The Pearlwood Film Awards 2026 officially ushered Kyengera Central College students into a national cinematic competition with the launch of their student-produced film Road to Success, marking a major step in the growth of youth-driven storytelling in Uganda’s film industry.
The launch event, held under the 2026 Pearlwood Film Awards programme, signaled the beginning of a structured competition that will see secondary school productions screened, rated, and awarded based on creativity, performance, and audience engagement.
Organizers confirmed that the launch of Road to Success was not only a premiere but also an entry point into the Pearlwood Film Awards competition, which this year places strong emphasis on discovering and nurturing young filmmakers from secondary schools across the country.
The initiative is part of a wider strategy to build a pipeline of African storytellers by integrating film education into schools and connecting learners to professional cinematic platforms.
“This year we are focusing on youth storytelling,” organizers said. “We are officially ushering schools into a competitive space where their creativity will be tested, refined, and celebrated under the Pearlwood Film Awards,” said Jacqueline Kobusinge, Managing Director of the Pearlwood Film Awards.
*Youth Storytelling at the Center of the Film Movement*
The programme will feature weekly school engagements every Monday and Thursday, with selected institutions showcasing original productions as part of the competition cycle.
Kyengera Central College became one of the first schools to present a full production, demonstrating growing interest in film as both an educational tool and a creative career pathway.
Organizers emphasized that secondary schools represent the foundation of Uganda’s future creative economy, noting that early exposure to filmmaking disciplines such as acting, directing, editing, and production design is key to industry growth.
Road to Success explores themes of ambition, discipline, and the challenges faced by young people navigating education, family expectations, and personal dreams.
The film’s storytelling approach blends realism with school-based environments, giving it a grounded cinematic tone that reflects everyday youth experiences.
Students participated in all stages of production, from acting and set coordination to technical support roles.
*National Theatre Endorses Youth Film Development*
Mark Matsiko, Production Manager at the National Theatre (UNCC), commended the initiative, describing it as a critical bridge between education and professional theatre and film practice.
He encouraged students to take advantage of emerging creative opportunities, noting that many successful filmmakers begin their journeys in school-based productions.
“Thank you for being part of this opportunity,” Matsiko said. “I congratulate your school for coming up with such a brilliant idea. From this moment, some of you are going to become the best actors, directors, and producers.”
“The theatre is for you,” Matsiko said. “This is your space to grow, explore, and prepare for the industry.”
He further pledged institutional support for school productions, including access to performance spaces and collaborative development programs.
He further emphasized institutional support, noting:
“We are going to support you, and we are going to support schools. If you need space to perform, contact us. The theatre is open for you.”
He went on and highlighted the importance of expanding creative platforms beyond classrooms, encouraging students to engage with professional theatres, production houses, and film spaces.
Jacqueline Kobusinge, Managing Director of the Pearlwood Film Awards noted that the Pearlwood Film Awards initiative, are designed to create a structured pathway where young creatives can transition from school-level storytelling into professional filmmaking careers.
She went on and announced that audience engagement will play a significant role in determining competition outcomes.
“The voting will be based on views on the platform. So go and tell your aunties, uncles, cousins, neighbors—everyone—to watch the film. The more views, the higher the chances of winning.”
Films will be hosted on digital platforms such as Stream East Films, where viewership and interaction will contribute to scoring and recognition.
She urged the public to support student productions by watching and sharing content, noting that digital visibility is now a key component of modern cinematic success.
Higiro Leopold, who acted as a disciplinary teacher in the film, highlighted the importance of co-curricular development.
“Students participating in filmmaking are not going off track,” he said. “They are discovering their talents and expressing themselves in ways that academics alone cannot provide.”
He added: “Parents should sit with their children, talk to them, and understand their dreams. Many of the challenges shown in the film are real in society today.”
The film’s producer emphasized the need for safe and family-friendly content within the industry.
“Sometimes you watch a film with your family and feel uncomfortable. That is why we are creating content that is educational, safe, and meaningful for young audiences,” he said.
The entry of Kyengera Central College into the Pearlwood Film Awards competition marks a defining moment in Uganda’s creative education landscape.
With structured mentorship, national theatre support, and competitive exposure, students are being positioned as the next generation of African storytellers—ready to shape the future of cinema through authentic, youth-driven narratives.
Road to Success is not just a film premiere—it is a beginning of a competitive cinematic journey.
Do you have a story in your community or an opinion to share with us: Email us at Submit an Article
