Mimi Bartels Appointed To Realness Institute’s Board And Alumni Advisory Council

According to industry reports, Nigerian filmmaker and producer Mimi Bartels has been appointed to the advisory council of the Cape Town-based Realness Institute. The organisation, renowned for nurturing independent African storytellers in film and television, recently unveiled its new Board and Alumni Advisory Council to guide the institute toward a more sustainable future.

Bartels is among nine alumni selected to serve on an advisory sub-committee to the Board, bringing hands-on experience from previous Realness programmes. The council will work closely with the Board and operational team to shape the organisation’s strategic direction and develop an enhanced alumni network.

Founded in 2015, Realness Institute has been instrumental in promoting African voices through skills development, mentoring, and networking opportunities that connect emerging talent with professionals both on the continent and globally. Its flagship programmes include the Creative Producer Indaba, a fellowship supporting producers in sustainability and co-financing, and the AuthenticA Series Lab, which develops episodic content in partnership with StoryBoard Collective and Series Mania.

Over the years, the institute has empowered more than 200 industry professionals, many of whom have become award-winning producers, writers, and directors with works showcased at prestigious festivals such as Sundance, Cannes, and Venice.