INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Writers, filmmakers and aspiring storytellers will have a chance to connect, learn and sharpen their creative skills Saturday at the Indy Africa Book and Film Festival.

The free festival runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Center for Black Literature and Culture inside Central Library, 40 E. Saint Clair St. in downtown Indianapolis.

The event aims to connect Indiana creatives with storytellers from around the world, with a special focus on the African diaspora while welcoming participants from all backgrounds.

What to expect

The daylong festival will feature workshops, panels and networking opportunities for creatives at various stages of their careers.

Highlights include:

• Keynote speakers offering insights into the creative industries
• A filmmaking panel featuring working professionals
• A hands-on filmmaking workshop for beginners and experienced creators
• A Young Griot’s children’s writing workshop
• A memoir writing workshop led by local author Delores Lewis Thornton
• Community tables featuring Indiana organizations focused on books and film
• Networking opportunities for writers, filmmakers and other creatives

Organizers say the festival is designed to build connections across cultures and creative mediums while encouraging people to see themselves as storytellers.

The event is free and open to the public, and no registration is required.

The Center for Black Literature and Culture is located inside Central Library. Free parking is available at nearby library lots.

For more information, visit the Indianapolis Public Library events page or follow @cblc.indylibrary on Instagram.