The WIFI Shorts Program for 2011 “OUT OF AFRICA: A NIGHT TO CELEBRATE SHORT FILMS BY KENYAN FILMMAKERS” has been honored by the City of Los Angeles. WIFI Shorts, coordinated by the WIF International Committee celebrated its 5th year in 2011. Prior programs have focused on Haitian, Indigenous People of the Americas, Palestinian/Israeli and Korean cultures.
The city recognized the program's cultural contributions and its celebration of unique perspectives from around the world. The event was produced by Wanjiru Mary Njendu with associate producers, Emily Butali, Aba Ngissah, Florence Regina, Clora Ferguson, Gloria Huwiler, Adrienne Camille and Shirley Moirin. The WIFI Committee Co-Chairs are Ruby Lopez & Arati Misro. Ghen Laraya Long is the WIF Board of Directors Advisor and Tobie Loomis is the Advisory Chair.
On March 5, 2011, three nights prior to the official global celebration of women via International Women’s Day, Kenyans, Americans and other Africans gathered at Universal Studios Stage 27 in Los Angeles to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Kenyan Women In Film.
Through a diverse program of short films, the series celebrated and supported the creative talents of Kenyan filmmakers. The films selected, both narrative 
and documentary, provided views into the psyche of these communities and deepened our understanding of Kenyan life, land, history politics and culture.
In addtion to the screening we also showcased the work of Kenyan artist and performers, a keynote address from award winning author Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o and a sampling of Kenyan cuisine.
Kenyan actors, Edi Gathegi (Twilight and X-Men: First Class) and Ida Onyango ("Days of Our Lives" and Tears of the Sun) co-hosted the event. For more details CLICK HERE.
We thank the City of Los Angeles; the LA City Department of Cultural Affairs; LA City Council Member, Eric Garcetti; and LA City Council Member, Tom LaBonge for their support.
