Ghana’s creative arts industry is set to gain a new pipeline of fresh talent with the introduction of the Schools International Films Awards (SIF Awards), an annual competition designed to unearth and nurture young actors from Junior High to tertiary level.
Launched by Picturegenetics Studio in partnership with Elson Multimedia, the initiative will give students a national platform to showcase their acting prowess, with winners walking away with cash prizes and career opportunities.
Speaking at the launch, Chief Executive Officer of Picturegenetics Studio, Mr. Raymond Lartey, emphasised that the awards are aimed at building students’ confidence while creating a pathway into the film industry.
“This project will search for, discover, develop, and promote the hidden talents of our young people, opening doors for them in Ghana’s fast-growing creative arts space,” he said.
The maiden edition will feature seven Junior High Schools from the Greater Accra Region, competing over eight weeks. Contestants will perform 13-minute scripts twice weekly — every Wednesday and Saturday from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Prizes for the season include GH₵5,000 for Best Actor or Actress, GH₵3,000 for Best Supporting Actor or Actress, and GH₵3,000 for Best Story.
Participating schools are Addintrom School, Evergreen Field Montessori, Great Cenesco School, United Baylor Academy, Emmanuel Excellence, Sowutuom, and Ample Montessori School.
By its design, the SIF Awards is not just a competition, but a launchpad for the next generation of Ghanaian film stars.
