Women in Film Symposium Launched: A Historic Step Forward in Uganda

Written by Daniel Massamba Meboya, Strategic Communication Expert, at Mediavision Academy

On October 26, 2024, in Kampala city, Women in Film Symposium Uganda was launched by  Ms. Julianne R. Mweheire, Director Economic Regulation, Content & Consumer Affairs at UCC, at a prestigious occasion held at Protea Hotel Naguru. It was spearheaded by Dr. Jesca Ahimbisibwe, Executive Director and Founder of Women in Film Organization. This gathering brought together an impressive collection of icons from the Ugandan film industry, both male and female, all united by a shared vision: of paving the way for women to step onto the same stage as their male counterparts and make history in the film sector.

The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as guests shared insights, experiences, and inspiration, fostering a supportive network aimed at empowering women filmmakers and creators.

Among the notable guests was Robert Nkambo, Director of Mediavision Academy, a respected institution dedicated to training youth in film, video and photography. Nkambo has been a passionate advocate for gender inclusion in the arts, consistently urging young girls to explore photography and film as viable career paths. His commitment to empowering women aligns with the sentiments expressed by the chief guest Ms. Julianne Mweheire.

In a collaborative effort to amplify this impact, Women in Film Organization and UCC recently completed a youth-focused training initiative in Gulu, a city located in northern Uganda. This training aimed at fostering the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility within the industry.

As the event unfolded, the focus on empowering youth resonated deeply. Mediavision Academy, with its decade-long experience, is dedicated to nurturing the talents of young individuals, emphasizing their essential role in narrating Uganda’s stories and contributing to local content creation. Robert Nkambo and his staff members expressed their vested interest in elevating the voices of young filmmakers and ensuring their stories reach broader audiences.

During a panel discussion, Mr. Humphrey Nabimanya, the visionary leader of SAUTI MEDIA, appealed for increased local cinema production and expanded distribution channels for Ugandan films. His passionate call to action underscored the critical need for sustainable infrastructures that support local artists and storytellers.

“Our mission is clear,” lamented Dr. Jesca in her emotional speech.  We inted to uplift and advance female creatives in Ugandan cinema through tailored training, mentorship, and a strong support network.  “Together, we can overome any obstacle,”  she said as she highlighted the critical need for unity in addressing today’s pressing issues.  By sharing stories of triumph and adversity traced as far as 8 years ago when Cinema Ug was founded, Jesca emphasized “Resilience and collective endeavors,” inspiring those present to commit to collaboration and mutual support in pursuit of common objectives.

The second edition of “Empowering Women in Film” was much more than just an event; it was a movement—a collective stride toward a future where women in Uganda are recognized as leaders, visionaries, and equal contributors to the film industry. As they continue to break barriers and challenge stereotypes, these women, alongside their male counterparts, are undoubtedly carving out a legacy that will inspire future generations of filmmakers in Uganda and beyond.