The second annual Screenwriters Workshop took place recently at The Mico University College in Kingston. The two-day event, which is dedicated to the nurturing and supporting of local aspiring talent in entertainment by providing them with the tools and resources that are needed to pursue and develop a career in the film industry, was hosted by Strike Star Entertainment.

The educational charity workshop was established last year in collaboration with entertainment industry giant, actor, writer, director and producer, the late Paul Eckstein (creator of the Godfather of Harlem and Narcos), and Grammy Award-winning music producer and actor, Bryce Wilson of the duo Groove Theory, best known for the Billboard-charting hits Tell Me and Baby Luv.

This year saw an exciting lineup of Hollywood and Nollywood actors, directors and producers in attendance. The keynote speakers and instructors included Orlando Jones, actor, producer and writer; Dallas Jackson, movie director and writer; Marvin Peart, movie producer; Natalie Thompson, owner of Cinecom Productions; Robert Maylor, lawyer, producer and screenwriter; Sean Murdock, writer; Vanessa Ballesteros, TV producer; Editi Effiong, owner of Anakle Films; and Robenson Lauvince, director.

The event which was supported by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sports benefitted from a partnership with popular Spring Water Company Lifespan Company Limited.

Lifespan recognises the importance of the creative industries as a vehicle for growth and did not hesitate to jump on board for the second consecutive year. CEO, Nayana Williams divulged that the workshop is compatible with the company’s Sustainable Development Goals Number 1- No Poverty, and Number 8- Decent work and Economic Growth.

“My very first job was as a graphics artist, so I have a soft spot for the creative industry. I have witnessed firsthand how this particular workshop benefits aspiring actors, screenwriters and others,” Williams shared.

“Lifespan is happy to deepen the relationship with this very worthwhile initiative. We have no doubt that this year’s workshop will unleash new talent, hungry to bring their stories to the silver screen,” she added.

Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, announced that the Ministry sponsored 10 persons to attend the workshop.

Lifespan also prides itself on youth development and as such, in addition to its contribution of water, it has also sponsored 5 aspiring writers. “We are intrigued and excited to see the amazing productions these ambitious filmmakers come up with,” Williams ended.