Aba Arthur Leads A Masterclass That Bridges Culture And Creativity, With TOP, BSIFF & UniMAC-IFT
On April 2nd, 2026, UniMAC-IFT Studio III buzzed with energy, filled with filmmakers, students, and creative minds eager to explore the art of storytelling. The Ohemaa Project (TOP), Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF), and the University of Media Art and Communication – Institute of Film and Television (UniMAC-IFT) hosted a masterclass designed to equip storytellers with the tools to craft narratives that resonate locally and globally.
Moderating the session was Graessle Nii Nai Anyetei, CEO of Castle Black, a Level 300 UniMAC-IFT student, and the SRC representative across all three institutes. His presence bridged the gap between emerging talent and industry guidance, keeping the dialogue dynamic and interactive.
The event was hosted by Aba Arthur, a Ghanaian-born actor and filmmaker raised in Colorado, USA, whose work spans Wakanda Forever (Black Panther 2), The Colour Purple, Bad Monkey, Queens, Southland, David Makes Man, and Bomerang. She holds a BFA in Acting and a BFA in Political Science and serves as an ambassador for BSIFF. With charisma and insight, Aba Arthur shared her experiences navigating both local and international storytelling landscapes.
Attendees included luminaries such as:
- Ms. Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante, Founder of BSIFF
- Mr. Owusu Ansah Castro Sarpong, Director of BSIFF
- Ms. Mariam, PR Manager of UniMAC-IFT
- Ms. Milady Orlanda Micaiah, SRC Vice President of UniMAC
- Mr. David Ammah, Filmmaker and Lecturer at UniMAC-IFT
- Mr. Larry M. K. Boafo, CEO and Founder of Loomflix
- Mrs. Monica Nannor Darko, Publicist to Aba Arthur and Head of Volunteers & Media Relations Officer, BSIFF
Castro, Juliet, Aba, Monica, Graessle, David and Ebenezer.
The session opened with Mr. Castro, who captivated the room with his vision for authentic storytelling:
“At the Black Star International Film Festival, we believe storytelling is not just about cameras and scripts. It’s about truth. It’s about identity. It’s about connection.”
He continued:
“Global impact doesn’t come from trying to sound like everyone else. It comes from being unapologetically yourself.”
From there, Aba Arthur led participants through the heart of the masterclass, which included four integrated areas: the power of authentic storytelling, narrative development and structure, practical discussion on crafting story ideas, and creating content for global impact.
She shared insights on the power of authentic storytelling:
“Our stories gain power when they reflect who we truly are. Authenticity builds the connection audiences remember long after the film ends.”
In discussing narrative development and structure, Aba Arthur stressed timing and rhythm:
“A story told too early or too late loses its impact. Knowing exactly when and how to enter a story makes all the difference.”
During the discussion on crafting story ideas, participants explored ways to generate and shape concepts into compelling narratives. Aba Arthur emphasized creative thinking and strategic planning:
“Think deeply about your characters, their world, and their journey. The story begins long before the camera rolls.”
Finally, in creating content for global impact, she emphasized collaboration over competition:
“Horizontal connections are just as important as vertical ones. The person next to you may be the key to reaching your audience. Rise together, build together.”
Throughout the masterclass, Aba Arthur repeatedly reinforced that stories need to be textured. Culturally rooted stories, when told with emotional truth, are what resonate universally. Participants left with practical insights, inspiration, and the motivation to craft narratives that are unapologetically authentic, emotionally engaging, and globally compelling.
The day ended with a sense of possibility, proof that when storytellers embrace their identity and collaborate, their work can truly transcend borders.
