BU Film Fest CIC • Community & Cultural Awareness Campaign
Why We’re Fundraising
With the powerful global release of Ireke: Rise of the Maroons, BU Film Fest CIC is launching a bold campaign to bring international awareness to Maroon communities - descendants of enslaved Africans who preserved their freedom, identity, and culture across the Caribbean, South America, and beyond.
Their stories have been overlooked for generations. We’re here to change that - and we need your help.
Who We Are
We are BU Film Fest CIC, a Community Interest Company (CIC) based in the UK.
Our mission is to highlight underrepresented voices through film, education, and storytelling - especially from communities that have historically been silenced.
We believe cinema can spark global change, preserve heritage, and amplify identity.
What We’re Raising £1,000,000 For
Your donations will power a global awareness campaign focused on Maroon identity, culture, and legacy - using the film as a launchpad to educate, connect, and empower.
Here’s how we’ll use the funds:
International Screening Tour - Free community screenings and discussions in Maroon communities across Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Curacao, Colombia, Brazil, and diaspora hubs in the UK, USA, and Canada.
Education Packs - Creating digital toolkits and resources for schools, youth groups, and universities to teach Maroon history.
Maroon Storytelling Grants - Supporting emerging filmmakers and artists from Maroon backgrounds to tell their own stories.
Digital Archive - A free online hub documenting oral histories, traditions, and films focused on Maroon resistance and resilience.
BU Film Fest Infrastructure - Upgrading our capacity to serve global audiences, produce meaningful events, and keep access free for all.
How You Can Help
Donate - Every pound counts. Your gift brings this vision to life.
Share the campaign - Help us reach allies and supporters around the world.
Partner with us - Cultural organisations, universities, and media outlets are welcome to collaborate.
100% of Donations Support the Cause
We are a not-for-profit CIC. All funds will go directly toward campaign activities.
There are no perks, no rewards - just pure donation to a public cause.
Please note: Donations are not eligible for Gift Aid as BU Film Fest CIC is not a registered charity.
Why It Matters
“Maroon communities fought for their freedom - and won. Their legacy is living proof of resistance, resilience, and cultural survival.”
- Statement from BU Film Fest CIC
“Culturally Bold.”
- Bukky, London
Follow Our Journey
Website: www.irekemovie.com
Email: [email redacted]
Instagram / X / Facebook: @irekemovie
Together, we rise.
Help us honour the past, empower the present, and preserve Maroon voices for generations to come.
Donate now - and be part of the movement.
Organizer
Chukwuemeka-Emmanuel Anyiam-Osigwe
Organizer
England