Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o has broken barriers by becoming the first black head of Berlin International Film Festival. Nyong’o’s appointment as the jury president has been widely celebrated, particularly in light of Berlinale’s lack of diversity in leadership positions in the past.
The Berlin International Film Festival, known as the Berlinale, stands as one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals globally, alongside Cannes, Venice, Sundance, and Toronto. Despite its prominence, the Berlinale has never before had a black individual lead its jury, making Nyong’o’s appointment a groundbreaking moment in the festival’s history.
Nyong’o’s role as jury head involves overseeing the selection of winning films in the festival’s main categories, including the coveted Golden and Silver Bears. Her appointment highlights a broader conversation within the film industry regarding the representation and inclusion of diverse voices in decision-making roles.
Addressing the significance of her appointment, Nyong’o expressed her deep honor at assuming the position. She emphasized the importance of diversity within the jury, noting that bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds enriches the film selection process. Nyong’o’s Oscar-winning performance in “12 Years A Slave” exemplifies her talent and influence in the industry, making her a fitting choice for the prestigious role.
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The festival’s directors, Mariëtte Rissenbeek and Carlo Chatrian, lauded Nyong’o’s selection, citing her embodiment of qualities cherished in cinema, including versatility and ability to resonate with diverse audiences. Nyong’o’s leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and insights to the jury’s deliberations, enhancing the festival’s commitment to showcasing a wide array of cinematic voices.
The Berlin International Film Festival will run until February 25th, with Nyong’o and her jury announcing the winning films in various categories. Notably, three African entries are among the 20 films competing for top honors, underscoring the festival’s commitment to highlighting stories from the continent.
Among these entries are films such as “Black Tea” by Mauritanian-born Malian director Abderrahmane Sissako, “Who Do I Belong To” by Tunisian-Canadian director Meryam Joobeur, and the documentary “Dahomey” by French-Senegalese filmmaker Mati Diop. These films offer diverse perspectives and narratives, further emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in the film industry.
Lupita Nyong’o is a Kenyan-Mexican actress and filmmaker known for her outstanding performances in both film and theater. She gained international acclaim for her role as Patsey in the historical drama “12 Years a Slave,” for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2014, becoming the first Kenyan and the first Mexican actress to win an Oscar.
Born on March 1, 1983, in Mexico City, Nyong’o grew up in Kenya and later studied acting at the Yale School of Drama. Her career began with roles in stage productions, including the play “Eclipsed,” for which she received a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Play.
In addition to her film and stage work, Nyong’o has been involved in various humanitarian and advocacy efforts. She is known for her advocacy on issues of racial and gender equality, as well as her support for initiatives promoting education and empowerment in Africa.
Nyong’o’s filmography includes roles in acclaimed films such as “Black Panther,” “Us,” and “Queen of Katwe.” She has also lent her voice to animated films and has appeared in several television series and documentaries.
Throughout her career, Nyong’o has been celebrated for her talent, versatility, and commitment to storytelling. She continues to inspire audiences worldwide with her captivating performances and dedication to using her platform for positive change.
