Akwaaba Film Challenge 2025: A Night of Storytelling and Talent

By Victoria Kompari 

The Akwaaba Film Challenge 2025, an annual flagship initiative of the SRC of UniMAC–Institute of Film and Television (formerly NAFTI), came to a glamorous close on Friday, 29th August 2025 at the Snap Cinema, Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).

Audience at the Akwaaba Film Challenge 

This year’s edition was held under the theme “Telling Our Own Story”, a bold call to young Ghanaian filmmakers to highlight authentic narratives that reflect the culture, struggles, and aspirations of Africa.

As part of the challenge, students were grouped to simulate the teamwork and collaboration of the professional film industry. The contestant groups included Endurance STDS, Pilolo, Narrative Nexus, Chaskle 5, Forge 3, Group 5 Production, Media 2, 2HB1, and Sankofa.

Each group produced a short film that cut across diverse genres and styles, resulting in eight powerful projects. These films reflected technical skill, creativity, and passion, reaffirming UniMAC–IFT’s role as a hub for nurturing future filmmakers.

The evaluation process gave equal importance to industry expertise and public opinion. Winners were determined through a combined system of 50% jury assessment and 50% audience votes, ensuring fairness and balance.

At the climax of the awards night, five groups were honored for their outstanding work. 2HB1 emerged as the biggest winner, taking home Best Project and Best Director. Narrative Nexus was celebrated for Best Cinematography and Best Story, while Group 5 Production won Best Editor.

Winners of the Akwaaba Film Challenge 2025 proudly display their awards after an exciting night

The red-carpet event was more than an awards ceremony. It brought together students, alumni, industry stakeholders, and the media, creating a space for networking, collaboration, and inspiration for the next generation of creatives.

The dean of students with UniMAC- SRC on the red carpet 

Guest strike elegant poses on the red carpet at Akwaaba Film Challenge 2025

In the end, the Akwaaba Film Challenge was not just about competition, but about giving young filmmakers a platform to tell their own stories and project Ghanaian cinema onto the global stage.