Black Star International Film Festival appoints first male Director
The Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF) has appointed Owusu Ansah Castro Sarpong as its new Festival Director. The new director is the first male to hold the position since its inception in 2016.
Castro Sarpong’s elevation to this leadership role is a recognition of nearly a decade of dedicated service to BSIFF. He takes over from Bentuma Philipa Arthur who successfully led the festival through some difficult moments.
A founding team member, he has contributed extensively to the festival’s growth and its increasing prominence within both the African and global film landscape. (Read Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF) celebrates 10th anniversary, announces global jury)
A seasoned professional in film and television, his credits include work as Assistant Director on the award-winning feature Silverain, Coordinating Producer for the Ghana shoot of Kunle Afolayan’s Aníkúlápó, and Production Lead on We2, a television series for ROK Nigeria.
His experience also spans reality television, having served as Ghanaian Producer for the hit Nigerian series, The Real Housewives of Lagos.
Castro is an alumnus of the University of Ghana and is currently pursuing further academic training at the University of Media Arts and Communication – Institute of Film and Television (UNIMAC-IFT), formerly the National Film and Television Institute (NAFTI).
Reflecting on his appointment, Castro stated: “This is a deeply personal and proud moment for me. I’ve grown alongside this festival, mentored by extraordinary women whose vision has shaped what BSIFF is today.
“To now be entrusted with leading BSIFF into its next chapter—especially during our 10th anniversary—is both humbling and inspiring. I invite filmmakers and creatives to continue engaging with this platform: submit your films, join the dialogue, and be part of this movement.”
Founded by renowned filmmaker and cultural advocate Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante, BSIFF was started with a bold commitment to advancing gender equity in film—beginning with women-led leadership at its core.
This deliberate approach has positioned BSIFF as a unique cultural institution that champions inclusion, collaboration, and African excellence in cinema.
Ms Asante said the initial decision to place women in key leadership roles had been both intentional and strategic, and it had produced powerful results.
“Our initial decision to place women in key leadership roles was both intentional and strategic—and it has yielded powerful results. Yet we also believe in inclusive leadership. Men and women alike have contributed significantly to this festival’s journey.
“Castro’s dedication, creative insight, and unwavering commitment make him the right person to lead BSIFF into its next decade. I am confident in his vision and capacity to elevate the festival even further.”
Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Black Star International Film Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for African storytelling and cross-cultural engagement.
As Ghana asserts its position on the global creative stage through the broader Black Star Experience, BSIFF reflects the transformative power of cinema to shape narratives, connect communities, and inspire future generations.
