In a celebration of youthful creativity and storytelling, Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) and the Ikon Awards have officially unveiled the 2024/2025 Cohort of the Ikon Young Filmmakers Fellowship. The program, now in its third edition, brings together 10 budding filmmakers selected for their passion and potential to drive social change through the art of cinema.
The Fellows – Mukama David, Nansubuga Rhoda, Treno Lee, Layoo Ketty, Nankya Mariam Shamsa, Nakaibale Denise Julian, Ssuubi Abdurahman, Nkabazzi Lukia, Otengo Solomon, and Ligose Angela – emerged from a highly competitive pool of applicants across Uganda. Over the coming months, they will undergo intensive professional training in filmmaking, empowering them to produce impactful short films addressing pressing societal issues, including sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) among young people.
Each Fellow will receive a $500 grant to produce a 5-10 minute short film, supported by masterclasses and one-on-one mentorship. Esteemed professionals like Ramsey Nouah, Usama Mukwaya, Eleanor Nabwiso, and others have previously led these sessions, imparting invaluable skills to young filmmakers.
A Platform for Advocacy and Transformation
Since its inception, the Ikon Young Filmmakers Fellowship has produced 18 short films that spotlight youth challenges and inspire social change. Notable successes include Doreen Mirembe’s Mama Wange, a poignant short that is now being adapted into a feature film. The production has screened internationally, earning acclaim in Nigeria, France, and beyond.
Humphrey Nabimanya, Founder of RAHU and the Ikon Awards, underscored the transformative power of film during the unveiling. “Film is not just a medium; it is a powerful catalyst for social change. Your stories have the potential to challenge perceptions, ignite conversations, and inspire action,” he said, urging Fellows to draw on Uganda’s unique narratives to amplify marginalized voices and shed light on critical issues.
For Ssuubi Abdurahman, one of this year’s Fellows, the Fellowship is a stepping stone to making a difference. “Film is a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and generations. It evokes emotions and sparks empathy,” he shared, expressing his excitement about using the medium to inspire and connect.
The program will culminate in February with a high-profile launch and short film exhibition, showcasing the Fellows’ productions to policymakers, development partners, and the public. With platforms like TikTok and YouTube dominating the digital landscape, the films promise to resonate widely, turning stories into agents of transformation and sparking meaningful conversations.
As Uganda continues to emerge as a hub for creative talent, the Ikon Young Filmmakers Fellowship serves as a testament to the power of film in shaping minds, empowering communities, and driving progress.
