THE SEAT DOWN: Recent Episodes
Mark Wambui
The Seat Down is a conversation about the life and work of Africa's outstanding content creators.
The conversation with each creator occurs and is published simultaneously in two parts; The first part "the podcast" covers their life and how that has influenced their work while the second part "the video" is an in-depth study of their craft using some of their published work as a reference.
The show is hosted by Mark Wambui who is also a content creator from Nairobi, Kenya and the Founder of Re-tuning Cinema in Africa | RECA.
Watch Youtube Episode: https://youtu.be/WKeg2ejyOAgIn this final episode of The Seat Down, we wrap up the season with a bang, welcoming Tanzanian powerhouse Hatibu Madudu. He's not just a TV producer, director, and social worker – he's a weaver of award-winning films and gripping TV shows with a mission. Get ready to be inspired by Hatibu's passion for using his craft to ignite positive change in Tanzania and beyond.This is more than just an episode – it's a celebration of the transformative power of storytelling and the incredible impact one person can have with a camera and a dream.#TheSeatDown #HatibuMadudu #socialchange #storytellingforchange
Watch Youtube Episode: https://youtu.be/TSY04lk2V94This episode of "The Seat Down" takes us on a journey into the heart and mind of a creative powerhouse: Jennifer Gatero, the Kenyan scriptwriter and producer whose work has captivated audiences and earned critical acclaim.Jennifer's passion for storytelling goes far beyond the screen. She uses her craft to delve into the depths of social issues, shining a light on the experiences and challenges faced by women in her community and beyond.Join us for a conversation that transcends the glitz and glamour of award ceremonies. We'll delve into:The power of storytelling to ignite social change: How Jennifer's narratives tackle complex themes with nuance and empathy.From script to screen: The journey of bringing a story to life: The challenges and triumphs of navigating the Kenyan film and television industry.Finding your voice and amplifying the voices of others: Jennifer's insights on discovering your unique storytelling perspective and using it to empower others.
Watch Youtube Episode: https://youtu.be/2RFtqEPLJMMIn this episode, we delve into the captivating world of voice artistry with Jennifer as she generously shares her unwavering passion for storytelling and the profound impact of her voice on connecting with people. Join us as Jennifer recounts her journey, revealing the pivotal moments that set her on the path to becoming a prominent voice in the industry. From the initial steps she took to the challenges she encountered along the way, Jennifer's narrative is both inspiring and relatable.Aspiring voice-over artists and enthusiasts alike will find this episode particularly enriching, as Jennifer imparts valuable advice on navigating the industry. She emphasizes the significance of discovering one's unique voice and the continuous development of skills. So, whether you're a dedicated follower of voice-over work or simply curious about the intricacies of the craft, this episode promises a wealth of insights and inspiring stories.Grab your favourite beverage, find a comfortable spot, and join us for an illuminating conversation with the talented Jennifer Kanari in Episode 3 of 'The Seat Down.' Sit back, relax, and let the stories unfold!"
The Seat Down Episode 2 features a fascinating conversation with Gregory Kiwo, a talented gaffer and director of photography based in Kenya. Hosted by [host name], this episode delves into Gregory's creative process, his experiences working on local and international productions, and his passion for creating visually stunning films. Tune in to hear Gregory's insights and stories, and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of visual storytelling.
Welcome to Season 3 of The Seat Down Podcast. In today's episode, we are excited to introduce Nick Wambugu, an award-winning film director, producer, and drone pilot based in Kenya. Nick is known for directing and producing several documentaries and short films, all with a focus on telling human-centred stories that shed light on different people around the world. We'll be delving deeper into his passion for storytelling and his fascinating experiences throughout his career.
Kenny Kyalo is a passionate and renowned 3D artist from Kenya with skills ranging from character work to CG environments. On the Youtube episode, he takes through how he tackles his 3D animation projects: https://youtu.be/2O9F8WRc7Ts
Watch Youtube Episode: https://youtu.be/ai7pAlbetKc
Isa is an award-winning filmmaker working and living in Nairobi, Kenya who has a passion for immersive mediums. Forging a path through his ever-growing curiosity towards the unlimited possibilities of creation and storytelling within mediums, such as virtual reality & 360 videos. His goal is to bring to life African experiences and stories/literature in their purest form, through the cinematic and immersive use of VR and Extended reality.
