As I reflect on a decade of engagement with African entrepreneurs, I am proud to present Imagination, Hope, Change: Parminder Vir OBE on the Stories of TEF Entrepreneurs Transforming Africa— where I share a series of films that not only celebrate the transformative impact of the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme (TEF), but also reflect my lifelong passion for storytelling and advocacy through film.
When I arrived in Nigeria in 2014 to join the Tony Elumelu Foundation, I brought with me over three decades of experience in film production. As a filmmaker, I had long understood the power of storytelling to inspire change and challenge perceptions.
From the outset, I prioritised documenting entrepreneurs’ stories as an integral part of the 7 Pillars of the TEF Entrepreneurship Programme. Through compelling narratives, vibrant visuals, and the authentic voices of entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries, these documentaries reveal African entrepreneurs’ challenges and triumphs. They celebrate innovation, resilience, and the collective drive to redefine Africa’s economic landscape.
The series includes:
1. Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurs: Transforming Africa (2015): This film captures the vision and impact of the programme’s inaugural year. It highlights the first cohort of entrepreneurs from 54 African countries and the vibrant community-building at the 2015 TEF Bootcamp.
2.Transforming African Entrepreneurs (2016): Exploring the programme’s rapid growth, the rise of female participation, and the compelling narratives of the 2016 cohort.
3. Empowering African Entrepreneurs: A Story of Impact (2018): Highlighting the remarkable success of 12 entrepreneurs from the 2015–2017 cohorts and showcasing the programme’s measurable impact on job creation and revenue growth.
4. Leaving Behind a Legacy: Mother of African Entrepreneurs (2019) and Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of TEF (2020): These heartfelt short films reflect on my tenure at TEF, the programme’s enduring legacy, and the resilience of African entrepreneurs during challenging times.
