Mawuko Kuadzi, acclaimed CEO of MK Casting, has elevated Ghana’s film industry with his recent nomination in the 41st Casting Society of America Artios Awards for The Fisherman. The film was specifically nominated in the International Feature category alongside two exceptional others— Kokuho, casting by Japan’s Masunobu Motokawa and Sound of Falling, casting by Germany’s Karimah El-Giamal. This recognition, as announced by the Casting Society on 8 January 2026, sets Kuadzi apart as a global casting professional and amplifies the visibility of Africa’s creative ecosystem.
The Artios Awards have long been regarded as the Oscars for casting professionals, celebrating excellence and ingenuity in film, television, and theatre. Kuadzi’s nomination is particularly noteworthy as it follows his victory at the 40th Artios Awards for the NFL Super Bowl commercial, Born to Play. As the first Ghanaian member of the Casting Society, Kuadzi’s work continually bridges the gap between local talent and global productions. His portfolio includes high-profile projects such as Beasts of No Nation and Black Earth Rising.
Across the continent, The Fisherman has enjoyed notable success, having won Best Ghanaian Film—and multiple accolades—at the 2025 Regal Film Festival and Awards (REFFA). It has been noted that the film’s success at REFFA “showcases Ghana’s growing capability in producing films with international appeal.”
As earlier noted, Mawuko Kuadzi is not unfamiliar with recognition of this calibre due to his 40th Artios Award win. This earned him commendations from several representatives of heads of states for his work and commitment to advancing Africa’s film industry. The Nigerian High Commissioner, Ambassador Dayo Adeoye, recognized it as a “proud moment for Africa” whilst the National Film Authority of Ghana recognized his achievement as a significant step for the country’s creative industry. Meanwhile, Kuadzi is presently working on a forthcoming international TV series, Kismet, which will be filming in Nigeria from May to July of 2026.
The coming weeks hold exciting promise for Africa as winners for the 41st Artios Awards will be announced on 26 February 2026 during simultaneous invitation-only events at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles, The Edison Ballroom in New York and One Moorhouse Place in London. May history be made and may the stories of African creatives be carried farther.