We’re thrilled to share that on 30th May, we officially wrapped up the Netflix Creative Equity Scholarship Fund (CESF) – East Africa with a heartwarming celebration alongside our remarkable scholars, and key players in the film and television industry.


This moment marked the culmination of a transformative two-year journey, a journey that began in 2021 when Netflix appointed HEVA as the implementing partner and fund administrator for the CESF program. Our mission was clear: to unlock opportunities for emerging creatives from East Africa by providing access to formal film and television education through scholarships, mentorship, and holistic support.

Now, as we look back on this incredible chapter, we are proud to report a 100% success rate among our scholars. Every single student in the program successfully completed their academic journey, a testament to their talent, dedication, and resilience.

It has been our honor to walk alongside these future storytellers, and we are endlessly proud of the vibrant, diverse voices that are now ready to shape the film and television landscape in East Africa and beyond.


As we close this chapter, we look forward with hope and excitement for what’s to come, for the stories that will be told, the careers that will blossom, and the creative communities that will grow stronger.

Here’s to more stories, more impact, and more success.

Celebrating and empowering women in the creative sector is something that is ingrained in HEVA's ethos.

So when an opportunity came to showcase this particular pillar during International Women's Month back in March, HEVA Fund Managing Partner, Wakiuru Njuguna chose to instead weave a more compelling story, highlighting the issues of equity, safety, financing and visibility challenges women face daily - not only during women's month. 


In an insightful opinion piece shared on the Daily Nation on 4th June, Wakiuru spoke about the full potential of women creatives in the industry and why HEVA partners with programs like OtaandSanarato not only build the capacity of young women in the CCIs but to support their creative endeavors and build confidence and community.

To read the full story, click HERE.