Watch the Youtube episode here: https://youtu.be/DW1iV3TbLkA
Paul Ogola is a Kenyan-born actor. He has co-starred in 2 Netflix original series: Created & Directed by the makers of 'the Matrix trilogy' and Matrix 4-Sense 8 season 1&2 as "Jela", Sacred Games Season 2 as Erico. Also, co-starred in the FIPRESCI award-winning film Kati Kati, starred in the African Union Foundation award-winning film stories of our lives 2014, co-starred in the Kenyan entry for the Best Foreign Language Oscar at the 85th Academy Awards 'Nairobi Half Life'
Watch the Youtube Episode here: https://youtu.be/1IDaEUG1kE0
Pauline Kyalo is a screen and voice actor with six years of professional experience. Her latest screen acting work includes playing the characters ‘Reina’ on Showmax’s ‘Crime and Justice’ and ‘Ashley’ on Maisha Magic’s ‘MaEmpress’.
As for stage plays, her latest shows are from 2019 and include ‘Too Early For Birds; Tom Mboya Edition’, ‘Lwanda Rockman’, ‘Necessary Madness’, ‘Careless In Red’ and ‘The Vagina Monologues.
Watch the Youtube episode here: https://youtu.be/i-2Z54txC5s
Likarion is a multiple award-winning Director. His most recent film Supa Modo, a co-production of One Fine Day Films founded by Tom Tykwer, had its world premiere at the Berlinale Film Festival 2018 and got a special jury mention at the same festival before proceeding to receive 58 awards in the course of its festival run. The film also became Kenya’s Official Oscar submission for the 91st Academy Awards. Known for his short films, one of his first shorts became the first film in Kenya to screen on an IMAX cinema and also went on to receive multiple awards. His last short film BAIT which won a total of 11 awards screened at the Cannes Film Festival 2016. Likarion has also co-written and directed two sitcoms in Kenya. And is currently working on an African Sci-Fi tv series and also working on his sophomore feature film
Josephine Obudo is a freelance sound mixer with experience in documentaries, short and feature films, television, commercials, and corporate videos. Notable productions Josephine has been part of include: the political documentary, Nyandeng (2020 The Whickers Film and TV Funding Award), and the mental health feature film, Lusala (2019 Best Film Nominee, Durban International Film Festival). Other recent productions working on location, post-production, and live: Coke Studio Africa, Sema Nami (TV shows), Midlife Crisis, Salma (features), ICEA LION, Velvex (commercials), Morning After, Coachez (shorts), The Blue Economy, Tatu City (corporate videos) among others.
Hawi Kefale is a Creative Director. She has worked with multiple agencies in her country Ethiopia and some of the biggest brands like Diageo-Meta Abo Brewery, Habesha Brewery, UNICEF, IOM, GIZ, Alive and Thrive, Idomie Instant Noodles to name a few.
John Kibunguri Michuki who is known in the industry as Suki is one of the most decorated Make up artists in Kenya's film and or creative industry. Having worked as the makeup artist for Sauti Sol Live & Die in Afrika Tour, HE. Uhuru Kenyatta-President of The Republic of Kenya & William Ruto-Deputy President, and an endless list of films and Tv shows such as Rafiki the first African movie to premiere at the Cannes Festival, and Sense 8 Season 1 (Netflix) International TV series.
On this podcast, he tells us about his life journey from hustling around the city as a barber to being one of the most sought-after Makeup artists in Kenya.
David Anguka is a multiple award-winning producer and director with numerous accolades under his belt. He is the creative energy behind 'Pete', one of the most-watched TV shows in East Africa. Yet none of this compares to the riveting almost-unbelievable journey of his come-up in the world of film and in life itself. This episode is a must-listen.
This also marks the grand finale of the first season of our podcast and YouTube series: The Seat Down. What an incredible journey it has been! We want to say a big THANK YOU for listening and for watching.
We can't wait to share Season 2 with you.
Stay tuned!
Brain Munene, above all else, is a masterful screenwriter. He has perfected the art of reaching within himself for material to shape the characters he needs to create. In a strange and magical way, this has led him to tell even better stories while providing a channel for his own self-examination and reflection.
Gain more insight on how he tackles the art of crafting a story here: https://youtu.be/jAEzGgOB6nw
Nic Thuita, a photographer and cinematographer extraordinaire, is an outward representation of the fruits that grow from investing in your networks and building the confidence required to excel in these fields.
