Vincentian Filmmaker Akley Olton Named Facilitator for CARIFESTA XV “Roots to Reels” Film & Video Workshop

Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines — August 16, 2025

CARIFESTA XV announce that Vincentian filmmaker, cultural advocate, and creative producer Akley Olton will helm the “Roots to Reels: Caribbean Documentary Storytelling” Film & Video Workshop, scheduled for August 25–29, 2025 in Barbados.

About the Facilitator

Olton has distinguished himself in Caribbean cinema through films like Madulu, The Seaman, which made history as the first Vincentian film available on the Criterion Channel. His storytelling transcends borders by championing cultural preservation, especially through his work with UNESCO’s Transcultura Programme, earning him the Prince Claus Seed Award.

He is a recurring tutor for Cine desde Nuestros Pueblos in Honduras, empowering Garifuna, Lenca, and Miskito youth to use film as a means of resistance and cultural reclamation. “Cinema is more than a lens—it’s a mirror, a shield, and a powerful resistance,” Olton asserts.

Meet the Full Lineup

Joining Akley Olton to lead related sessions across CARIFESTA XV’s film programme are acclaimed filmmakers and cultural mentors:

• Claire Ince

• Mark Walton

• Rivelino Simmons

• Akinrinmola Omotoso(Instagram)

These leaders together bring a wealth of expertise in Caribbean narrative, documentary filmmaking, and storytelling.

Workshop Snapshot: Roots to Reels

This immersive bootcamp is designed for novice filmmakers aged 16 and older.

Over five days, participants will:

• Develop story ideas rooted in Caribbean heritage.

• Learn mobile cinematography using smartphones.

• Master mobile editing software (free tools included).

• Produce and refine a 2–3 minute documentary that captures CARIFESTA XV’s authenticity through their lens.

  
  

How to Register

CARIFESTA XV attendees can register online for the film workshops, including “Roots to Reels,” by filling out the relevant registration form under the Film & Video Workshops section on the official registration page.(CARIFESTA XV)

About Akley Olton

Akley Olton is a celebrated Vincentian filmmaker, creative producer, and cultural worker. His groundbreaking work includes Madulu, The Seaman, participation in UNESCO’s Transcultura initiative, and impactful cultural workshops across the region. He leads Island Rebel Media and continues to elevate Caribbean voices through visual storytelling.

About CARIFESTA XV

The Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) is the region’s most expansive cultural celebration. CARIFESTA XV, hosted in Barbados from August 22–31, 2025, features performances, exhibitions, film sessions, and creative workshops designed to elevate Caribbean talent on a global stage.