Final Film Submission Deadline

May 15th, 2025 (EAT)

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What the 2025 East Africa Inter-College
Smartphone Film Competition

The 2025 East Africa Inter-College Smartphone Film Competition invites students from accredited colleges across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Djibouti to showcase their creativity in filmmaking. This competition provides a platform for young storytellers to explore the intersection of education, technology, and sustainability through film.

Students will work with professional filmmaking tools such as the Blackmagic Camera App and DaVinci Resolve, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry practices. Winners will receive state-of-the-art filmmaking equipment, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to have their films showcased regionally.

Our Vision – Africa Telling Its Own Story

At the core of this competition is a powerful vision by Highway Audio Visual Limited: empowering Africa to tell its own story. For too long, narratives about our continent have been shaped by external perspectives. Through this platform, Highway Audio Visual Limited invites students to reclaim their voices, celebrate their cultures, and share authentic African stories with the world—stories rooted in our experiences, dreams, and diverse heritage.

This competition is more than just a showcase of talent; it’s a movement to inspire the next generation of African filmmakers. By equipping students with industry-standard tools like the Blackmagic Camera App and DaVinci Resolve, we aim to bridge the gap between emerging storytellers and professional filmmaking. Our goal is to nurture creativity, foster innovation, and create a space where African stories are told with authenticity, pride, and global impact.

Fostering Creativity and Professional Growth

The competition provides a unique opportunity for students to:

  • Work with professional-grade tools like the Blackmagic Camera App and DaVinci Resolve, bridging the gap between amateur and professional filmmaking.
  • Develop technical and creative skills essential for thriving in the modern film industry.
  • Explore storytelling techniques that reflect the diversity, challenges, and triumphs of Africa.

A Platform for Young Voices

The Africa College Film Competition is more than just a contest; it’s a movement to amplify young voices. By participating, students gain:

  • Exposure to industry experts and audiences.
  • Opportunities to win exciting prizes, including equipment grants and internships.
  • A chance to represent their colleges and communities on a regional stage.

Connecting the Classroom to the Industry

This competition serves as a stepping stone for students, connecting classroom theory with real-world application. By embracing the tools and workflows of the professional filmmaking industry, participants are better prepared to excel in their careers.

Our Commitment

We are committed to fostering a generation of filmmakers who are bold, creative, and proud to tell stories that resonate deeply with audiences. Whether it’s capturing everyday life, exploring rich traditions, or addressing contemporary issues, this competition is a call to action for Africa’s storytellers.

TitleDescriptionDate
Competition Launch & Registration OpensOfficial launch event introducing the competition, theme, and expectations. Colleges can start registering their teams.1740743940 28th February 2025
1st Physical & Virtual Workshop - Filmmaking Using Blackmagic Camera App & DaVinci ResolveWorkshop covering smartphone cinematography, storytelling, and editing techniques.1742198400 17th March 2025 - 21st March 2025
Registration Closes Last day for colleges to register and approve student teams. No new registrations will be accepted.1742623200 22nd March 2025
Final Film Submission DeadlineAll final films must be submitted via the official entry form. Late submissions will not be accepted.1747310400 15th May 2025
Judging & ShortlistingJudges review all submissions based on storytelling, technical excellence, creativity, adherence to guidelines, and impact.1747612800 19th May 2025 - 23rd May 2025
Shortlist AnnouncementThe top films in each category will be announced via the official competition website and social media pages.1748433600 28th May 2025
2nd Physical & Virtual Workshop - Filmmaking Using Blackmagic Camera App & DaVinci ResolveWorkshop covering smartphone cinematography, storytelling, and editing techniques.1744027200 7th April 2025 - 11th April 2025
Screening & Awards CeremonyLive screening of shortlisted films and awards presentation for winners in different categories. The event will be live-streamed.1749211200 6th June 2025

SELECTED FILM JUDGES

Ali Mwachuo

producer -kenya

COMING SOON

NEW JUDGE

COMING SOON

NEW JUDGE

COMING SOON

NEW JUDGE

LUCAS YASIN

MEDIA SPECIALIST - KENYA

COMING SOON

NEW JUDGE

COMING SOON

NEW JUDGE

COMING SOON

NEW JUDGE

SELECTED FILM MENTORS

KIMANI MUNENE

FILM MENTOR

Creative Economy Ambassador with over 15 years of experience in the media and film industry. Specializing in film distribution, marketing, and investor relations, he provides strategic advisory services to filmmakers across Africa.

EDWIN NYONGESA

TV/Film Creative | Content Strategist

A seasoned creative professional actively involved in Kenya's TV, film, and podcasting industries. I excel in producing, directing, editing, and providing technical and crew support across various media formats. Known for my versatility.

COMING SOON

NEW MENTOR

COMING SOON

NEW MENTOR

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