Shimataver Igbawua’s “Salamatu’s Rhapsody” To Debut In Austria

Salamatu’s Rhapsody (2024), a coming of age short film produced by Shimataver Igbawua for British Council’s Film Lab Africa, has been selected for the 2025 Linz International Short Film Festival in Austria. 

Directed by Adejumo Oluwatimilehin and Abu-bakr S. Adamu, Salamatu’s Rhapsody is a story about a girl’s dreams and personal freedom, highlighting the conflict with cultural heritage. 

Igbawua, who recently wrapped on his feature debut, expressed his excitement for the international selection and what it means to him via his Instagram page

“To have our film stand among such powerful stories on a global stage means everything. Each festival reminds me why we do this work: to tell stories that matter,” he shared. 

He also appreciated his crew for their contribution towards the short film project, which made it worthy for global recognition. 

Prior to this selection, Salamatu’s Rhapsody debuted at the Nigerian International Film & TV Summit in Lagos and London. It was also selected for the Film Africa 2024 in London including receiving a UK Film Award recognition.