A renowned film producer, writer, and cultural advocate, Clarice Ford Kula, is spearheading efforts to uplift Liberia’s artistic and creative industries.
Splitting her time between Liberia and the United States, Dr. Kula has made it her mission to nurture and promote emerging Liberian talents in film, dance, drama, and theater.
“My goal is to uplift the artistic community here in Liberia,” Dr. Kula said, highlighting the importance of storytelling in preserving culture and promoting Liberia’s history on the global stage.
“When you make a film, it’s not just about entertainment; it’s about telling your story and showing your world to others. That’s how we sell tourism and inspire pride in our heritage.”
Her vision took center stage at the recent launch of “Behind the Scenes,” a new radio show on Hott FM in Monrovia.
The program aims to provide a dedicated platform for discussions on the Liberian film industry, its challenges, and provides potential solutions, while also encouraging more Liberians to support and watch local films.
Dr. Kula believes that film can play a significant role in boosting Liberia’s tourism sector, a billion-dollar global industry.
“Through film, we can showcase Liberia’s stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and rich cultural identity to the world,” she noted.
Her commitment to nurturing young talents was evident in the Bicentennial Play on Providence Island, where she saw firsthand the raw potential of Liberian youth.
“Despite having just one rehearsal, their performance was outstanding. It proved that talent is here, it just needs to be harnessed.”
Dr. Kula’s efforts go beyond training actors; she is also committed to connecting them with international opportunities.
In her acclaimed film, Providence, she brought together renowned actors like Eddie Watson, Juliet Ibrahim, and Van Vicker, giving local actors a chance to work alongside industry veterans.
Her determination to film in Liberia despite financial challenges paid off.
Liberian actress Korto Davis, who starred in Providence, was later cast in an international film after catching the attention of an American editor.
She has since become one of Liberia’s biggest stars, inspiring a new generation of talent.
To further elevate Liberian filmmakers, Dr. Kula co-founded the Johnny Home Film Festival and Liberia Film Awards, an annual event celebrating the best of Liberian cinema.
“We started this festival four years ago to showcase the incredible work of Liberian filmmakers, many of whom are not formally trained but have immense passion and drive,” she said.
The festival has drawn prominent Nollywood and Hollywood figures, including Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), Desmond Elliott, and Roger Bobb, a producer for Tyler Perry.
Their involvement in master classes and mentoring sessions has provided Liberian filmmakers with invaluable industry insights and exposure.
Dr. Kula’s passion for the arts aligns with a broader mission to make the creative industry a viable career path for Liberians.
Looking ahead, Dr. Kula remains optimistic about Liberia’s creative potential. “We have so much talent here. If we can provide the right tools and platforms, there is no limit to what Liberian filmmakers, dancers, and dramatists can achieve,” she said.
The General Manager of DSTV Local Content Creation, Mary Williams, emphasized the importance of having a platform like Behind the Scenes to highlight industry challenges and solutions.
“This industry is no longer just a hobby—it’s a career,” Williams stated. “When people start making money from films, they no longer have to rely on politics or government jobs. We need to show that this is a profitable and sustainable industry.”
Through her relentless efforts, Dr. Clarice Ford Kula is not just championing Liberia’s film industry, she is redefining it and paving the way for global recognition of Liberian talents.
