Women filmmakers dominated the spotlight at the 2026 edition of the Nollywood in Hollywood film showcase at the annual event, which was held in Los Angeles, United States.
In a statement on Thursday, the organisers said the annual showcase, founded in 2018 by Nigerian-American filmmaker Ose Oyamendan, aimed to strengthen cultural exchange and create opportunities for collaboration between Nollywood and the international film community.
Operations Director of the showcase, Maceo Willis, said the 2026 edition, held in partnership with the American Cinematheque, the USC School of Cinematic Arts and O2A Media, spotlighted three films directed by women as part of activities marking Women’s History Month.
According to Willis, the focus reflected the growing influence of women in shaping contemporary Nollywood storytelling and expanding the industry’s reach to global audiences.
He said the 2026 edition felt like a rebirth.
“Despite visa challenges affecting some filmmakers, we were able to stage one of the best editions of the showcase.
“As we move forward, we’re launching initiatives that will benefit the diaspora filmmaking community while continuing to bridge the gap between Nollywood and Hollywood,” he said.
The event opened on March 6 at the Aero Theatre in Los Angeles with the red-carpet premiere of Stitches, directed by British-Ghanaian filmmaker Shirley Frimpong-Manso.
Nigerian actress Dakore Egbuson-Akande, who starred in the film, said her return to the showcase years after attending its first edition, was deeply meaningful.
“This is awesome. This is a dream coming true in real time.
“I attended the very first Nollywood in Hollywood in 2018 with my film Isoken. Now in 2026, I’m back with Stitches, and it feels incredible,” she said.
Also, screenings of ‘When Nigeria Happens,’ directed by Ema Edosio-Deelen and ‘To Adaego With Love,’ directed by Nwamaka Chikezie, drew enthusiastic audiences, and explored realities of filmmaking in Nigeria.
Beyond the screenings, the event highlighted the role of diaspora-led initiatives in projecting Nigerian cinema to global audiences.
The festival attracted guests from across the film and cultural community, including Los Angeles City Council member Curren D. Price Jr.; Founder of the Pan African Film and Arts Festival, Ayuko Babu; and the festival’s General Manager and Director of Programming, Asantewa Olatunji.
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Also present was Richard Omordia, Nigerian-American President of Black Panther Strong, a co-sponsor of the event.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Price emphasised the importance of storytelling in connecting cultures.
“This event is about communication and cultural connection.
“On behalf of the four million residents of Los Angeles, I want to say thank you for opening doors for the diaspora and celebrating storytelling through film,” he said.