The 2025 edition of the Tswa Film Festival has wrapped up in Abuja after three days of film screenings, conversations, and creative exchange that placed fresh and daring storytelling at the centre of attention. Held from December 11 to 13, the festival brought together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences who share a love for cinema that pushes boundaries and reflects diverse human experiences.
Founded and directed by Sele Got, the Tswa Film Festival was created to offer an alternative space for storytelling--one where films outside the mainstream can thrive. At the heart of the festival is a clear mission: to bridge the gap between filmmakers and audiences and to create room for stories that are often overlooked in commercial cinema. According to Got, Tswa is intentional about programming films that broaden perspectives and move beyond narrow representations.
This year's programme featured films from nearly 20 countries, including works by young and emerging filmmakers from Nigeria, across Africa, and other parts of the world. The selection spanned short films, feature narratives, and documentaries, many of which explored themes of identity, culture, social realities, and the everyday human condition. Each screening invited audiences to engage with stories that challenge assumptions and spark reflection.
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Beyond film screenings, the festival also created space for dialogue and learning. Panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and informal conversations allowed filmmakers to speak directly with audiences about their creative journeys, inspirations, and challenges. These interactions helped break down the distance between storytellers and viewers, turning the festival into a shared experience rather than a one-way showcase.
A strong focus of the festival remained the development of new talent. Tswa positioned itself as a nurturing platform for young filmmakers, encouraging creative risk-taking and collaboration. By providing visibility and access to conversations with peers and mentors, the festival reinforced its commitment to supporting the next generation of African storytellers.
As the curtains closed on the 2025 edition, the Tswa Film Festival reaffirmed its growing role as a cultural platform in Abuja--one that values bold voices, celebrates diversity, and believes in the power of film to connect people across cultures and experiences. The festival ended not just with applause, but with a renewed sense of community and anticipation for the stories yet to be told.
