Samuel Bazawule

Samuel Bazawule, known professionally as "Blitz", is a Visiting Professor in the MFA in Film Program at Vermont College of Fine Arts. Based in Brooklyn, New York, he is an acclaimed filmmaker and musician originally from Accra, Ghana.

His research and creative interests span Film, Music, African Cinema, Diaspora Studies, and Screenwriting. Bazawule's work consistently explores themes of identity, social justice, and African diaspora experiences through innovative narrative techniques and musical expression.

Bazawule's creative output demonstrates a cohesive focus on African narratives across film and music. His works like THE BURIAL OF KOJO (2019) and DIASPORADICAL TRILOGÌA (2016) establish him as a leading voice in contemporary African cinema, while albums such as Afropolitan Dreams (2014) showcase his musical exploration of diasporic identity. The recurring themes across his filmography and discography emphasize cultural authenticity, social commentary, and experimental storytelling.

His notable awards include:

• 2016 TED Fellow
• Vilcek Prize

Bazawule's work demonstrates exceptional artistic vision that bridges cinematic and musical traditions while addressing critical issues of representation and cultural identity within global contexts.