SVAFF 2024: Seven Powerful Stories by Women

With a rich diversity of voices and narratives, the Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF) continues to amplify the stories of African women who are reshaping the cinematic landscape and challenging audiences with fresh perspectives. Historically, over 50% of the films at SVAFF have been directed by women—a trend that continued this year, celebrating the commitment and vision of African female directors.

Here are seven standout filmmakers from this year’s festival, each recognized for their bold storytelling, cinematic vision, and dedication to highlighting vital social issues.

Nisha Kalema
Ugandan filmmaker Nisha Kalema’s “Makula” has already garnered significant acclaim, winning Best Narrative Feature at SVAFF. The film follows Makula, a young woman torn between tradition and personal aspirations, as she navigates societal expectations. Kalema’s storytelling is visually striking and deeply rooted in Ugandan culture, celebrating both the beauty and the challenges of African womanhood. Her award is a testament to her talent and dedication to exploring complex female characters.

Here is the Official Trailer

Aissatou Njayou
In “Ngoungure,” Cameroonian director Aissatou Njayou delves into the legacies of authoritarianism and the power of gendered autonomy within a fictionalized precolonial African society. Through the character of Ngoungure, a woman challenging a dictatorial regime, Njayou presents a powerful critique of contemporary politics in Cameroon, subtly weaving in historical and cultural themes. Her use of oral tradition and symbolic illustrations creates a layered cinematic experience, inviting reflection on leadership, resilience, and the enduring impact of authoritarian rule. Ngoungure is a bold homage to the films of Souleymane Cissé, and Njayou’s cinematic style masterfully combines historical inquiry with feminist resolve.

Watch the Official Trailer

Mmakgosi Anita Tau
Botswanan director, Mmakgosi Anita Tau’s “For Them That Prey” is an intense short film that explores spiritual faith and the psychological journey of young women in Botswana grappling with identity and belonging. Tau’s work has previously won awards, and her fearless, expressive style has captivated audiences once again. Through evocative cinematography and nuanced dialogue, Tau challenges societal taboos, making her one of the voices to watch at this year’s festival. Official Trailer

Jade Bryan
Jamaican-American filmmaker Jade Bryan made history at SVAFF as the festival’s first deaf female filmmaker. Her documentary, “What Somalia Wants,” follows the life of a Somali refugee in the U.S., exploring the challenges of displacement, identity, and advocacy. Bryan’s unique perspective as a deaf filmmaker brings an added layer of authenticity to the film, which has won awards for its compelling narrative and groundbreaking approach to documentary storytelling. Bryan’s work is not only technically impressive but also empathetic, spotlighting often-overlooked voices within both African and diasporic communities.

Here is the Official Trailer

Tola Thomas

Nigerian filmmaker Tola Thomas’s “Forever Altered” is a haunting exploration of trauma, survival, and the journey towards healing. Set against the backdrop of post-conflict Nigeria, the film follows a young woman’s struggle to rebuild her life after experiencing devastating personal loss. Thomas’s masterful direction and raw storytelling shed light on the emotional toll of conflict and the indomitable resilience of African women. Her work stands out for its artistic integrity and emotional depth, marking Thomas as a rising star in African cinema.

Watch the Official Trailer.

Celestina Aleobua
Celestina Aleobua’s short film “Tina, When Will You Marry?” provides a humorous yet profound take on the societal pressure unmarried women face. Through comedic storytelling and a strong lead character, Aleobua addresses the intersection of tradition and modernity, illustrating the challenges faced by many African women. The film’s lighthearted tone doesn’t diminish its critique; instead, it makes the topic more accessible and relatable.

Cionin Lorenzo and Pearlette J Ramos

“Three (Extra)Ordinary Women,” directed by Cionin Lorenzo, is a powerful documentary that follows the journey of three women—Terry, an Afro-Palestinian, Tammy, an African American, and Pearlette, an Afro-Latina—as they challenge societal norms and overcome personal adversity. The film captures their emotional and physical journey as they climb Mount Kilimanjaro, using this metaphor to highlight their resilience in the face of systemic racism and gender inequality. Through candid storytelling and compelling visuals, ”Three (Extra)Ordinary Women” emphasizes the strength and empowerment of women of color, making a profound statement about perseverance and social change. The documentary invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of identity while celebrating the transformative power of collective action.

Here is the Official Trailer

Honoring the “Old Gs”
While these emerging filmmakers are reshaping the landscape of African cinema, SVAFF 2024 also honored trailblazing veterans like Ngozi Onwurah and Julie Dash. Onwurah’s “Neighborhood Alert,” a thought-provoking narrative short that won Best Short at both SVAFF and the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAAs), serves as a masterclass in suspense and social critique. Onwurah’s ability to blend personal storytelling with broader social issues reminds us of her enduring influence on African and diasporic cinema. Her film’s critical acclaim is well-deserved and highlights her dedication to pushing the boundaries of African cinema.

SVAFF’s 2024 female cultural icon, Julie Dash, who paved the way for generations of Black female filmmakers, was celebrated for her groundbreaking work in storytelling and cultural preservation. Her pioneering contributions continue to inspire younger filmmakers, many of whom attended this year’s festival. Dash’s impact resonates strongly across continents, illustrating the shared struggles and triumphs of African and African-American women in film.

A Festival of Social Consciousness
Films like “Ngoungure,” “Makula,” and “What Somalia Wants” underscore the festival’s commitment to social issues and community empowerment. From themes of power and resilience in precolonial African societies to contemporary reflections on displacement and gender expectations, these filmmakers bring critical discussions to the forefront. Through SVAFF, these talented women amplify the African narrative and inspire audiences worldwide to celebrate and reflect on the depth, resilience, and creativity of African women.
This year’s SVAFF reminded us all of the transformative power of cinema, especially when wielded by women unafraid to challenge norms and redefine the African narrative. As we look to the future, these filmmakers will undoubtedly continue to push boundaries and bring untold stories to life.