The 2025 iKon Awards are fast approaching, set to recognize and celebrate the finest talent in Uganda’s vibrant film industry. From exceptional filmmakers to standout actors and industry professionals, this prestigious event shines a much-deserved spotlight on those shaping the future of cinema in Uganda. Ahead of the star-studded ceremony, we spoke with the nominees about their excitement, their journeys, and the importance of the iKon Awards in propelling the industry forward.
Among the standout nominees is Ms Nana Kagga, who has earned recognition in two categories: Best TV Actress for her powerful role in Damalie and Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her portrayal in the film Maria. “Being nominated for an iKon Award is an incredible honor,” Nana shared with excitement. “It’s a testament to the dedication and passion we pour into telling impactful stories that resonate with audiences.”
Reflecting on a particularly intense scene from Maria, she recalled, “One of the most challenging moments was portraying a mother who loses her son. It’s something no parent should ever endure, so imagining the pain of losing my child was a powerful and emotional experience.”
At just 15 years old, Ethan Mwesigwa is one of the youngest nominees, competing for Best Rising Star. His face lights up as he talks about his nomination: “It feels so good to have my hard work recognized for the first time. I’m truly happy, and I can’t wait to continue pushing myself.”
Ms Hellen Lukoma, a nominee for Best Actress in a TV Series for her role in Beloved, expressed her heartfelt gratitude: “Being recognized like this feels incredible. It proves that all my effort is being seen.” She also added with a smile, “I’m not rich in real life, but portraying a wealthy character on screen? That took a lot of imagination and skill!”
Mr Muhmood Zamunyo, nominated for Best Actor in Maria, described the iKon nomination as a milestone in his career. “Being nominated means I’m among the best, and that’s a huge honor. It’s a reminder of the impact our work has,” he shared. He also reflected on his most memorable scene: “My favorite was playing a tough father figure. In real life, I was raised with strong discipline, so I didn’t want my on-screen child to talk back when I spoke. That scene felt real to me.”
Mr Arthur Sewanyana, a Best Rising Star nominee for Damalie, sees this recognition as a game-changer. “This is my first nomination, and it means everything to me. It’s life-changing!” He described one of his most intense scenes: “The slap from my on-screen mother in Damalie was unforgettable. You have to stay focused and keep the emotion intact, even when you’re in shock from the slap!”
Arthur, who also has a large following on TikTok, continues to win over fans with his captivating screen presence and dynamic social media personality.
As the excitement mounts for the upcoming ceremony, the iKon Awards remain a crucial platform for recognizing and elevating talent in the African film industry. By celebrating the creativity of Ugandan filmmakers and actors, these awards inspire a new generation of storytellers and help shape the future of the industry.
iKon Awards Partners with Uganda Communications Commission (UCC)
In an exciting development, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has partnered with the iKon Awards to further promote Uganda’s creative sector. This collaboration is a significant step in showcasing Uganda’s growing film industry to a global audience.
Where to See the Nominees
Curious about this year’s nominees? The full list of nominees across all 22 competitive categories is now available on the iKon Awards’ social media platforms. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as we count down to the big night!
About The iKon Awards
Now in its 3rd edition, the iKon Awards will be held on March 29, 2025, at Serena Hotel Kampala. This annual event celebrates creativity, excellence, and innovation in Uganda’s film and creative industries. With its mission to honor the best talent, projects, and contributions, the iKon Awards play a pivotal role in highlighting the global potential of Uganda’s creative sector.
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