When you talk of superhero characters and films in Nigeria, you immediately think of the US, but Urenna Amadi, a film director, is changing that narrative, becoming the first person in the country to achieve that feat.
Born on 27th November, Amadi, a multi-talented sculptor, artist, comic book writer, publisher, and filmmaker, has made a significant mark in the creative industry, rising through the ranks of her family business, Afriwood Motion Pictures (Afriwood Films).
Today, she serves as the creative and executive director of Afriwood Films, expanding the company from a small business into a thriving multimedia powerhouse.
Under her leadership, Afriwood Films has evolved into a prominent player in the Nigerian entertainment industry, with ventures in both comics and films. Additionally, Amadi spearheaded the launch of the Afriwood Films Initiative, a non-governmental organisation aimed at creating opportunities for African filmmakers. Through this initiative, Afriwood provides training for aspiring filmmakers and actors through its academy, helping to shape the future of African cinema.
Award-Winning Filmmaker and Global Recognition
Urenna Amadi’s talents as a filmmaker were brought to the forefront in 2019 when she co-wrote, directed, and produced the award-winning film Not a Slave. The film garnered international acclaim and earned her the title of Best Female Filmmaker at the Accolade Global Film Competition in 2019, among other prestigious accolades. This achievement solidified her reputation as one of Nigeria’s most innovative filmmakers.
In 2021, she added another feather to her cap by creating Nigeria’s first live-action superhero character, Shutter-Bird, a movie/comic book character inspired by her own life story. This creation marked a groundbreaking moment in Nigerian pop culture, bringing a unique African superhero to life and capturing the imagination of audiences both locally and internationally.
Nurturing Future Filmmakers
As the driving force behind Afriwood Film Academy, Amadi has successfully trained over 225 students, many of whom are now employed in the Nigerian film industry. During her time mentoring aspiring filmmakers, she directed and produced several short films, including The Stupid Painter (2014), Game Boys Play (2015), Same Girl (2015), Who Cares (2017), Crazy Gift-Tunnel (2017), and Facebooking (2017).
Early Life and Education of Urenna Amadi
Urenna Amadi was born and raised in Owerri, Imo State, in a family with strong creative roots. Her father, the late Sonnie Amadi, was the first journalist in their community, Umuororonjo village and she worked closely with him before his passing. Her father’s illness and the financial strain that followed led her to Lagos at the age of seven, where she lived with her aunt and completed her primary education. She returned to Owerri after her father’s death and continued her schooling.
From an early age, Amadi displayed a passion for drawing, a skill her parents encouraged. This talent served as a refuge during difficult times, especially after her father’s passing. During her secondary school years, she developed a love for robotics, football, and video games, and initially dreamed of becoming an engineer. Although she was offered admission to study laboratory science at the Federal University of Technology, she ultimately transferred to Imo State University, where she studied Fine and Applied Arts, graduating as a sculptor.
Following her university education, Amadi completed her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Eket, Akwa Ibom State, where she worked as an art teacher at Winners Chapel School.
Current Role and Legacy
Today, Amadi serves as the CEO of Afriwood Films, continuing to push the boundaries of creativity in Nigeria. With a legacy that includes nurturing young filmmakers, producing award-winning films, and introducing iconic African superheroes to the world, she is a trailblazer in the Nigerian creative industry. Her journey from a young artist in Owerri to a celebrated filmmaker and executive director is a testament to her resilience, vision, and passion for storytelling.
She remains committed to expanding opportunities for African filmmakers and advancing the representation of African stories on the global stage.