How Ifeoluwa Fatogun’s AMVCA Win is Shaping the Future of African Storytelling
Nigerian film producer, Ifeoluwa Fatogun
Nigerian film producer, Ifeoluwa Fatogun, recently took the spotlight at the 11th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), winning the ‘Best Documentary’ category for her powerful work Dundun, directed by Ebi Atawodi. This recognition has not only validated her creative journey but also marked a turning point in her career.
Dundun delves into the cultural, spiritual, and historical significance of the talking drum in Yoruba land. Through powerful storytelling and visuals, the documentary captures the deep emotional and cultural ties Africans share with this traditional instrument.
Telling African Stories, the Right Way
In a statement, Fatogun said, “African filmmaking is evolving. We are finally telling our stories in ways that are honest, rooted, and visually compelling. The world is watching us, but more importantly, we’re watching ourselves with new eyes.”
For Fatogun, the goal wasn’t just to inform viewers—it was to make them feel something real. According to her, Africa has always had cinema—not in theatres—but in daily life, food, music, dances, and traditions. She believes the continent is now reclaiming both the message and the medium of storytelling.
A New Creative Chapter
Having worked on numerous creative projects such as music videos, commercials, and other documentaries, Fatogun is now poised to go deeper into African film production. With Dundun gaining international recognition, including upcoming screenings at global film festivals, she is ready to use this momentum to further elevate African voices and stories.
“We didn’t want to make a documentary that was just informed. We wanted to make something that felt; something that helped us remember.” – Ifeoluwa Fatogun
Inspiring Future Creators
Fatogun’s journey shows how culturally rooted content can stand out on global stages. Her AMVCA win is not just a personal milestone—it’s a call to young African creatives to embrace their roots and tell their stories boldly.
Ifeoluwa Fatogun’s success with Dundun proves that authentic African stories have a place in the global film conversation. As more storytellers rise, her victory serves as both inspiration and evidence that African cinema is not just growing—it’s thriving.
