Black Star film festival turns 10, unveils global jury
The Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF), one of Africa’s most distinguished platforms for cinema, marks a significant milestone this year as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. Under the theme: ‘The Relevance of Film in Society,’ the 2025 edition shines a spotlight on the transformative power of film in addressing social issues, creating employment, and driving economic growth across the continent.
As Africa’s youth population swells and nations search for innovative development pathways, the theme reflects the timely recognition of film not just as art, but also as industry and activism.
To commemorate the festival’s decade-long impact, BSIFF has unveiled a 19-member global jury spanning Africa, Europe, and North America to judge this year’s entries. The jury will be chaired by Mr. Cecil Sunkwa-Mills, a seasoned media executive and former Managing Director of MultiChoice Ghana, who currently serves on Ghana’s National Media Commission.
In his address at the announcement ceremony, Mr. Sunkwa-Mills acknowledged the festival’s evolution and its impact on the African film landscape.
“All credit should go to the founder, Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante, for the incredible impact BSIFF has had over the past decade. Kudos to the various teams who have guided the festival through what has not been an easy journey,” he said.
He further pledged the jury’s commitment to upholding excellence, noting that the panel’s objective is to “amplify the festival’s influence in Africa and beyond while maintaining the integrity and prestige of the BSIFF awards.”
This year’s jury features filmmakers, producers, critics, and industry leaders from across the globe, reflecting BSIFF’s stature as a festival of international repute.
Full List of Jury Members:
- Cecil Sunkwa-Mills (Ghana) – Head of Jury
- Frank Dagadu Mawuli (Ghana)
- Gyesiwaa Ansah (Ghana)
- Mortinno Morton (Ghana)
- Arnold Setohou (Ivory Coast)
- Tony Asankomah (Ghana)
- Kemi Adosoye (Nigeria)
- Some Emmanuel (Burkina Faso)
- Jason Nartey (Ghana)
- Stanley Aideloje Ohikhuare (Nigeria)
- Darius Matheson (Canada)
- Victor Okhai (Nigeria)
- Laurene Manaa Abdalla (Ghana)
- William Manful (Ghana)
- Yaw Sompa (Ghana)
- Aba Arthur (USA)
- Sir Jet Novuka (South Africa)
- Cassandra Tettey (Ghana)
With its continued emphasis on industry development and cultural exchange, BSIFF remains a beacon for African storytelling, offering a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers to showcase their work to the world.
As the festival prepares for another impactful edition, organizers, stakeholders, and audiences alike are poised to reflect on its legacy and look ahead to a future where film continues to shape narratives, influence policy, and inspire change.
Founded by Ghanaian filmmaker and creative leader Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante, BSIFF has grown into a globally respected festival that champions African cinema, hosts workshops and industry events, and connects filmmakers with global markets. The 10th edition is set to be its most dynamic yet.
