EP 96: Conscious Storytelling and Cultural Insight with Director Diji Aderogba

In this episode of Visual Intonation, we sit down with Diji Aderogba, a pioneering Nigerian filmmaker known for his powerful, thought-provoking narratives. Since his filmmaking journey began in 2016, after graduating from the Mainframe Film and Media Institute, Diji has been dedicated to bringing social consciousness to the big screen. Under the mentorship of African cinema legend Tunde Kelani, Diji learned that film is more than just entertainment—it’s a mirror reflecting society’s struggles and strengths. His breakout documentary 'Hidden Euphoria', which was nominated for an AMVCA award in 2020, captures the often-unseen resilience of Nigeria’s Makoko community. This film marked the beginning of Diji’s mission to tell the stories that matter.

Diji’s storytelling prowess continued to blossom in 2021 with the release of 'About a Boy', his debut feature film that won the Audience Choice Award at Nollywood Week in Paris. In this psychological thriller, Diji explores complex human emotions and mental health—a theme that resonates deeply with audiences who seek connection and understanding through cinema. For Diji, 'About a Boy' is a journey into the minds of people who battle inner turmoil, and his hope is that viewers come away feeling seen and perhaps even inspired to seek healing. He shares with us the challenges and triumphs of bringing this story to life, alongside his passion for using film as a voice for the voiceless.

Beyond film, Diji has embraced social media to amplify his work and connect with his audience. He’s not only a storyteller but also a brand influencer, blending his skills in street photography and digital marketing. His collaboration with Infinix, a popular smartphone brand, started from a simple tweet expressing his interest in working with a mobile phone company. A few retweets later, Diji had his partnership with Infinix, showcasing his keen eye for visual art in a way that bridges film and digital media. We delve into how he uses his platform to not just promote his work but also to inspire other young creatives who may be looking for unconventional ways to share their art.

In our conversation, Diji reflects on the importance of his roots in Abeokuta, his artistic influences from childhood, and the role of culture in his work. His recent web series, *When Are We Getting Married?*, produced by #Filmtrybe, delves into modern relationships, sparking debates around marriage, partnership, and compromise. Diji shares the excitement of collaborating with writer Ife Olujuyigbe, whose script brings relatable, raw conversations to life on screen. Together, they’ve created a show that encourages viewers to question their own beliefs and societal norms. Join us as we explore Diji’s journey, his vision, and the power of conscious filmmaking in today’s world.


Diji Aderogba's Website : https://dijiderogba.wixsite.com/dijiaderogba 

Diji Aderogba's Linkedin :