Crown or Class

"Crown or Class" delves into the deeply personal and cultural relationship between African women and their natural hair, against the backdrop of Eurocentric beauty ideals. The documentary traces how colonialism and globalization imposed foreign beauty standards, often undermining the significance of traditional African hairstyles, which historically held deep cultural and symbolic meaning. The film examines how hair, particularly for African women, is tied to identity, social status, and personal expression.

The film also uncovers the psychological and societal pressures African women face today, as many are compelled to adopt long, curly, or straight hairstyles to align with Western beauty standards. Through interviews and personal stories, "Crown or Class" explores this conflict, showcasing the internal struggle between adhering to modern media-driven ideals and maintaining one’s authentic cultural identity. The narrative reflects a silent battle that has shaped perceptions of beauty, acceptance, and worth.

Finally, the documentary highlights the resurgence of the natural hair movement, a powerful form of resistance and empowerment. African women are increasingly embracing their natural hair textures, redefining beauty standards on their own terms. By challenging outdated norms, "Crown or Class" celebrates the growing community of women reclaiming their cultural roots, symbolizing self-acceptance, liberation, and pride.

Key Crew:

• Kwaku Agyekum Sikahene (Director/Producer): With extensive experience in African television, Kwaku has a strong network within the media industry, ensuring this film will have a wide reach across the African diaspora. Co-Founder & Creative Lead of Wuku Studios in Belgium, Kwaku has worked with many African media and broadcast companies but mostly in Ghana, Kenya and South Africa.  He assumed many roles for each production due to his versatility.  He has also as a freelancer worked on several corporate videos and commercials for renowned brands like Barclays Ghana (now ABSA), Guinness Ghana, Burger King Ghana, Kempiniski Kenya and just to name a few. He edited the renowned Dining With TV Cooking series, TV3’s Ghana’s Most Beautiful Pageant amongst many and his most recent Documentary Project, Africa’s Forts & Castles is in the production stage. 
• Noah Sedode Komla(Director/Producer):. Currently serving in the British Army as a photographer, Noah attended same film school with the Director of this film and he majored in Film Editing. He worked on numerous projects within Africa but mostly in Sierra Leone & Ghana. He has worked on commercial videos for Ghana’s top brands like Coconut Grove Hotel, Frankies Restaurant, Nestle, Suncity and was on the Freedom Concert production team. His most significant work, were he worked as the Drone Pilot & Producer was the Sky Marshals Television Travel Series.
• Alex Ahenfo(Director of Photography/Camera): Also a film school mate and trusted cinematographer and friend of the Director, Alex majored in motion picture  photography is a top tier cinematographer and director of photography and he has assumed either role on countless local and international film and television projects namely; Chasing Flavour, Finding Football's Next Gen Documentary, Ghana Cocobod Project Documentary, The Story of Aflao Kente Weavers Documnetary, THE DREAM GROWS - THE OUSSENI BOUDA STORY, DREAMING IN THE PRESENT - THE SHAKUR MOHAMMED STORY , MASTER & 3 MAIDS, PARTY OFFICE and more.

Unique Selling Points

• Financial and Awareness Support: The Ghana Council of Belgium and Sankaa have pledged financial support and will raise awareness on their platforms.
• International Directorial Debut: This film marks a unique opportunity for Kwaku and the co-director to break into international markets, blending African and European perspectives on beauty and identity.
• Cultural Relevance: The film taps into a global conversation around beauty standards, natural hair movements, and the representation of African identity, making it timely and resonant.
• Established Network: Kwaku's extensive media connections in Africa offer a clear path to securing broadcasting and marketing opportunities.