Johny Terry Volcere, a Seychellois filmmaker and videographer, has carved a unique path from his early passion for fine arts to becoming a prominent storyteller through film. Deeply connected to his cultural roots, Johnny’s work captures the essence of Seychelles, blending creativity with authenticity. His journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, reflects his relentless pursuit of excellence and his desire to tell stories that resonate with audiences locally and internationally.
Johnny Terry Volcere’s journey into visual storytelling began long before he held a camera. As a young boy in Seychelles, his passion for the arts was evident early on. “In school, my favourite subject was always art. While others might focus on English or maths, art, sports, painting, and music truly captured my interest,” Johnny recalls. Despite the pressure to conform to traditional subjects, his heart belonged to creative expression.
Growing up in a family with artistic inclinations, Johnny was inspired by his father, a craftsman. This artistic lineage ignited a desire in him to pursue a career in fine arts. “My dad was a craftsman, designing fish and creating beautiful works with his hands,” he says. “I always wanted to be an artist, to create.” Despite his clear ambition, the prevailing belief in his community was that becoming a professional artist was difficult, and Johnny was encouraged to become a teacher instead.
Discovering a Passion for Film
Although becoming a fine artist seemed challenging, Johnny’s creative spirit refused to be stifled. During his post-secondary education, a conversation with a friend who worked at the Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) sparked a new interest in filmmaking. “He would tell me how fun it was, how he travelled with the president and filmed important meetings. That’s when I started to think, maybe this could be my path,” Johnny reflects.
At 17, Johnny’s passion shifted from painting on canvas to capturing life through the lens of a camera. After completing his A-Levels in art, he joined SBC as part of their first production training group. Over eight years, he honed his skills, initially as a technical operator, mastering camera work, lighting, and sound. “I worked on news pieces and productions and eventually got the chance to train as a producer and director,” he explains.
Becoming a Filmmaker
Johnny’s early experiences behind the camera, capturing news and production pieces, laid the foundation for his transition into filmmaking. He took on music video production as a personal challenge, training himself through tutorials and experimenting with his camera. His first foray into producing music videos caught the attention of SBC, who recognised his talent and allowed him to direct a monthly music show called Vibes. This marked the beginning of his journey as a producer-director.
His ability to connect with the Creole culture of Seychelles profoundly influenced his storytelling. One of his standout projects was a music video for the legendary Seychellois artist Patrick Victor. “The song was about the Moutya, a traditional dance that had been banned. The video showed people bringing out their drums from hiding and dancing together. It was such a powerful story, rooted in our culture,” Johnny shares. His profound connection with his heritage continues to be a driving force in his work.
Film Production: Challenges and Triumphs
Every filmmaker faces challenges, and for Johnny, one of his most complex projects was a music video shoot in Dubai. “The desert heat was unbearable. The camera overheated before I even pressed record,” he recalls. Johny’s quick thinking and problem-solving skills saved the day despite the setbacks. He downgraded the video settings, used a drone to capture crucial footage, and kept the shoot on track, even under the most challenging conditions.
For Johnny, these challenges are not just obstacles but opportunities for growth. “Every project teaches you something new. Whether it’s about managing a tight budget, navigating foreign locations, or pushing through extreme weather, these experiences shape you as a filmmaker,” he reflects.
Connecting with Culture Through Film
Johnny’s love for storytelling is deeply connected to his cultural roots. His collaboration with Patrick Victor on the UNESCO-recognised Viva Moutya project is one of his most cherished experiences. The project, which aimed to preserve and celebrate traditional Seychellois music and dance, allowed him to showcase the rich cultural heritage of his homeland. “Being a part of such an important project, documenting every step from the initial meetings to the final performances, was a privilege,” he says. “It’s not just about making films; it’s about preserving our history, our culture.”
Inspirations and Influences
Like many filmmakers, Johnny draws inspiration from a variety of sources. Internationally, he admires the work of Steven Spielberg. “Spielberg’s background in camera work and his mastery of lighting and composition resonates with me. He breaks the rules in such an inspiring way,” Johny explains. Locally, he finds inspiration in filmmakers like Vincent Joseph, who played a pivotal role in shaping his technical skills during his early years at SBC.
Johnny’s approach to filmmaking is unique. He seeks stories that resonate deeply with him, focusing on natural, tangible connections. “When I choose a story, it has to be something that I connect with, something real,” he explains. His emphasis on realism and cultural authenticity sets him apart from other filmmakers, and his work reflects his deep respect for the traditions and stories of Seychelles.
Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations
With a wealth of experience and a growing portfolio, Johnny is ready to take on new challenges. His upcoming projects include a personal film that he plans to showcase in October 2025, which he describes as “something close to my heart.” He’s also working on several other scripts, projects that have been developing for years, waiting for the right moment to come to life.
Despite his success, Johnny remains grounded and always strives for improvement. “I’m never delighted with my work. I always think there’s something I could have done better,” he admits. This drive for excellence pushes him forward, and he constantly evolves as a filmmaker and storyteller.
Final Thoughts: A Filmmaker with a Vision
Johnny Terry Volcere is not just a filmmaker but a cultural ambassador for Seychelles. He uses his talents to tell stories that resonate with local and international audiences. His work is a testament to the power of storytelling, rooted in authenticity, culture, and creativity. As he continues to push the boundaries of his craft, one thing is sure: Johnny’s journey is far from over, and the best is yet to come.
He said, “The biggest film is the one I haven’t made yet.” This belief in his craft’s endless possibilities reflects his passion for filmmaking and his dedication to creating meaningful, impactful stories that connect with audiences worldwide.