The Hollywood Reporter Names Mo Abudu Among Most Influential Women in International Film

Nigerian filmmaker Mosunmola Abudu, popularly known as Mo Abudu, has been named one of the Most Influential Women in International Film by The Hollywood Reporter.

In an Instagram post on May 13, 2025, Abudu announced the news, encouraging particularly young women to remain authentic and focused.

“I am truly honoured to be named, for the 4th consecutive year, as one of the Most Influential Women in International Film by The Hollywood Reporter especially as the list is revealed each year at the beginning of the Cannes Film Festival,” she said.

This year’s recognition, according to Abudu, is noteworthy because it mentioned the launch of her $50M Afro Film Fund for African filmmakers.

She also  acknowledged that it spotlighted the upcoming opening of EbonyLife Place London, which is considered the UK’s first African cinema and creative hub.

“I’m filled with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose,” she added.

Beyond her global recognition, the 60-year-old filmmaker said being on the list served as a rallying call to keep pushing for systemic inclusion across industries.

Apart from  Abudu, other notable women filmmakers included on The Hollywood Reporter list are: Funke Akindele, Barbara Broccoli, Renata Brandão, Cécile Gaget, Pippa Harris, Jay Hunt, Sophie Jordan, Minyoung Kim and Iris Knobloch.