Queen Eghujovbo champions African stories at film festival in Canada
By Godwin Okondo
ACTRESS, public relations professional, and humanitarian Queen Eghujovbo has put a call to African filmmakers to seize a global platform by submitting their works for the Windsor International Black Film Festival (WIBFF 2025) set to take place from August 15 to 17 in Windsor, Canada. As the founder and president of Vigor Awards International, WIBFF and Windsor International Diaspora African Festival (WIDAFest), Eghujovbo is a trailblazer who is dedicated to amplifying African narratives and fostering social change through the power of film.
In a recent conversation while in Nigeria, Eghujovbo shared the inspiration behind establishing WIBFF, emphasizing its role in elevating untold stories.
“The Windsor International Black Film Festival was borne out of a passion for telling untold stories, especially those of Africans and the Black community,” she said. “Film is a powerful medium to educate, inspire and challenge stereotypes. By showcasing African voices and narratives, we amplify our heritage, struggles and achievements while fostering a greater understanding of our experiences.”
Eghujovbo’s vision for the festival stems from her commitment to creating spaces where African and Black voices can shine without competing against larger productions. The 2025 WIBFF aims to build on the success of its inaugural event in 2024, which showcased over 15 films from over 50 submissions, highlighting diverse genres such as feature films, documentaries, and children’s films. By encouraging African filmmakers to submit their entries, Eghujovbo hopes to provide visibility and opportunities for authentic storytelling on an international stage.
Beyond her work in film, Eghujovbo is a passionate advocate for African migrants in Canada, addressing critical challenges they face.
Queen Eghujovbo
“African migrants in Canada face challenges such as cultural adjustment, employment barriers, discrimination, and vulnerability to exploitation,” she explained. “Many lack proper guidance and legal knowledge, making them susceptible to modern slavery. Communities can support them by providing mentorship, access to resources, advocacy, and safe spaces where they can connect and thrive.”
As the founder of Windsor’s first African community centre known as the African Village Community Centre, Eghujovbo has created a vital hub for cultural exchange and empowerment.
“The African Village Community Centre in Windsor is a cultural hub that fosters unity and celebrates African heritage,” she said. “We ensure its authenticity by engaging community members, hosting traditional events, and supporting African-owned businesses. It has become a vital space for cultural exchange, education, and economic empowerment.”
Juggling her roles as a festival organizer, human rights advocate and cultural leader is no small feat, but Eghujovbo remains driven by her purpose, as she said, “Balancing my various roles is challenging, but passion and purpose keep me going. I have an incredible team, and I prioritize strategic planning and collaboration. The positive impact of our initiatives, seeing lives transformed, and the resilience of our community fuel my motivation despite obstacles.”
Looking ahead, Eghujovbo envisions a future where African migrants are fully integrated and thriving in Canada. “I hope for a future where African migrants in Canada are fully integrated, empowered, and thriving in all sectors,” she said. “I see my initiatives expanding through stronger advocacy, greater access to resources, and deeper collaborations to create sustainable opportunities for African communities.”
Eghujovbo’s call to African filmmakers underscores her mission to use film as a catalyst for change, as she invites them to share their stories at the 2025 WIBFF. With her multifaceted efforts, she continues to pave the way for cultural celebration, social justice, and community empowerment in Windsor and beyond.
