Doyinsola T. Ajayi, a rising filmmaker, began her journey with the 2022 Accelerate Filmmaker Project. Her latest film, Where Tides Meet, features an all-Indian cast and will screen at the Mississauga Fringe Festival from August 19 to August 25, 2024.
Ajayi is excited about her film’s screening on the festival’s opening night. She shared, “I directed a film with an all-Indian cast and it’s screening at the Mississauga Fringe Festival. It’s a great challenge and an opportunity to break new ground.”
She also discussed overcoming the language barrier during production. “When I got this opportunity, I didn’t see language or race as obstacles. It was a chance to test my directing skills. I was clear about my vision, and my cast worked hard to bring it to life.”
With nearly ten years in marketing, Ajayi decided to shift to filmmaking. Her first two short films Do or Die and Maki, have received selections and nominations at various local and international film festivals, including the Toronto International Nollywood Festivals.
Ajayi’s film Angel in the Stone, from the Ebonylife Creative Academy, features Shalewa, an autistic teenager whose talents help her community.
The film won ten awards, including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Lead Actress. It also received a nomination for Best Music Score at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival.
In a short time, Ajayi has made impressive progress in the film industry, showing great skill and vision. Her work is inspiring and suggests a bright future ahead for her and other emerging female filmmakers.
