Two alumni of the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) made major waves at the recent IKON Awards, taking home top awards in some of the night’s most competitive categories and reaffirming the program’s growing influence on Africa’s film industry
Isiko Abubaker walked away with the award for Best Sound Design for his work on the feature film Karamoja, while Ivan Tusabe, alongside a team of fellow MTF alumni, clinched Best Short Film for Jimbi — a fantasy-horror story that boldly tackles the cost of looking away.
Jimbi tells the story of Kisitu, a timid young man who witnesses a sexual assault but chooses silence over action. That decision comes back to haunt him in the form of a mysterious, gruesome skin rash that threatens to transform him into a terrifying creature known as a “Jimbi.” The 15-minute short has been hailed for its gripping narrative and chilling portrayal of bystander guilt. Before its IKON Awards victory, Jimbi had already made a mark at the recently concluded UCC Regional Film Competition, winning Best Film, Best Soundtrack, and Best Actor (Atuhaire Emmanuel).
The film was a true showcase of MTF alumni collaboration. Tusabe took the lead as screenwriter and director, with Talemwa Pius and Nalunga Hannah producing. Tamale served as script supervisor, and Charles Sejjemba worked as production assistant. The project was funded by Docubox Kenya through its Get Reel program, supporting films that raise awareness about Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
Reflecting on the win, Tusabe said; “Winning at IKON is a dream come true. Jimbi was born from a deep need to tell stories that challenge and inspire. This recognition belongs to the entire team of passionate creatives who poured their hearts into it.”
Meanwhile, Isiko, whose meticulous sound design helped bring Karamoja’s raw landscapes to life, spoke about the power of his craft; “Sound is the soul of storytelling, and I’m honoured that the work we put into Karamoja resonated so strongly. It’s an incredible feeling to see it celebrated.”
The MultiChoice Talent Factory, now a recognized launchpad for emerging African filmmakers, aims to equip young creatives with the technical skills, storytelling expertise, and industry networks they need to thrive. Victoria Goro, Academy Director at MultiChoice Talent Factory East Africa, praised the alumni’s achievements:
“We are beyond thrilled to see our alumni taking the industry by storm. Ivan, Isiko, and the entire Jimbi team embody the spirit of MTF – creativity, collaboration, and impact. Their success at the IKON Awards is a shining example of how MTF alumni are shaping the future of African storytelling.”
The wins not only celebrate individual excellence but also highlight how initiatives like MTF are nurturing a new generation of African filmmakers — bold, fearless, and ready to make their mark on the world stage.
