Media I.M. Incorporated, the London-based content distribution company that specialises in premium animation and family entertainment, has acquired the worldwide distribution rights to new 3D animated series Zola and Friends, co-produced by New Delhi-based Wordsword Creations and Ontario-based Double Dot Studios.
The 26 x 11 mins series, written by Nigerian screenwriter Omotunde Akiode and directed by Ghanian animation director and Emmy jury member Francis Y Brown, is set in Tanzania’s Serengeti nature reserve.
Targeted at three – to six -year-olds, the action centres on a loveable white rhino called Zola, who lives in a treehouse with her chums Mosi the monkey, Kito the lizard and Shani the snake. Zola’s crew roam the Serengeti, having fun with the other animals they meet down by the river, up in the hills and out on the open plains of their enchanting African home. In between adventures, the friends amuse themselves playing music on their African instruments, while Zola sets the rhythm with her signature Zola Bounce (with bells) dance move.
Maria Ufland, co-founder of Media I.M with Irina Nazarenko, said: “There are so many things about Zola and Friends that immediately appealed to us. Zola is not only super cute, but she also represents the last of the northern white rhinos, which are now functionally extinct. On top of that, it’s set in a magical world, infused with wonderful African animals and music, and the storylines carry strong, positive messages. Every animal has its own strengths and limitations — for example, one of Zola’s monkey friends can’t climb trees — showing that, while we all have flaws, any obstacle can be overcome with a little help from your friends.”
Irina Nazarenko added: “Zola and Friends is a beautifully produced entertainment series that succeeds in feeling both authentically African and globally relevant. The tone and style are brilliantly
judged and perfectly age-appropriate, making it easy for children to learn important life lesson about teamwork and belonging alongside the animal characters. But although each episode delivers a moral message, Zola and Friends is first and foremost fun, relatable and engaging. We believe it has strong global appeal and the potential to travel well internationally.”
Capt. Manresh Malhotra, co-founder WordSword Creations: “Zola & Friends embodies the vibrant spirit of African storytelling, celebrating the continent’s rich heritage and diversity. We’re thrilled to collaborate with DoubleDot Studios, our co-producer, and honored to have Media I.M. as our distribution partner. Together, we’re bringing this charming series to kids worldwide, teaching valuable lessons on friendship, teamwork, and self-acceptance. With its stunning animation, amazing music, and endearing characters, Zola & Friends is set to delight young viewers globally and make a lasting impression on children’s entertainment.”
Catherine John, co-founder WordSword Creations: “What’s truly special about Zola & Friends is that our beloved character, “Zola”, draws inspiration from the last female northern white rhinos, a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation and appreciation for these magnificent creatures. We’re deeply moved by this connection and excited to share Zola’s adventures with audiences everywhere.”
Mohammad Banaiee, Founder & CEO Double Dot Studios: “Authentic, unique, fun and nature oriented” these were the words that came to my mind first time Catherine introduced “Zola and Friends” to me. Since that day forward, these amazing characters have been a big part of our lives, and now we are sharing it with the world, with the hope it can give joy and happiness to everyone watching it.”
Presently available in English and conceived as an ongoing production, Zola and Friends is the second property that Media I.M. has acquired in the last year. In the run-up to MIPCOM 2024, it licensed the pre-school YouTube series Tatty and Misifu (57×5 mins), which chronicles the adventures of a little witch and her faithful friend Misifu the kitten. Under the deal, Media I.M. handles the global sales of all four seasons of the 2D animated series to international linear and digital platforms, excluding YouTube, which is managed directly by the producer, Barcelona-based Toy Town Kids.
Media I.M.’s business model was pioneered by its hit pre-school property Sunny Bunnies, which has been managed by the distributor for almost 10 years. Launched in 2015 on YouTube, Sunny Bunnies is now airing in more than 190 countries.
