Ncozana Showcases The Reality Of Zimbabwean Stories Through Film
Harare-based film producer and storyteller Blessing Ncozana is using film to bring untold Zimbabwean stories to the screen, amplify vulnerable voices and create opportunities for young creatives.
Ncozana is a semi-finalist in the Storyteller/Journalism Impact Award category at The List Awards 2026. She is the producer of the award-winning short film Trapped, which was recognised at the Zambia Short Film Festival and Films That Move 2026.
Speaking to The List Awards by Identities Media Holdings, Ncozana said her work was inspired by the untold stories that rarely make it to the screen.
“I was inspired by the untold Zimbabwean stories that never make it to screen. Growing up, I watched talented artists struggle to be heard and young women whose stories ended in silence,” she said.
She said she came to view film as more than entertainment, but as a tool for conversation and justice. This belief inspired the production of Trapped, with the aim of creating films that spark dialogue on issues that are often whispered about.
Beyond film production, Ncozana has used her work to amplify vulnerable voices through collaborations with organisations such as Shamwari Yemwanasikana. She is also creating a podcast to archive Zimbabwe’s arts legacy, while using film to create opportunities for young creatives to work and learn.
Ncozana said her work is driven by a commitment to documenting Zimbabwean stories and building sustainable platforms for the next generation of artists and filmmakers.
Reflecting on her recognition by The List Awards, Ncozana said the nomination had given visibility to work that often happens behind the scenes.
“Being a finalist for The List Awards means my quiet work is being seen and validated. As a producer, I am often behind the scenes, so this nomination tells me that stories with purpose still matter,” she said.
She said the recognition was also an honour for her team, cast and crew of Trapped, and every creative who believed in the project.
Looking ahead, Ncozana said she would continue producing bold, conversation-starting films, grow 15 Minutes of How It Started into a national archive and open doors for more Zimbabwean creatives to tell their stories to the world.