Empowering African Voices: Akunna Cook's Next Narrative Africa Fund Revolutionizing Global Entertainment
Akunna Cook, a former Foreign Service officer with experience in China, South Africa, and Baghdad, transitioned to the entertainment industry through her work on U.S.–Africa policy under President Biden. She collaborated with Hollywood showrunners to integrate policy issues into popular TV shows like Scandal and Black-ish. Recognizing Africa's growing media industries and young population, Cook founded the Next Narrative Africa Fund (NNAF) to invest $50 million in film and television projects from Africa and its diaspora. The fund aims to address gaps in development pipelines, IP ownership, and global recognition of African content.
NNAF has made significant progress, establishing an advisory board and receiving over 2,000 project submissions from 80 countries. Cook's unique career trajectory from government to entertainment has shaped her vision for the fund, emphasizing the importance of well-developed, impactful storytelling that resonates globally. By focusing on narrative quality, NNAF aims to elevate African voices and narratives on the world stage.
The fund's structure includes a $40 million commercial equity fund and a $10 million nonprofit venture studio to support script development. By prioritizing projects with international appeal and co-productions, NNAF aims to position African content for global success. The fund also emphasizes narrative impact, steering clear of negative stereotypes and promoting authentic storytelling on African themes.
Cook's advocacy for African ownership of narratives and intellectual property underscores the fund's mission to empower creators in negotiations with studios and streamers. By retaining IP rights, creatives can authentically tell their stories and shape the global narrative around Africa. With Africa's youthful demographic and cultural influence, Cook believes that investing in media and entertainment is a strategic move for future growth and influence.
Collaborating with government leaders in Africa, Cook seeks to create enabling environments for the entertainment industry across the continent. By engaging policymakers and advocating for incentives and infrastructure, NNAF aims to expand production opportunities beyond traditional hubs like South Africa and Morocco. Despite challenges posed by shifts in U.S. policy and funding, Cook remains committed to driving narrative change through impactful storytelling and cultural representation.