0
0
Ceci Wanza is an acclaimed, award-winning Kenyan filmmaker whose work spans directing, producing, and screenwriting. With over a decade in the entertainment industry, she has cemented her place as a leading creative force in African cinema, making significant contributions to film, television, advertising, and documentary storytelling.
Her groundbreaking series Nairobi Bachelor (2024), which she created, directed, and wrote, has captivated audiences across Africa. Streaming on Showmax, it dominated the number-one spot in South Africa and Kenya for four consecutive weeks and remained in the top 10 for an impressive
13 weeks. Her short film Kanairo, which she directed and co-wrote, has received international acclaim, winning awards at the NGO Film Festival (2023), Sondeka Awards, and Tanzanian Film Festival (2023), while also earning a nomination at the Zanzibar Film Festival (2024).
Ceci’s versatility shines through her diverse portfolio. She has worked on acclaimed films like Get Some Money – The Parable of Judas (2017) and The Editor (2018), the latter earning multiple Riverwood Awards. Her work in advertising includes the Betika TVC – It is Possible
with Betika, showcasing her ability to craft compelling narratives. On television, she has brought audiences closer to the art of filmmaking with The Silver Screen and explored women’s corporate leadership experiences in The Boss Lady. Her commitment to impactful storytelling extends to documentary filmmaking, with E-Waste winning the 2022 Annual Journalistic Excellence Award for Best Environmental Documentary.
RELATED:TAKE 5! with Clementina Kabutha
As a producer, she played a key role in Showmax’s first licensed Kenyan production, A Better Life, spanning two successful seasons (2022–2023). Her contributions to the industry earned her a nomination for Best TV Producer – Drama at the Women in Film Awards (2024 & 2025).
Recognized for her expertise, Wanza served as a jury member for the Kenya International Sports Film Festival (2023/2024). She was also part of the production team for Netflix’s first Kenyan series, Volume, under the mentorship of Justine Gitahi.
A proud alumna of the 2024 Some Fine Day Pix Directing Mentorship Program, Wanza is currently in post-production for her project Makonde. She is also developing her feature film Kanairo and her upcoming documentary Miale, slated for release in 2025. With a passion for telling authentic African stories, she continues to push creative boundaries, crafting content that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Ceci: What do you like most about your job as a producer / director?
Rahab: What I love most about my job as a producer is assembling the right team for each project and overseeing its journey from development to distribution. I enjoy the challenge of aligning every aspect of the production to ensure a seamless path to the audience. As a director, I find immense joy in the creative process—bringing a script to life through visuals, collaborating with creative department heads to craft a masterpiece, and experiencing the magic of scoring sessions in the studio, all culminating in the bliss of a final, polished picture.
Ceci: What do you consider your artistic process when it comes to making a film?
Rahab: My artistic process in filmmaking is a blend of vision, collaboration, and adaptability. It begins with deeply understanding the story—its themes, emotional core, and the unique perspective I want to bring to it. From there, I focus on assembling the right team, ensuring that each
department aligns with the film’s creative and narrative goals. During development and pre-production, I refine the script, plan the visual language, and map out how to translate words into compelling imagery. On set, I embrace collaboration, allowing space for actors and crew to bring their expertise while maintaining a strong directorial vision. I believe in creating an environment where creativity thrives. Post-production is where the film truly comes to life—editing, scoring, and sound design all play crucial roles in shaping the final experience. I constantly realign the project with its distribution strategy, ensuring it reaches the right audience in the most impactful way. Above all, my artistic process is rooted in storytelling—every decision I make is in service of telling a compelling, immersive, and emotionally resonant story.
Ceci: Why did you start making films?
Rahab: I started making films because I didn’t see enough representation of the Kenya I knew—the landscapes, languages, people, and textures that shape everyday life. I felt a deep need to tell authentic stories in their rawest form, capturing the essence of my reality on screen. Through
filmmaking, I strive to showcase the richness of Kenyan life while portraying its truths with honesty and depth.
Ceci: What are you currently watching?
Rahab: Currently rewatching historical pieces like “Roots”
Ceci: Any advice to those starting out in the film industry ?
Rahab: For those starting out in the film industry, my advice is to be relentless in your pursuit of storytelling. Hone your craft by constantly learning—watch films, read scripts, study cinematography, and understand the business side of filmmaking. Build strong relationships; collaboration is at the heart of this industry. Surround yourself with passionate, like-minded creatives who challenge and inspire you. Be open to feedback, but stay true to your unique voice. Start with what you have—don’t wait for the perfect budget or equipment. Tell stories that matter to you, and let your authenticity shine. Most importantly, be patient and resilient. Filmmaking is a journey of persistence, and success comes to those who keep pushing forward, no matter the obstacles. BE HUNGRY AND CURIOUS.
