about
Rooted in Nigeria, dreaming globally
Chavala Yaduma is an award-winning filmmaker, artist, and founder of Vala Films, a production company dedicated to empowering creative voices and telling stories that matter.
As an advocacy filmmaker, Chavala uses the power of visual storytelling to challenge injustice, amplify marginalized voices, and inspire collective action. Her work often explores themes of womanhood, resilience, and environmental and social justice, reflecting her commitment to creating films that serve as both art and activism.
Through her documentaries and narrative films, she captures deeply human stories that transcend borders — from young girls redefining their future through dance to communities confronting inequality and climate change. Her storytelling approach is intimate, empathetic, and rooted in authenticity, making her one of the distinctive voices in contemporary African cinema.
Beyond filmmaking, Chavala is passionate about nurturing the next generation of storytellers, using her platform to advocate for representation, creativity, and social impact through the arts.
10+
Years crafting stories
37
Films & campaigns
12
Cities collaborated
40+
Emerging crews mentored
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Creativity
Using film and art to tell powerful, human stories.
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Community
Building spaces that nurture young storytellers and collaboration.
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Empowerment
Advocating for women and amplifying underrepresented voices.
timeline
Chavala's evolving practice
2019
Founded Vala Films
Driven by a desire to tell authentic African stories and help young creatives build their portfolios, I founded Vala Films, a production company rooted in collaboration, storytelling, and social impact.
2021
Amplifying Voices Through Advocacy & Education
I began working closely with NGOs and schools to teach storytelling and filmmaking as tools for advocacy, leading workshops on climate change, justice, and gender equality, merging film, education, and activism.
2023
Released Award-Winning Documentary
My documentary won the UN Women IP Story Award and received a film grant, marking an important turning point in my journey as an advocacy filmmaker using cinema to highlight women’s stories.