Growing up, Chisomo Kawaga faced many challenges, including being underestimated due to stereotypical thinking. The Lilongwe-based professional storyteller, cinematographer and video editor said female creatives continue to be stereotyped despite their potential. “Girls and women are underestimated.
Early on in my journey, I was frustrated and angry at the world, questioning why women are not taken seriously. “But over time, I learned to channel that frustration into motivation. Now, I expect people to underestimate me and use it as fuel to exceed their expectations,” she says.
Chisomo adds that the experience has shaped her into a resilient, determined and confident individual. The 27-year-old says it has also taught her the value of persistence and self-belief. Chisomo is a creative director at Eluby Consulting.
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She is one of the country’s successful storytellers who has defied the odds of gender barriers to excel in the art. Over the years, Chisomo has participated in filmmaking, producing film, television and documentary projects on both the local and international scenes. DStv/MultiChoice projects such as Mpali Season 6 and 7, which is televised on Zambezi Magic and My Horror Love Story.
Chisomo has also contributed to Wild Hope Series (HHMI Tangled Bank Studios, USA). She was part of international conservation series two episodes Guano Gold which was filmed in Mozambique where she served as the director of photography and drone operator. And also Rhino Ops, shot in South Africa, where Chisomo worked as a camera assistant.
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