Loukman Ali takes the spotlight as The Girl in a Yellow Jumper wins five awards.
By Helena Olori
It was a thrilling historic night for the Ugandan Film and Television industry as 24 deserving winners were announced, taking home the iconic “Kibo” plaques, at the much awaited maiden edition of the iKonAwards held on Saturday March 25th, 2023 at the Kampala Serena Hotel, Uganda.
In his opening remarks, founder of the iKon Awards, Humphrey Nabimanya, said “tonight is a night of dreams, and I’m really honored and privileged to have the opportunity to build and bring to life this Ugandan dream with each of you here right now. Ugandan Film and TV has a promising future!”
The night was not without its highlights, as the rising filmmaker, Loukman Ali takes the spotlight with his intriguing work, The Girl on a Yellow Jumper, clinching a total of five prestigious awards, including Best Visual Effects, Best Sound, Best Editor, Best Director of cinematography (Naizi Nasser), and Best Actor in a Leading Role (Michael Wawuyo Jr). Additionally, Ali’s short film, Sixteen Rounds, won the Best Short film category.
Other noteworthy winners include Brian Musika, who won the Best Student Film, and Best Documentary categories for his film, Pius. The acclaimed filmmaker, Doreen Mirembe (alongside Gilbert Lukaliya), took home the Best Director award for their film, Kafa Coh, which also won the highly coveted Best Film award. Mirembe’s night was crowned with the “Ikon Fellow of the Year” award, and a grand prize of $20,000.
As customary with awards nights, a Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed on John Winston Katende for his indelible contributions to Ugandan cinematic landscape.
Themed “Dreaming with the Stars,” the awards ceremony organised by SAUTIplus Media Hub brought together filmmakers and entertainment moguls from across Africa. Notable were Nollywood legends, Ramsey Nouah, and Chris Odeh, who facilitated masterclasses in acting and production for the industry’s rising talents prior to the ceremony.
See full list of winners here.