The afternoon sun rested gently over Lungujja as creative energy filled the offices of Reach A Hand Uganda. On February 15, 2026, filmmakers, mentors, industry veterans, and dreamers gathered with one shared purpose. Together, they unveiled the iKON Young Filmmakers Fellowship 2026, a program that continues to shape the future of Ugandan storytelling.
At the heart of the moment stood a powerful collaboration between iKON Awards and Reach A Hand Uganda. For years, both institutions have championed young creatives. However, this year felt different. This year carried the weight of momentum, growth, and rising global ambition.
The 2026 cohort stepped forward with courage and hope. Mutya Manisuli Arafah, Sean Kalinaki, Kaitana Guma Davis, Fadhil Mahad, Ashiraf Kanunu, Ray Edward Muhumuza, Sanyu Elizabeth, Elly E. Debuni, Nuwagaba Patience, and Nantambi Consolanta now begin an eight-month journey of rigorous masterclasses. They will sharpen their skills in directing, editing, screenwriting, production, and acting. More importantly, they will discover their voices.
As the unveiling continued, Charles Owekmeno, Board Chairperson of Reach A Hand Uganda, set the tone. He did not simply congratulate the fellows. Instead, he challenged them. He reminded everyone that film shapes behavior, mindset, and economic opportunity. Above all, he urged them to tell African stories for African audiences and emphasized unity as the gateway to international success.
iKON Young Filmmakers Fellowship 2026 Launched In Style
The conversation then shifted toward an often-overlooked force in Uganda’s film culture, VJing. Veteran VJ Junior, Mary Smarts Matovu, called for stronger partnerships between filmmakers and video jockeys. He spoke with clarity and conviction. VJs understand the audience because they engage viewers daily. Consequently, filmmakers who involve them early in production gain invaluable insight.
He also pointed to the digital shift. Today, content moves faster than ever. Social media platforms amplify stories within seconds. For that reason, he encouraged the fellows to treat digital platforms as creative allies, not afterthoughts.
Throughout the event, dialogue flowed freely. Industry stakeholders explored how filmmakers can build sustainable careers. They discussed festivals, strategic screenings, networking, and marketing. In addition, they highlighted monetisation pathways that empower creatives to thrive, not just survive.
The fellowship’s record speaks with confidence. Over the past three years, the program has produced 30 short films. Many have earned regional and international recognition. In 2024, Birungu Rose won Best Viewer’s Choice and secured a study opportunity in Nigeria. In 2023, Masadde Issa’s Mama Wange gained 15 nominations and recognition across Uganda, Nigeria, India, and South Africa. These victories do not happen by accident. They grow from mentorship, discipline, and relentless storytelling.
Humphrey Nabimanya, CEO of iKON Awards, reaffirmed the program’s commitment to nurturing globally competitive storytellers. His message echoed a clear truth. Uganda does not lack talent. Uganda needs structure, collaboration, and bold vision.
Former fellow Nansubuga Roda Segane offered perhaps the most intimate reflection of the day. She described the fellowship as transformative encouraging learning and unlearning. She spoke about collaboration. Most importantly, she urged the new cohort to tell stories they truly understand. Authenticity, she reminded them, carries more power than imitation.
As the event drew to a close, anticipation replaced ceremony. The unveiling did more than introduce ten names. It ignited possibility. It reminded everyone in the room that storytelling shapes culture, identity, and progress.
Now, the journey begins. The iKON Young Filmmakers Fellowship 2026 does not simply train filmmakers. It builds architects of imagination. It equips young creatives with tools, mentorship, and confidence. And as these fellows prepare their scripts and frame their shots, one truth stands firm: Uganda’s stories will not wait. They will rise, travel, and compete on the world stage.
