Twenty Ghanaian filmmakers have stepped away from the demands of production to take part in a two-day creative retreat in Accra aimed at reflection, collaboration and resetting creative direction at the start of the year.

The initiative, known as Creatives’ Pause, was curated by AkunaPod in partnership with The British Blacklist and held on January 8-9, 2026, at the AkunaPod space in Accra. It brought together filmmakers from Ghana and the diaspora in what organisers described as an intentional space for honest dialogue and professional renewal.

Unlike traditional industry gatherings centred on pitching and premieres, the retreat was structured around slowing down. Organisers said it was designed to give filmmakers room to pause, reassess their creative journeys, reconnect with their creative voice and set intentions for the year ahead.

Over two days, participants engaged in guided conversations, collaborative sessions and reflective exercises focused on both personal growth and professional development. The atmosphere encouraged openness, clarity and the building of meaningful relationships across the creative community.

Filmmakers shared candid reflections on the realities of working within Ghana’s evolving film industry, discussing both the pressures and the possibilities. Conversations explored cross-border partnerships and ways to deepen collaboration between local practitioners and members of the diaspora.

Ghanaian cultural identity was embedded throughout the programme, with storytelling and reflective rituals forming a central part of the experience. Organisers said this grounding in heritage and lived experience was key to strengthening creative authenticity while positioning Ghana as a hub for globally relevant narratives.

According to the organisers, the retreat yielded new collaborative concepts, clearer professional goals and renewed creative momentum among participants. It also reinforced links between Ghana-based filmmakers and their counterparts abroad, contributing to what they see as a growing ecosystem for thoughtful and collaborative storytelling.

The retreat was co-led by Mariam A. Buahin, Chief Operating Officer of Akuna Ghana, alongside Akua Gyamfi, founder of The British Blacklist. Ms Gyamfi described the inaugural Creatives’ Pause as a strong and meaningful success that lays the groundwork for future editions.

AkunaPod Creative Hub positions itself as a platform dedicated to nurturing Africa’s creative economy by equipping content creators, actors, musicians and storytellers with tools, resources and a collaborative environment. Founded under the vision of the Akuna Group, the hub seeks to amplify authentic perspectives and foster global connections.

The British Blacklist, founded by Ms Gyamfi, operates as a media platform and creative ecosystem spotlighting Black and global majority talent across film, television, theatre, literature and sound. Through editorial content, events and industry initiatives, it supports visibility, connection and long-term career development for creatives in the United Kingdom and internationally.

With Creatives’ Pause, organisers say the aim is not only to create films, but to cultivate a reflective and resilient creative community capable of shaping Ghana’s cinematic voice within the global industry.