from international judges, participating virtually from the United States and beyond, who will offer words of encouragement and insights on African cinema. • Promote cultural diplomacy through the presence of high-ranking diplomats and ministers from both countries. A Dual Celebration Across Borders
The mixer will unfold in two simultaneous events: •
In Liberia, the Sierra Leonean Ambassador to Liberia will give opening remarks alongside organizers and government representatives. The ceremony will include live nomination announcements and a virtual judges’ panel from across the globe. • In Sierra Leone, SaloneJamboree will host a celebration in Freetown, uniting Sierra Leonean filmmakers for a viewing of the announcements and a joint Zoom session with judges.
Program Highlights
1. Opening Remarks from Ambassadors and Foreign Affairs Ministries of both countries. 2. Nominations Announcement for Top 3 Films and Liberia Film Awards categories. 3. Virtual Session with International Judges offering feedback and encouragement. 4. Networking Opportunities for nominees, creatives, and cultural leaders. 5. Special Announcement of a new Liberia–Sierra Leone film collaboration. 6. Closing Remarks celebrating the growing influence of West African cinema.
Key Participants
• Ambassadors: Liberian Ambassador to Sierra Leone & Sierra Leonean Ambassador to Liberia • Foreign Affairs or representatives from both nations • Journey Home Film Festival Organizers • International Film Judges (joining virtually) • Nominated Filmmakers & Industry Leaders • Government Officials, Cultural Stakeholders, and Film Enthusiasts
Looking Ahead
This year’s mixer sets the tone for a vibrant and inspiring film festival season. By showcasing exceptional talent, nurturing cross-border collaboration, and amplifying African voices, the Journey Home Film Festival and Liberia Film Awards continue to shape the future of cinema in West Africa. Join us on May 16 as we celebrate the art, passion, and power of African storytelling.
Media Contact: Journey Home Film Festival Communications
📧 info@journeyhomefest.org
