Shalom House Gardens turned into a kaleidoscope of African creativity as film, food, fashion, and music collided in an explosion of culture at the 7th edition of Shorts, Shorts & Shots (SSS).
Hosted by Docubox – East African Documentary Film Fund (EADFF) in partnership with the NBO Film Festival, and supported by Africalia Belgium and DGD, this year’s edition carried the powerful theme ‘Through Our Eyes: #WeAreAllAfricans.’ It was more than just a night out, it was a celebration of what connects us across borders, languages, and generations.
“Shorts, Shorts & Shots was borne out of the need to grow new audiences for Kenyan and African films,” said Peter Mudamba, General Manager at Docubox. “We wanted to create a space where film could be experienced differently — more personally, and more joyfully.”
The event offered a full sensory experience: short films from across Africa and the diaspora, Afro-fashion pop-ups, the irresistible scent of street food like pilau and uji, African-inspired cocktails and mocktails, and even a Hair & Heritage installation celebrating the art and identity of African hair.
“Through Our Eyes is more than a film showcase; it’s a mirror of who we are,” said Sheba Hirst, Festival Director of the Nairobi Film Festival.
“At a time when African cinema is claiming its global space, this collaboration celebrates the everyday brilliance of African life; from the food we love to the stories that remind us of our shared humanity.”
In true Docubox style, the festival also kept its eye on the future. The event opened with a Student Masterclass led by Koome Mwirebua, titled ‘The Future of Storytelling: AI & VFX in Film’. The session explored how technology is revolutionising storytelling across the continent.
“Our support for impactful storytelling must go hand in hand with audience development,” Mudamba added. “Every filmmaker dreams of their work being seen and appreciated, and SSS answers that dream.”
The Filmmakers Lounge became the soul of the event, a cozy spot where directors and audiences mingled freely, bridging the gap between creators and fans.
As night fell, the garden transformed into Nairobi’s liveliest outdoor cinema. The air buzzed with energy as screenings gave way to live Afro-house and Afrobeats DJ sets, the scent of sizzling street food mingling with laughter and the festival’s playful call: “Watch Shorts. Wear Shorts. Take Shots.” [Manuel Ntoyai]