Showbiz

Exploring the cinematic world of Leila Djansi: A trailblazer in film

Published

11 months ago

April 2, 2025

GhanaPlus

Leila Afua Djansi is a renowned Ghanaian-American filmmaker whose work has garnered international acclaim.

Born on July 17, 1981, Leila’s journey in the film industry is marked by her dedication to storytelling and her commitment to addressing social issues through her films.

Here are some quick facts about the life and career of Leila Djansi.

Early Life and Education

Full Name: Leila Afua Djansi.

Birthdate: July 17, 1981.

Birthplace: Bangalore, India.

Family Background: Her father was a pilot, and her mother was a senior nursing officer. Leila grew up in both India and Ghana.

Education: Leila attended Kabore Primary and JSS, and Mawuli School for her primary, junior, and secondary education in Ho, Volta Region, Ghana. She began her film education at the National Film and Television School in Ghana and later continued her studies at the Savannah College of Art and Design in the United States on an artistic honors scholarship.

Career Beginnings and Achievements

Early Career: Leila started her career in the Ghana film industry at the age of 19 with the Ghana Film Company. Her first script, “Babina,” was made into a movie by producer Akwetey Kanyi.

Directorial Debut: Her directorial debut, “I Sing of a Well” (2009), received 11 nominations at the Africa Movie Academy Awards and won the Special Jury Award for Overall Best Film.

Advocacy Films: Leila is known for her advocacy films, such as “Sinking Sands” (2010), which supports the Say No to Violence Against Women Campaign for UNiFEM Ghana.

International Recognition: Her film “Ties That Bind” (2011) won Best Diaspora Film at the San Diego Black Film Festival and was an official selection at AFI’s New African Films Festival in 20122.

Recent Works: Leila’s recent works include “Like Cotton Twines” (2016), which explores modern-day slavery in Ghana, and the TV series “40 and Single” (2018), which won the Audience Award at the Los Angeles Film Festival.

Personal Life and Legacy

Production Company: Leila established Turning Point Pictures, an independent production company focused on social issue films.

Awards and Recognition: Leila has received numerous awards and nominations for her work, including the BAFTA/LA Choice Award at the Pan African Film Festival and the WorldFest Platinum Award for her film “Grass Between My Lips”.

Leila Djansi’s journey from a young scriptwriter in Ghana to an internationally acclaimed filmmaker is truly inspiring.