Author: Otuosoro Stephanie Amaranjo

In a world where stories have the power to transform lives, there's a tale that urgently needs to be told—one of strength, tenacity, and hope. It's the story of the fight against cervical cancer, and at its heart lies the remarkable initiative of the Storytellers for Change Film Grant (STFC) worth $10,000. This collaborative venture, spearheaded by Melanin Unscripted in partnership with The Cervical Cancer Free Nigeria Campaign, is not just about filmmaking; it's about using the art of storytelling to make a tangible impact on women's health in Nigeria.

The Mission of the STFC Grant:

At the core of this initiative is a mission to empower Nigerian filmmakers to use their art for a meaningful cause. The STFC grant serves as an enterprise for filmmakers who aspire to create compelling narratives about cervical cancer. 

Filmmaker and Melanin Unscripted CEO, Amarachi Nwosu, passionately expresses the venture's purpose: "Cervical cancer is a serious health problem in Nigeria that is preventable. We believe that storytelling can be a powerful tool for education and change."

The Significance of Cervical Cancer Awareness in Nigeria:

Cervical cancer is a silent but significant health concern in Nigeria, affecting women's lives in profound ways. In 2020 alone, there were approximately 17,000 new cases of cervical cancer and 10,000 deaths in Nigeria. The importance of awareness cannot be overstated, and Nigerian filmmakers are poised to play a pivotal role in addressing this issue.

The average age of a woman diagnosed with cervical cancer in Nigeria is 45 years old, highlighting the urgent need for early detection and prevention. Furthermore, only about 20% of women in Nigeria have ever had a Pap test, underscoring the critical importance of raising awareness and providing access to screening and prevention services.

Partnerships and Collaborations:

No impactful initiative stands alone, and the STFC grant is no exception. It has garnered the support of influential organisations such as UN Global Goals, a global initiative that aligns perfectly with the objectives of the STFC grant, emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve global health targets; Document Women, founded by Emmy-nominated investigative journalist and filmmaker Kiki Mordi, which brings a wealth of experience in shedding light on critical issues. Other partners include Global Oncology, Family Inc and LLandB. These partnerships bring together expertise, resources, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the battle against cervical cancer.

Details About the Grant Competition:

For filmmakers who are eager to take up the challenge, the STFC grant competition provides a platform for their creative vision. The application period commenced on September 14, 2023, and will close on October 12, 2023. Eligibility criteria and submission guidelines are available at riseinlight.org. This is the opportunity to transform storytelling into a powerful tool for change.

The grant competition is open to filmmakers across Nigeria, encouraging diversity in storytelling and perspectives. It offers an exceptional opportunity to not only win financial support for their projects but also to contribute to a cause that holds immense significance in the country.

The Hope:

Ultimately, the STFC grant is not just about filmmaking; it's about raising awareness, providing education, and driving change. It's about rewriting the narrative of cervical cancer, one story at a time. Together, through the lens of these talented filmmakers, the aim is to change lives, inspire hope, and contribute to a healthier future for women in Nigeria.