Avas Ronald: Championing Ugandan Film and Cultural Narratives

From acting in high school to directing acclaimed films, Avas Ronald is redefining storytelling in Uganda’s West Nile region.

Meet Avas Ronald, a passionate film director, writer, and cinematographer hailing from West Nile, the North Western part of Uganda. Starting his artistic journey as an actor in 2015, Avas featured in projects like "Campus Freaks" on Urban TV and the award-winning short film "Rain", which claimed Best Film in 2018. These experiences fueled his transition into writing and cinematography, ultimately leading him to direct impactful films.

Avas’s directorial debut came in 2020 with the short film "PAMVU", a compelling narrative about gender-based violence, supported by Outbox Uganda, Platforms Africa, and UNFPA. His most recent feature film, "Across Mt. Wati," premiered on November 2, 2024, marking another milestone in his career. This project not only showcased his growth as a filmmaker but also became the first feature film to sell out within West Nile, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers in the region.

Achievements and Challenges

Avas’s work has been celebrated for its authenticity and cultural relevance. He takes pride in crafting stories that reflect African perspectives and explore themes rooted in the continent’s diverse cultures. Among his greatest accomplishments is teaching refugees in the BidiBidi Refugee Camp how to write, edit, and use cinematography to share their narratives. These workshops have amplified voices often overlooked, fostering resilience and creativity within displaced communities.

Like many independent filmmakers, Avas has faced significant challenges, including funding constraints and managing large teams. However, his ability to collaborate with equally passionate individuals has been key to overcoming these obstacles. His journey exemplifies the power of persistence and teamwork in bringing scripts to life.

Inspiration and Vision

Avas draws inspiration from the slow but steady growth of Uganda’s film industry and the diminishing stereotypes about filmmakers being unserious professionals. His ultimate goal is to expand his production house, providing platforms for emerging filmmakers and producing films with international appeal.

He envisions a future where African stories are as widely embraced as Western movies, creating jobs and preserving cultural heritage. For Avas, storytelling is a vital tool for safeguarding the values and perspectives that define African communities.

Advice to Aspiring Filmmakers

To those entering the film industry, Avas advises: "Be passionate and resilient. It won’t always add up immediately, but belief in your work and its purpose will carry you through." This mindset reflects the dedication and resolve that have defined his career.

Follow Avas Ronald Stay updated on Avas’s projects and creative journey through his social media platforms:

• Facebook: Avas Ronald

• Instagram: @avasronald

• Twitter (X): @DirAvasRonald

• YouTube: Avas Ronald’s Channel

Fun Fact: When not directing or writing scripts, Avas enjoys composing poetry. He is currently working on his first anthology, blending his love for words and storytelling into another creative outlet.