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Rushlake Media has partnered with Ubongo Kids , Africa’s leading producer of educational kids’ content to bring their incredible shows to international audiences!

Philipp Hoffmann, Founder and CEO of Rushlake Media, commented: “We are excited to partner with Ubongo in bringing these outstanding educational series to new audiences. The need for accessible and high-quality learning resources is greater than ever, and we are honored to support Ubongo in its mission to empower young learners globally through engaging, research-driven content.”

Read more about the partnership here: https://lnkd.in/dxs5gdyf

We are proud to announce that two films represented by Rushlake Media have been nominated at the 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos has been nominated for the BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY and The Empty Grave has been nominated for the BEST INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE EAST AFRICA. Vote Here: https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/amvca/season/11/vote

INDUSTRY EVENTS

Kenya’s film industry needs strong policies and financial backing to thrive. Mr. Timothy Owase, CEO of Kenya Film Commission, will be part of this exciting webinar which will explore how government initiatives and funding can empower filmmakers and build a sustainable creative economy.
📅 Date: 27th March 2025
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EAT
📍 Virtual

The African International Short Film Market (AISFM) is designed to introduce the industry to this premier marketplace, showcasing its strategic focus on short films as a catalyst for creating opportunities for young and emerging filmmakers while solving distribution challenges for short films.

Date: 28th March 2025
Time: 9am WAT/10am CAT/11am EAT
Virtual

GRANTS AND SUBMISSIONS

DOCUBOX OPEN CALL FOR FILMMAKERS! 🎬

DOCUBOX is looking for bold, original voices from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, and the DRC.
Calls Available:
4 Short Fiction Films – $8,000 each
4 Short Documentaries – $8,000 each
2 Feature-Length Documentaries – $20,000 each
📅Deadline: April 30, 2025

APPLY HERE

All African Independent Film Festival

Submissions are now open for the All African Independent Film Festival (AAIFF Africa) Showcase your unique vision, connect with talented filmmakers, and celebrate the vibrant diversity of African cinema.

Deadline:01 August 2025

APPLY HERE

TAKE 5!

Meet Semulema Daniel, a passionate storyteller from Uganda. His work is a blend of narrative and vision, whether in producing a feature film like ‘Imperial Blue’ or directing music videos that bring a visual pulse to the beats of East Africa. As part of Dabbo D Films, he’s been fortunate to craft stories that resonate with audiences and push the boundaries of storytelling.

His collaborations with nonprofit organizations such as GIZ, the UN, and Makerere’s School of Social Sciences have allowed him to delve into documentary filmmaking, exploring the real and raw stories that shape our society. Filmmaking is not just a profession; it’s his calling.

Rahab: What do you like most about your job as a producer / director

Daniel: What I love most about my job as a producer and director is the exhilarating feeling of creation. It’s the joy of seeing an idea transform into reality—whether I’m in the role of a producer, providing the paints and canvas for the director, or as the director, using those materials to craft a breathtaking masterpiece. The thought that our work can influence and inspire others for years to come is incredibly rewarding. But perhaps the most gratifying moment is hearing the cheers and screams from friends and family in the audience when my name appears in the credits. It’s a reminder of the support and love that fuels my passion for storytelling.

Rahab: What do you consider your artistic process when it comes to making a film

Daniel: When it comes to making a film, my artistic process revolves around storytelling with a comedic tone. I find that humor is a powerful tool for exploring nuanced stories, allowing audiences to laugh at themselves and reflect on the everyday aspects of life. My inspiration often comes from the ordinary moments we all experience, and I strive to capture these with a light-hearted touch that resonates with viewers.

I also believe that collaboration is key to bringing these stories to life. I see my team as an extension of myself; together, we work to infuse each project with a shared vision and energy. This collective creativity helps us to craft films that are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking and relatable.

Rahab: Why did you start making films?

Daniel: I started making films because of my love for travel and my curiosity about the world. As a young student searching for a career path, I explored professions that would allow me to explore new places. I admired Richard Quest from CNN’s “Quest Means Business,” who traveled extensively, and this fascination led me to discover the world of filmmaking.

Already a cinema enthusiast, I often found myself watching films and wondering how they were made. This curiosity and passion for storytelling drew me to film school, where I began to learn the craft. It was a natural progression from my love of travel and exploration to capturing stories on film, and that’s how my journey into filmmaking began.

Rahab: What are you currently watching?

Daniel: I’m currently re-watching old TV series like “The Flash” and “DC Legends of Tomorrow.” There’s something comforting about revisiting these shows; I trust that they’ll deliver the entertainment and enjoyment I’m looking for. With so many new shows out there, I often prefer to stick with familiar favorites rather than commit to something unknown.

In addition to these, I’m also exploring new African cinema. It’s fascinating to see what’s being made across the continent and to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse stories and perspectives emerging from African filmmakers. This mix of old favorites and fresh, regional content keeps me inspired and connected to the broader world of storytelling.

Rahab: Any advice to those starting out in the film

Daniel: My advice for those starting out in the film industry is to practice, practice, practice. The more you work on your craft, the more you’ll hone your skills and develop your unique voice as a filmmaker. It’s important to constantly be creating, whether it’s short films, scripts, or even just brainstorming ideas.

Additionally, always look out for collaboration opportunities. Working with others not only enriches your projects with new perspectives but also helps you build a strong network within the industry. These connections can be invaluable as you progress in your career, leading to new opportunities and collaborations. Keep pushing yourself, stay curious, and never stop learning.