Bakashimika.
International Photography Festival
Bakashimika.
International Photography Festival
Bakashimika [ba:ka:∫i:mi:ka:]
Bemba for: ‘Collective of Storytellers’
‘they will tell stories in the future’
The Bakashimika International Photography Festival is an annual photography festival which celebrates the
rich photographic community in Zambia and the Southern African region. The festival provides a platform for
emerging southern African photographers, who tell new and innovative African stories through photography and
lens-based art.
The Bakashimika International Photography Festival brings together the wealth of photographic practices in
Zambia and the region and raises awareness of the existing photographic talent.
The Bakashimika International Photography Festival recognises the lack of spaces for emerging photographic
artists to show their work and network with the global photographic industry.
The Bakashimika International Photography Festival gives a platform to the visual storytellers and their
contemporary stories found within the vibrant and visually exciting photographic arts community of Southern
African.
The Bakashimika International Photography Festival recognises the steady growth in local audience numbers
during photography events and aims to introduce photography to broader audiences in Southern Africa.
The Bakashimika International Photography Festival contributes to creative education and photographic
research in the region.
The Bakashimika International Photography Festival aims to be part of the international photography festival
circuit and attract international photographic experts and bring international audiences to Zambia.
Event Highlights
Bakashimika Festival: Grand Opening
12 June, 18:00–21:00
The festival officially opened with a joyful and energetic evening gathering. Artists, curators, and photography lovers came together to celebrate the start of Zambia’s first international photography festival. With music, conversation, and a vibrant atmosphere, the opening ceremony set the tone for a week of inspiring visual storytelling and artistic exchange.
Public Exhibition Viewing
13 June, 11:00–18:00
The public was invited to explore a diverse array of photographic works on display across the festival venue. The exhibitions showcased powerful visual narratives from across the continent and beyond, highlighting personal stories, cultural identity, and creative experimentation. Visitors engaged with contemporary African photography in an open, welcoming environment.
Satellite Exhibition: I’ll Be Your Mirror
Everyday Lusaka Gallery | 14 June, 12:00–17:00
This special satellite event brought together the archives of Alick Phiri and William Matlala in a powerful exhibition curated by Sana Ginwalla and Dr. Andrea Stultiens. The show explored memory, labor, and identity through striking black-and-white portraits and historical imagery. It also celebrated the launch of Lusaka Street, Phiri’s debut photo book.
Nikon Workshop – Session 1
14 June, 14:30–17:00
In partnership with Nikon, this session offered participants a practical dive into photography fundamentals. Topics included lighting setups, camera handling, post-processing, and visual storytelling. Attendees engaged in hands-on learning with real-time feedback from experts. Whether new to photography or refining their craft, participants left with new skills and creative confidence.
Nikon Workshop – Session 2
15 June, 13:00–16:00
This special session of the Nikon Workshop shifted focus to videography. Participants engaged with professional filmmakers and photographers to explore how to shoot, edit, and work professionally with video. The workshop covered practical tools for storytelling, lighting for motion, and career pathways in video production—especially for those navigating the creative industry in Africa.
Artist Talk: Towela Kams (Creative Connect)
15 June, 16:30–18:00
Towela Kams, founder of Creative Connect, delivered a thought-provoking artist talk reflecting on her ten years of work in Africa’s art industry. She offered practical advice on navigating art markets, building a sustainable career, and maintaining creative integrity. The talk included a Q&A, fostering open dialogue with Zambia’s next generation of photographers.
Professional Photography Round Table
16 June, 16:30–18:00
This round table featured photographers Jason Mulikita and Edwin Chibanga in conversation with moderator Kerstin Hacker. Together, they discussed professional photography in Zambia and beyond. Topics ranged from ethical storytelling to business challenges. Attendees gained insights into navigating the industry while staying rooted in personal and cultural authenticity.
Legacy Talk: Kenneth Bota in Conversation
17 June, 15:00–17:00
Renowned as one of Zambia’s earliest photographers, Kenneth Bota shared powerful reflections on building a career during a time when photography was not widely accepted. This intimate presentation traced his journey, from navigating social stigma to documenting Zambia’s evolving history. Attendees were inspired by his resilience, vision, and legacy.
Financial Literacy for Artists: Priscilla Mpundu
18 June, 16:30–17:30
This empowering workshop helped artists build financial confidence. Facilitator Priscilla Mpundu offered guidance on budgeting, pricing, taxes, and managing money as a creative. Attendees learned how to sustain their practice financially and navigate the business side of art. It was a much-needed session for artists working toward long-term career stability.
Exhibitions
Group Exhibition
