The 2025 iKon Awards continue to spotlight outstanding talent in the film industry, celebrating the creativity and dedication of filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals.
Ahead of the grand ceremony, we reviewed the nominees, who shared their thoughts on the significance of the iKon Awards and their impact on the film industry’s growth.
Notable Nominees & Their Reactions
Among the nominees is Nana Kagga, recognized in two categories: Best TV Actress for her role in Damalie and Best Supporting Actress in the feature film Maria. Expressing her excitement, she said, “Being nominated for an iKon Award is an incredible honor. It validates the hard work and passion that goes into creating impactful storytelling.”
Reflecting on a particularly challenging scene in Maria, she shared, “One scene that required extra preparation was portraying a mother losing her son. No parent should have to go through that, so imagining such a loss was heartbreaking.”
At just 15 years old, Ethan Mwesigwa, one of the youngest nominees and a Best Rising Star contender, shared his excitement: “It feels amazing because, for the first time, my hard work has been recognized. I am truly happy.”
Hellen Lukoma, nominated for Best Actress in a TV Series for her role in Beloved, expressed her gratitude: “It feels great knowing my efforts are being recognized. It’s a beautiful feeling.” She humorously added, “I don’t know how to act rich in real life, but I had to embody a wealthy character on screen.”
Muhmood Zamunyo, nominated for Best Actor in Maria, shared what the recognition means to him: “Being nominated means I am among the best, and that means a lot to me.” He also highlighted his most memorable scene: “My best scene was playing a tough father. I was raised with strict authority, so I didn’t want my on-screen child to talk back while I was speaking.”
Arthur Sewanyana, another Best Rising Star nominee for his role in Damalie, and a well-known TikToker, described the nomination as life-changing: “This nomination means everything to me because it is my first recognition.” Recalling a particularly intense scene, he shared, “My best scene was when my on-screen mother slapped me in Damalie. You have to stay focused in the movie, despite the slap!”
As anticipation builds for the upcoming ceremony, the iKon Awards continue to play a crucial role in recognizing and elevating talent in the African film industry, inspiring the next generation of storytellers.
Recently, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) partnered with the iKon Awards to further promote and support the industry, signaling a promising future for Ugandan cinema.
