British actor Idris Elba is passionate about creating a platform for storytelling in Sierra Leone. He envisions a place where the rich narratives of Africa can be nurtured and shared. In pursuit of this dream, Elba plans to establish a world-class film and television school on Sherbro Island, located in the Atlantic Ocean off Sierra Leone’s coast.
Sherbro Island, with its pristine beaches and relatively underdeveloped coastline, holds immense potential as a tourism destination. It’s also a nesting ground for green sea turtles and a favorite spot for sports fishermen seeking the world’s largest tarpons. Elba, whose father hails from Sierra Leone, aims to revitalize the island by leveraging international investors and collaborating with environmental and cultural organizations.
But this endeavor is more than just about tourism. Elba wants to change perceptions about Africa. Growing up in London, he witnessed derogatory stereotypes associated with Africans. Determined to reframe these views, Elba shortened his name from Idrissa to Idris. Now, he’s taking it a step further by establishing a film school that will empower aspiring filmmakers and storytellers.
Elba’s commitment to Sierra Leone extends beyond the silver screen. From portraying Nelson Mandela in “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” to blockbuster roles in “The Suicide Squad” and “Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw,” he’s now investing in the future of African cinema. Through education and creativity, Elba hopes to empower a new generation of storytellers who will proudly proclaim, “We need to tell our own story.”
