Meet 22-year-old Ashunganya Precious, breaking boundaries in documentary filmmaking

Originating from Mmockmbie village, Lebialem division of the South West region, 22 years old, Ashunganya N.N Precious is already leaving an indelible mark in the world of filmmaking.

From a young age, her passion for storytelling was evident, as she embarked on writing her book titled “The Battle of Michaela” at the tender age of 8.

Though she never got to print it, her inclination towards the arts was undeniable. “I felt a deep inclination to do the arts,” she recalled while talking to CNA. “I composed songs, and in these, I told stories.”

However, societal pressures and familial expectations nudged her towards a different path – the sciences. Despite her scientific proficiency, Ashunganya’s heart remained tethered to her artistic ambitions.

“It was my mother’s dream that I become a medical doctor,” she acknowledged. Yet, beneath the surface, her desire for storytelling and to enact change persistently bubbled in her.

Throughout her journey, Ashunganya never lost sight of her passion for advocacy and environmental stewardship. Her commitment to a cleaner planet and climate activism grew stronger with each passing year.

“I have that crazy sight of me that looks forward to changing the world,” she affirmed. “The whole idea of leaving places better than I find them resonated with me.”

“Just like storytelling is about meeting with people, talking with them, and getting inspired to tell a story that will, in turn, inspire others,” she reflected.

In 2023, Ashunganya made a pivotal decision to pursue her true passion, transitioning from fiction filmmaking to conservation filmmaking. The bold step marked the beginning of her journey toward utilizing film as a tool for advocacy and change.

“I was convinced I wanted to spend the rest of my life telling stories that hopefully could make the world better,” she asserted.

Her dedication and talent were quickly recognized when she won her first production grant at the Cameroon International Film Festival and became a Nature, Environment, and Wildlife (NEWF) Fellow.

Now, as a student at the University of Buea, Department of Performing and Visual Arts, Ashunganya’s commitment to storytelling shines brightly. Her recent accolade for the Best Documentary at CAMIFF for her episode of “Ocean Stories” indeed solidified her position as a rising star in the realm of filmmaking.

“Being recognized for my work at such a young age is truly humbling. But it also fuels my determination to continue creating impactful stories,” she remarked.