Actress and Filmmaker Sope Aluko Premieres 'Chidera' at AFRIFF

In her emotionally charged short film, Sope Aluko delves into the profound themes of identity, heritage, and self-discovery. Set against the vibrant backdrop of a contemporary Nigerian-American immigrant community, ‘Chidera’ tells a compelling story that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.

The narrative follows Chidera, a high school teenager grappling with the intricacies of her cultural roots and the weight of familial and community expectations. As she embarks on a deeply personal quest for self-acceptance, the short film takes viewers on a mesmerizing and visually stunning cinematic journey.

Aluko, a Nigerian-born, British-American actress and emerging filmmaker, expressed her enthusiasm for being selected for the prestigious AFRIFF festival, saying, “Chidera is a project very close to my heart. It’s crucial to leverage film as a medium to shine a light on significant social issues and empower our youth. This short film embodies the message of resilience, self-love, and embracing one’s identity, and I can’t wait to share it with the world at AFRIFF.”