Nigeria, South Africa, Tunisia Others Win Big At CIMFF 2025 Mobile Filmmaking Award, Toronto

The Canada International Mobile Film Festival (CIMFF) concluded its 2025 edition in grand style at the TIFF Lightbox, Toronto, celebrating the creativity, innovation, and vision of filmmakers redefining storytelling through mobile technology.

This year’s festival, themed “Honouring Visionary Storytellers”, drew remarkable global participation with 166 film submissions from across continents. Following a rigorous selection process, 50 films were shortlisted, resulting in 30 nominations across 10 major award categories.

The highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of the official winners, whose works demonstrated the artistic and technical potential of mobile filmmaking in addressing social issues, personal stories, and diverse human experiences.

Official Winners – CIMFF 2025

Best Documentary Film: Between Planes– Tunisia | Directed by Med Amine Elkadhi

Best Editing: Amanzi (Water)– South Africa | Directed by Lindani M. Msibi

Best Social Impact Film: My Own Private Pilgrimage – Canada | Directed by Paul James Perrier

Best Experimental Film: The List – U.S.A | Directed by Lex Mahal Parker

Best Fiction Drama: The Mark– Nigeria | Directed by Charles Mmaduka

Best Cinematography: Rootless – Canada | Directed by Leslie Gabriela Ortiz

Audience Choice Award: Breaking the Silence– Nigeria | Directed by Adio James Oluwapelumi

Best Mobile Film (Overall): Rootless – Canada | Directed by Leslie Gabriela Ortiz

Best Comedy: Corper’s Journey – Nigeria | Directed by Rehwa-Oma Chikere

Best Actor: Lilibeth Rivas (Rootless) – Canada

The 2025 edition underscored the transformative role of mobile filmmaking in today’s creative landscape. With smartphones becoming increasingly advanced, the festival highlighted how accessibility and innovation are empowering emerging filmmakers worldwide.

Culled from CIMFF website.

According to F.Clay Ejeh, the Dean and Organiser of CIMFF, the event was designed to “celebrate the power of simplicity and the creativity that thrives when barriers to entry are removed.”