Reflections from Fiona Tande

Words from Fiona Tande, EC50 Class of 2024:

My journey into the world of wildlife conservation and filmmaking has been shaped by a profound sense of purpose—one that echoes the stirring call to action captured so beautifully in Cynthia Erivo’s song, “Stand Up.” The lyrics of this powerful anthem reflect the awakening I experienced, compelling me to rise and take a stand for the stories that desperately needed to be told: the untold narratives of Africa’s wildlife, the custodians of these lands, and the urgent need for conservation.

From Personal Awakening to a Pan-African Movement

My career began in the heart of Kenya, a land of unparalleled natural beauty and biodiversity, where I was born and raised. Over the years, I witnessed how stories of our wildlife were often told through lenses that were not our own—stories that, while visually stunning, lacked the depth and authenticity of the local voice. This disconnect inspired me to create Pridelands Films in 2019, with the goal of bridging the gap between local talent and the global stage, ensuring that African wildlife stories are told by those who live them.

PWFF: A Homecoming for African Storytellers

Pridelands Films was just the beginning. In 2022, I founded the Pridelands Wildlife Film Festival, affectionately known as “The Nkaang’ Festival,” a name derived from the Maasai word for “home.” PWFF was born out of a necessity to reclaim our narrative—a platform where African filmmakers could come together to celebrate their work, share their perspectives, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of wildlife conservation. The festival’s mission is to amplify the voices of African storytellers, honoring their talent, culture, and perspectives on wildlife and conservation.

PWFF has rapidly grown into a beacon for conservationists and filmmakers across the continent and beyond. Our inaugural event was a resounding success, attracting a diverse group of filmmakers, conservationists, and thought leaders who all share a passion for storytelling and a commitment to preserving our natural world. The festival is not just an event; it is a homecoming—a place where African storytellers can connect, learn, and showcase their work on their terms, in their voices.

Our activities at PWFF are designed to empower these emerging storytellers. From panel discussions that tackle pressing issues in wildlife filmmaking to masterclasses that hone essential skills, the festival is a nurturing ground for talent. We also emphasize community engagement, with conservation activities that highlight the vital work being done on the ground, providing storytellers with direct access to these initiatives and fostering opportunities for collaboration.

Answering the Call: Empowering a New Generation of Conservationists

The work we are doing through Pridelands Films and PWFF is more than just filmmaking; it is about shifting the narrative on how the world sees Africa. It is about empowering local communities to tell their own stories and engage in conservation efforts that are crucial to the survival of our planet’s biodiversity. Every film, every story, and every connection made through PWFF is a step toward a future where African voices lead the global conversation on conservation.

The lyrics of “Stand Up” have served as a guiding light on this journey, reminding me to keep moving forward, to keep standing up for what I believe in, and to keep pushing for change.

The Explorers Club’s recognition of my work as part of the EC50 Class of 2024 is a testament to the impact we are making, and it is an incredible encouragement to continue this important work.

Header Photo: Brian Etole