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Activities for the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards commenced with Young Filmmakers Day, bringing together emerging creatives, industry professionals, and key stakeholders in Lagos for a day of mentorship, learning, and conversations on the future of African storytelling.
The AMVCA Young Filmmakers Day is a masterclass designed to equip emerging filmmakers with practical skills, industry insights, and creative confidence to navigate the evolving film and television landscape, with emphasis on storytelling, career development, technology, and opportunities within the creative economy. This year’s edition is themed “Audacious Storytelling and Attracting the Right Opportunities.”
The AMVCA is committed to nurturing emerging talent, Atinuke Babatunde, Executive Head of Content and Channels: West Africa, MultiChoice, a Canal+ company noted. Further noting that investment in young filmmakers remains central to the platform’s long-term vision for African cinema.
In her keynote address, Babatunde highlighted the platform’s continued investment in developing young filmmakers as part of efforts to strengthen Africa’s film industry.
A major highlight of the day was a masterclass by Nollywood actress and filmmaker Uche Jombo, who spoke on consistency, reinvention, and professionalism.
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“Talent alone is not enough, your work ethic and how you present yourself will take you even further,” she said, urging actors to continuously develop their craft and maintain discipline”.
MultiChoice Talent Factory graduate Orire Nwani followed with a session on fearless storytelling, encouraging creatives to take initiative and embrace boldness. He emphasised that opportunities often emerge when filmmakers consistently put their work out and surround themselves with the right creative community.
The conversation expanded to the role of technology during a panel session by Johnnie Walker, featuring Amarachukwu Onoh, Abiodun Odu, and Stan Nze. The discussion explored the impact of artificial intelligence in filmmaking, with panelists stressing that while AI can enhance creativity, a strong foundation in storytelling and filmmaking remains essential.
MTN, a sponsor of this year’s edition, also hosted a segment featuring a short film presentation and recognition of emerging creatives, with Digital Marketing Manager Ololade Odunsanya announcing the top five talents from MultiChoice Talent Factory. The winners include Precious Asuai (₦500,000), Fitz Williams Ochei (₦650,000), Jennifer Ugwueze (₦1 million), Anuymika Ayomide (₦1 million), and Alexander Oshiame, who emerged as the overall winner, receiving ₦1.5 million.
The event emphasised the importance of preparation, financial literacy, and clarity of purpose for filmmakers seeking growth and investment.
Young Filmmakers’ Day is one of several industry events ahead of the AMVCA 2026 finale, alongside Cultural Night (Friday, May 8) and the AMVCA Awards Night (Saturday, May 9), which will air live across Africa on all Africa Magic channels on DStv and GOtv from 4:00 PM WAT (Red Carpet) and 7:00 PM WAT (Main Show).
Through its mix of mentorship, industry insights, and talent recognition, Young Filmmakers Day reinforced its role as a key platform for equipping the next generation of African storytellers with the tools and confidence to thrive.
