Nollywood filmmakers, Mo Abudu, Funke Akindele, and Jade Osiberu have earned a spot on The Hollywood Reporter’s list of the 40 Most Powerful Women in International Film.

This list recognizes women who are bringing stories to a global stage and nurturing new voices despite a disrupted film market.

Here’s how The Hollywood Reporter describes these filmmakers these three powerful African film-makers who have for the past years graced our cinemas with captivating stories and productions.

Mo Abudu (CEO, EbonyLife Media)

Africa’s production industry faced a setback when Amazon Prime Video left the African originals business. Yet, Abudu, a pioneer in African media, continues to thrive. Her recent project, the short film “Dust to Dreams” directed by Idris Elba, received funding from the African Export-Import Bank’s $1 billion Creative Africa film fund.

Abudu emphasizes the need for the international industry to embrace diverse stories. “We need a systemic shift towards inclusion,” she says. “Diverse storytelling isn’t just about representation; it’s about unlocking a wealth of untapped creative potential.”