The Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF) has officially appointed Aba Arthur as its Diaspora Ambassador, marking a significant step in strengthening global diaspora engagement and advancing African cinema on the international stage.

 Aba Arthur is widely admired for her representation of African identity, cultural excellence, and global presence.

 Her appointment reflects BSIFF’s ongoing commitment to building meaningful bridges between African creatives on the continent and those across the diaspora, while expanding access, visibility, and opportunity for African stories worldwide. 

As Diaspora Ambassador, Aba Arthur will champion African cinema internationally, engage diaspora communities, support filmmaker development, and help amplify BSIFF’s mission to bring cinema closer to the people through year-round programming, community cinema initiatives, and international collaborations.

 Speaking on her appointment, Aba Arthur said: “When the roots of your soul are deep, you don’t fear the wind; it becomes the force that carries your work into the world.” Her words reflect the spirit of BSIFF’s vision — one rooted in heritage, resilience, and the global movement of African stories. Commenting on the appointment, BSIFF Founder Juliet Yaa Asantewaa Asante noted that Aba Arthur’s voice, presence, and cultural grounding make her a natural ambassador as the festival expands its global footprint.

 This appointment comes as BSIFF prepares for its 2026 edition, which will take place in Kumasi, in Ghana’s Asante Region, a historic cultural hub that reflects the festival’s commitment to celebrating African heritage, creativity, and storytelling from the heart of the continent. 

BSIFF continues to grow its impact through initiatives that include filmmaker support, children’s programming, mental health advocacy for creatives, and new community-based cinema experiences. 

The appointment of a Diaspora Ambassador further reinforces the festival’s role as a cultural connector between Africa and its global communities.