The Gospel Filmmaking Network (GFN) has launched its inaugural annual conference, which takes place from November 8 to 9, 2024, according to Gospel Film News.
During a press briefing on Thursday at Redemption City, Ogun State, the association’s Director General, Evangelist Kayode Babalola, highlighted the vision behind GFN. Established under the leadership of its Chairman, Evangelist Mike Bamiloye, and supported by a dedicated Board of Trustees, GFN aims to foster excellence within the gospel film industry. “Our leadership, with its wisdom and unwavering faith, has paved the way for this guild, which we believe is both timely and divinely inspired,” Babalola stated.
GFN is a unique network dedicated to the often-overlooked technical crew members working behind the scenes in Christian films. “For too long, recognition has been given to those in front of the camera. However, those diligently working in roles like directing, set design, makeup, sound engineering, and costume design often go unnoticed. At GFN, we aim to change that narrative,” he affirmed.
Babalola emphasized that GFN’s mission is to uplift gospel film production standards, promoting excellence in the portrayal of the gospel. “Our mandate is to present Christ’s message with excellence, creativity, and professionalism. Our films should not only communicate the heart of the gospel but also meet and surpass industry standards in technical quality, storytelling, and artistic merit. Excellence honors God, and that is our standard.”
He added that the network is committed to equipping every crew member involved in gospel filmmaking. Through training sessions, workshops, and masterclasses, GFN fosters skill development and encourages a spirit of unity among members. “We are more than a guild; we are a family of believers, using our gifts and talents to serve God’s kingdom, standing shoulder-to-shoulder to tell stories that bring hope, healing, salvation, and transformation,” he remarked.
Representing the GFN Board of Trustees Chairman, Evangelist Mike Bamiloye, Vice Chairman Rev. David Kola Okeowo reiterated GFN’s goal of uniting gospel film production crew members and elevating their contributions on a global stage. According to Bamiloye, GFN was first conceived in 2004 at Premiere Hotel, Ibadan. However, it was officially inaugurated on June 7, 2024, at the Drama Ministers Power Night in Ibadan, marking the realization of a vision 20 years in the making.
GFN covers a range of film crew professionals, including:
Producers
Directors of Photography and Assistant D.O.P.s
Movie Directors
Continuity Managers
Makeup Artists
Set/Props Designers and Managers
Costume Designers and Managers
Sound Managers
Lighting Managers
Screenplay Writers
Music Composers
Movie Editors
The primary objectives of GFN include:
1. Serving as a professional body for evangelical filmmakers.
2. Providing a platform for professional development, collaboration, and representation in the filmmaking industry.
3. Offering technical training, seminars, and workshops.
4. Creating ministry opportunities within Nigeria and internationally.
5. Maintaining high standards and discipline in gospel film production.
6. Connecting with international faith-based production organizations.
7. Fostering collaboration with other gospel filmmakers globally.
8. Raising God-fearing, heavenly-minded filmmakers in other countries.
Bamiloye revealed that GFN has established an international presence, including the launch of GFN-UK, which held its first conference in London earlier in November. GFN-UK is set for official inauguration in early 2025, as GFN invites gospel filmmaking professionals worldwide to join this mission.
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