When we first found the place that is now
@videobet , it was an abandoned cinema that had been tied up a court dispute for over half a decade. There was no working light, no sound system, no projector, the ceiling had caved, and the chairs were dusty and broken. But we knew at once it was the perfect place to stage the dream we had for over two years — to open the first independent cinema and film center in Addis Ababa. The definitive home to Ethiopian arthouse filmmakers.
A lot of people have poured their time, sweat and passion to make Videobet into the space it is today. From architects to carpenters and electricians, to metal workers, painters and drivers, it was the result of many hours and hands— many of whom I’ve tried to document here.
But the most special thank you goes to the Videobet team who have worked day and night to turn this dream into reality. From my brother
@band_yimenu who shared this dream with me for years and who put everything he had on the line to make it happen, to the amazing
@bonny_tes who has been the real engine of Videobet since day 1, to my 🫶🏾
@tsion.haileselassie who has helped shape our visual direction, to
@chebrara who has been our most vocal supporter and later indispensable team member, to our incredible team
@mpregmafia_00 @saliyanayem @natty_nterested and our talented artist friends
@kume_b @hermi0102 @harerta_t @tigist_nigussie_m @girum_asegid @dagmawitameha … it’s been a labor of love for many. Because of them, Videobet is now a reality. Thank you to all of you! Here’s to many more years of Videobet! ❤️
