The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) has announced the call for entries for its highly anticipated 11th edition, which reignites the continent’s passion for storytelling and celebrates its ever-evolving creative landscape. From December 23, 2024, to January 31, 2025, filmmakers, content creators, and storytellers are invited to submit their works for a chance to be recognized on one of Africa’s most prestigious stages.
This announcement underscores AMVCA's legacy as a platform that elevates African storytelling, presenting a unique blend of innovation, culture, and artistry. But this year, the focus goes beyond the accolades—it’s about reimagining African cinema's future and how creatives from diverse backgrounds can collectively redefine global perspectives on African stories.
A Beacon for Creativity and Diversity
The AMVCA is not just an awards ceremony; it’s a cultural celebration. It stands as a beacon for showcasing the immense diversity of talent across Africa's regions, from Nollywood's cinematic giants to emerging storytellers from East, West, and Southern Africa. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, for MultiChoice, aptly describes it as a celebration of the “vibrancy and diversity of African storytelling.”
In its 11th iteration, the awards expand their lens, inviting projects broadcast or publicly screened from January 1 to December 31, 2024. This inclusivity offers a platform for both established creators and emerging voices to shine, reinforcing the AMVCA’s commitment to bridging traditional and contemporary narratives.
Breaking Down the Submission Process
The submission process is as meticulous as it is accessible. Creatives can submit films, made-for-television movies, or television series online via the AMVCA platform. Ensuring quality remains paramount: entries must reflect their broadcast versions, with high production values and no watermarks or branding that could disrupt the judging process.
Key categories include Best Digital Content, recognizing creators who’ve leveraged platforms like YouTube and Instagram to tell unique stories, and Indigenous Language Films, a nod to the rich linguistic heritage of the continent. Entries in all categories must be subtitled in English, ensuring accessibility for the AMVCA's diverse jury and audience.
The Evolution of African Cinema
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the awards night lies a deeper narrative: the evolution of African cinema. The AMVCA continues to adapt to changing times, incorporating digital storytelling formats and embracing creators from the diaspora. This inclusivity ensures that African cinema remains both relevant and revolutionary, captivating global audiences with authentic narratives.
Moreover, the AMVCA serves as a launchpad for creators to gain recognition, foster collaborations, and access opportunities within Africa’s burgeoning entertainment industry.
Marking the Calendar
The 11th AMVCA promises to be a grand spectacle, broadcast live across Africa Magic channels in May 2025. With its glittering red carpet, electrifying performances, and heartfelt tributes, the event will celebrate the remarkable achievements of African storytellers while setting new standards for creative excellence.
As the countdown begins, one thing is clear: the AMVCA is more than an event—it’s a movement. It’s a rallying cry for creators to dream bigger, push boundaries, and tell the stories that only they can.