On 28 November 2024, Malawian filmmaker Shemu Joyah was awarded the title of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters)* by HE David Martinon, Ambassador of France to South Africa, Lesotho, and Malawi. The ceremony was held at the Alliance Française of Blantyre in Malawi.
Mr Joyah was honoured for his outstanding contributions to the creative arts, particularly cinema. His films, including Seasons of a Life (2008), The Last Fishing Boat (2012), and The Road to Sunrise (2017), the first Malawian film submitted for Oscar consideration in 2019, have garnered international acclaim for their bold exploration of social themes. His groundbreaking work has placed Malawian cinema on the global map and inspired a new generation of storytellers.
Ambassador Martinon highlighted Mr Joyah’s resilience and creativity:
Shemu Joyah’s journey as a self-taught filmmaker exemplifies the power of storytelling to transform lives and build connections. His unwavering dedication to his craft and his mentorship of young filmmakers built the future of Malawian cinema.
Joyah’s contributions extend beyond filmmaking. He has championed arts education, and starting in 2025, he will serve as a lecturer in Malawi’s new university filmmaking course, fostering a new wave of creative talent.
* The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Order of Arts and Letters), established in 1957, recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the enrichment of arts and literature in France and globally.
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