Canon has once again strengthened its bond with Africa’s creative industry, celebrating Nigerian filmmaker Nora Awolowo’s creativity with an exclusive Lagos screening of Racket Queen, a visually stunning short film shot entirely on the Canon EOS C400 cinema camera.
The private screening, held in Lagos, brought together media professionals, filmmakers, and Canon’s creative community to experience the film’s moral lesson of resilience, determination, and triumph.
Beyond a film event, it was a statement of Canon’s growing investment in African storytelling and the next generation of visual creators.
“At Canon, we believe in the power of storytelling and the importance of equipping creators with the right tools to express their vision,” said Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director for Canon Central and North Africa.
“Our collaboration with Nora on Racket Queen reflects how technology and artistry come together to elevate filmmaking in Africa. We’re proud to continue empowering creators and building a thriving creative community across the region.”
The event featured two sessions, which included a morning media screening that offered an intimate viewing for journalists, followed by an evening industry gathering designed for filmmakers and Canon’s creative partners.
Each moment spotlighted Canon’s focus on enhancing film culture in Nigeria, while ensuring collaboration and conversation around emerging cinematic talent.
Adding to the excitement, Canon used the platform to unveil the EOS C50, its new entry-level cinema camera. Compact, powerful, and designed for accessibility, the C50 expands Canon’s professional lineup and supports aspiring filmmakers eager to step into professional production.
Racket Queen, Awolowo’s latest project in collaboration with Canon, follows the journey of a young girl who discovers her love for tennis and pursues her dream against all odds, guided by her mother’s solid support.
With standout performances from Pamilerin Ayodeji, Tunbosun Aiyedehin, Kayode Jnr Ojuolape, and Folu Storms, the film captures the spirit of perseverance and hope that aligns with many African stories.
“Working with Canon is always a creative partnership built on trust and innovation,” Awolowo said. “The EOS C400 gave me the flexibility and technical precision I needed to bring Racket Queen to life. I’m proud of what we achieved together and grateful for Canon’s continued support for filmmakers like myself.”
Awolowo spoke about her creative journey, from studying accounting to becoming one of Nigeria’s most distinctive visual storytellers. She described how her approach to cinematography embraces imperfection, movement, and the emotional weight of real life, blending visual symbolism with narrative sincerity.
Canon’s B2B Director for Africa, Fashad, commended Awolowo’s talent and the spirit of Nigerian creativity that drives the country’s entertainment industry.
“Every time I visit Lagos, I am reminded of the resilience and passion Nigerians bring to their craft,” he said. “This film celebrates that same spirit, resilience, determination, and the will to achieve. Talent is everywhere; it only needs to be recognised and nurtured. That’s why we are here, to back creativity, empower creators, and stand by them with our products, support, and technology.”
The collaboration aligns with Canon’s Innovation, Customer, and Employee Experience (ICE) strategy, which ensures creativity through access to advanced tools, mentorship, and training.
For over a decade, Canon has been a driving force in Nigeria’s visual industry, from partnerships with Netflix productions to hands-on training for content creators across the continent.
In Racket Queen, Awolowo goes beyond sports to deliver a heartfelt story about vision, family, and faith in one’s dreams, a reflection of Nigeria’s creative spirit.
