Online Reporter
Laura Maposa
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
ACTRESS, filmmaker and philanthropist, Sibongile Mlambo, known for her role in Netflix’s ‘Lost In Space’, will grace this year’s European Film Festival Zimbabwe Input Conference in Harare today.
Tendaiishe Chitima, a storyteller, performer, and visionary reshaping the narrative of African excellence in film who has been described as a force of nature, will be one of the feature speakers.
This year’s festival will honour female contributions to cinema by increasing the prize pool and reinforcing the adjudication panel with two additional female judges.
“The European Film Festival Zimbabwe (EuroFilmFestZW) will celebrate its decade of existence in grand style this year by doubling the prize money for its renowned Bioskop! Short Film competition and, most importantly, amplifying feminine voices in the film sector,” the organisers said.
A major film industry event in Zimbabwe, the festival promotes cultural exchange, showcases European cinema, and nurtures the development of local filmmaking.
Sibongile said:
“I’m looking forward to sharing the key moments that have shaped my journey, from my roots in Harare to starring in major international productions.
“I hope to offer meaningful insights to aspiring creatives who are eager to make their mark in the world. My story is one of perseverance, talent, and vision.
“I hope to see you all there.”
Festival co-curator Alex Gwaze reaffirmed the event’s commitment to gender inclusivity, highlighting deliberate efforts to elevate women’s voices within the industry.
“This year, we’re excited to add two women to our core adjudication team, aligning with our theme of celebrating women.
“We’re also thrilled to welcome back Sibongile Mlambo, Daniel Lasker, and Prosper Kunyeta.
“Their contributions have been invaluable in maintaining the quality and credibility of the Bioskop Competition, especially Sibongile, who has served as a judge since 2021 and continues to dedicate time to us despite her commitments in the USA,” Gwaze said.
“Sibongile currently stars as the smart, confident, and business-savvy executive Imani Okoye in 50 Cent’s hit series Power Book III: Raising Kanan.
“Beyond the screen, she serves as a Rotary International Ambassador, passionately advocating for global unity, refugee support, and the rights of women and children, causes that Zimbabwe can greatly benefit from,” he added.
This year’s EuroFilmFestZW will take place from today 30 to June 8, with major events scheduled in Harare and Bulawayo.
Mathew Masinge