YouTube unveils a slate of children’s originals
Super Sema has an African-futuristic setting
Original Article Posted on C21 Media
YouTube has revealed a slate of animated series as part of its $100m commitment to providing original content to children and families.
The Google-owned platform pledged to make millions of children’s original content available to young audiences between 2019 and 2022.
Subsequently, “content goals” were developed in collaboration with experts in the fields of child safety, child development and digital literacy, with a focus on producing shows that inspire children to learn and pursue their passions.
Among the properties that will be launched on YouTube is Super Sema, an animated series about a young superhero girl and her world-changing adventures. It was created by Kukua, based in the United Kingdom and Kenya, and produced by a female-led team.
Set in an African-futuristic world, it was written by Claudia Lloyd (Charlie & Lola, Mr Bean, Tinga Tinga Tales) and directed by Lynne Southerland, Disney’s first female African-American director (Mulan II).
The Workout Badges, meanwhile, sees the popular UK fitness coach Joe Wicks encouraging young audiences to join him in a variety of exercise routines, featuring characters from BBC Studios’ Hey Duggee in animated segments.
Also in production and due to be launched later this year are The Eggventurers, produced by GoldieBlox; The Guava Juice Show, produced by Studio71 and Mainframe Studios; Kid Correspondent, produced by SoulPancake; Lottie Dottie Mini, produced by Bromelia Productions; Millie & Lou, produced by Blue Zoo Animation Studio; Supa Strikas: Rookie Season, produced by Moonbug Entertainment; and BookTube Jr.
Meanwhile, Jam Van, of the Believe Entertainment Group and composer and producer Bill Sherman, and Corpse Talk, produced by Tiger Aspect, are among the 25 development projects.
“Coming from an incredible caliber of creators, our new showbook celebrates the diversity of children and empowers them to pursue their dreams and care for each other and the world around them,” said Nadine Zylstra, Head of Family, Learning and Impact at YouTube Originals.
“Each of these projects is in lockstep with the tone of the brand YouTube Originals Kids & Family. Essentially, shows that are entertaining, compelling, embrace big ideas, have strong takeaways, and ultimately bring YouTube’s positive spirit to life for our youngest audience.”
