Zambia’s creative industry has been bringing laurels to the country on the international scene. Recently three promising talents from Zambia won at the Young Achievers Africa Awards (YAAA) held in Rwanda recently.
Celebrated Film maker Kaoma Mwewa also known as HarleyLee emerged won the title of the best Young Achiever Movie Director of the Year. Actress Zodwa Khumalo won the best Actress Award and Brian Bwembya, famously called B Flow, also won an award for his advocacy works.
B Flow won the the best Young Achievers Youth Advocate award.
President of the National Association of Media Arts (NAMA), Morgan Mbulo congratulated the winners. He noted that the awards are proof of the fact that the Zambian film industry is on the right track
Mbulo noted that while the Zambian film industry is still growing, but these achievements by Lee, and Zodwa prove that we are moving in the right direction. Winning awards beyond our borders speaks volumes about the talent and potential we have.
Mbulo who noted that the winning of the international awards speaks volumes about Zambia’s talent as well as its potential pronounced the associations planned reforms such as the establishment of platforms for local talent to be able to have access to funding, training plus content distribution networks.
He added that filmmakers are making the nation proud by telling their stories. Zambia is living a mark on the international stage with their achievements.
Furthermore, Mwewa who won best director award, also highlighted the need for policy reforms as well as support from all stakeholders if the film sector is to advance.
He said tht many of the creatives are currently only doing these things for the passion of it. However, the recognition of their craft inspires them to do better.
He asked the government, private sector and other stakeholders to invest in the Zambian film industry. He said that the industry also contributes to the country’s GDP and creates employment.
Meanwhile, Brian Bwembya dedicated his award to young people of Zambia. He says they are the reason he continues to use his voice and platform to advocate for their welfare.
“The significance of this award to me is that it motivates me to continue pushing the agenda of youth leadership at all levels, from corporate governance to civic leadership, and national politics “he said.
He said the voice of the youth must be heard by the people in the leadership roles. He noted that because no society can thrive or develop without opinion, participation and drive of the youngsters
YAAA awards was established to recognise and celebrate talent across the African continent.