This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
On July 2, 2020, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences made history by inviting 819 film creators from around the world to join the prestigious club, including two Kenyan filmmakers, Toni Kamau and Wanjiru Njendu.
With over ten years of experience producing content for global broadcasters like Al Jazeera, BBC World, and MTV Europe, Kamau is a seasoned factual content producer. Njendu, on the other hand, is an award-winning film director based in Los Angeles, California.
"I am sitting here crying because as of today I am beyond honored to say I am a new member of The Academy opening the email eight hours before my birthday. This little girl who came from Mombasa to be a director in Hollywood is a member of the academy," Njendu said in a reaction to the news.
As members, Kamau and Njendu will enjoy the privilege of voting across categories at the Academy Awards. This move is part of the Academy's efforts to push for diversity and wider representation, following backlash over the high number of white nominees in the 2016 Academy Awards.
Other Kenyans who are members of the academy include Lupita Nyong'o, Wanuri Kahiu, and Judy Kibinge.