For more insight on how he tackles his work check out the extended Youtube interview: https://youtu.be/Pzf3EHusc_I
Ray Otieno represents the true definition of seeking and embracing discomfort. This decision has led him through exciting highs and difficult lows. Yet each experience has driven him to points of greater growth in his art and craft as an editor.
For the extended version. watch the full Youtube interview here: https://youtu.be/P-jwQ_rLhzg
Mark Maina is the creative energy behind the film, 'Neophobia' which was screened as the only African entry in the Prestigious Cannes Film Festival in 2017. Muti-talented, he has won multiple awards across the continent. He shares with us the chance encounters and the abounding faith on his journey of unearthing his full potential.
Watch the extended Youtube interview here: https://youtu.be/hdJ4Tjt6Yhk
Mohamed Zain, one of East Africa's top Steadicam operators, shares an inspiring conversation on the why investing in yourself is a sure way to guarantee success...something that can be clearly seen in the intriguing twists and turns of his own journey.
Watch a more indepth conversation with Mohamed on the art of steadicam operation here: https://youtu.be/zNqmwbMiydM
On this podcast exclusive episode we share an almost philosophical conversation with the renowned cinematographer from Nigeria.. Mr Adekunle on how we should perceive the journey of creativity in direct relation to life itself.
This episode follows an emotional tale of Kagho's loss and determination as he pursued his dream of cementing his place to become a world-class cinematographer in the highly dynamic world of Nollywood.
Watch the youtube episode where we dive deep into his work: https://youtu.be/-eGmUHkqaqY
Ep. 8 is an exploration of identity and clarity of voice. Elias takes us on an intimate journey of his life from Brazil where he was born to Capetown, South Africa where he now lives. A journey that correlates with his continuous growth in producing the most recognizable films on the continent
Watch an in-depth video on how he does it here: https://youtu.be/zpHFAOLLz_Y
Episode 7 takes a beautiful twist and turn into the beautiful story of a power couple whose meeting changed the face of South Africa's television industry. Together they shaped, are shaping and will shape what engaging TV content means in south Africa
Watch the youtube episode where we go into intimate detail on how to tell authentic stories: https://youtu.be/bzDA-iauYaY
This episode is an in-depth conversation about how Loukman's love for drawing went from being a childhood hobby to a successful career in visual effects. Have a seat and listen in to this amazing conversation with one of Uganda's best filmmakers and visual effects artist.
Watch our in-depth conversation on the art and craft of editing: https://youtu.be/_S814YrKdNc
This episode is an in-depth conversation about how a series of events can occur in your life that is the catalyst to you finding the path of your destiny. Have a seat and listen in to this amazing conversation I have with Rango Musau, who is one of the celebrated editors and colourist in Kenya.
Watch our in-depth conversation on the art and craft of editing: https://youtu.be/dmnjW5pIhfc
This episode is an in-depth conversation about one man's journey in pursuing his dreams against all odds. It refreshing reminder that our dreams are valid. Have a seat and listen in to this amazing conversation I have with Ishmael Azeli, who is one of the most sought after focus pullers in Kenya.
Watch our in-depth conversation on focus pulling and his work on the film Poacher: https://youtu.be/OBQFpyu2KiY
This Episode is a refreshing look at what consistency and hard work lead to. Have a seat and listen in to this amazing conversation I have with Tope Oshin, who is one of the most influential Nigerian Film Producer/Director of our time.
Watch the youtube episode: https://youtu.be/HoEyAHh5r68
This episode looks at the life and journey of Amil Shivji, a filmmaker born and raised in Tanzanian whose story feels like that of the prodigal son but in this version, he returns home from a film scholarship in Canada fused with an incisive desire to tell the stories of his people and his culture in a way that no one had ever done before... and spoiler alert he does with awards to show for it.
Watch the youtube episode: https://youtu.be/KvPlWlUHRCY
This episode looks at the life and journey of Godisamang a documentary filmmaker from South Africa. She talks to us about being raised by her mother who was an English teacher, studying film at AFDA and who she was able to make her breakout docu-series Black Women and Sex.
Watch the youtube episode: https://youtu.be/HmLjJgXJDvA
Hi,
This is your host Mark Wambui. Thank you so much for subscribing to the show. I'm so excited to be able to share with you conversations I've had with content creators in the continent whose work I admire and always look forward to.
Along the way, we will learn so much together about the journey all these creators have gone through and how they were able to master their craft.
Make sure you subscribe to our Youtube channel as well where we go into even more detail by breakdown their creative process using some of their published work.
Always Grateful, Mark Wambui