Posted by Independent Shorts Awards proudly named “Rise”, written and directed by Jessica J. Rowlands, as Best Short of February 2026. The 22-minute drama delivers a powerful and deeply human coming-of-age story set in Zimbabwe, where resilience, mentorship, and friendship emerge from the most difficult circumstances.
Following a remarkable festival run that included its historic premiere at the Tribeca Festival — where it became the first Zimbabwean film ever selected by the festival — Rise continues to reach audiences internationally.
A Boy Searching for Strength
At the heart of the film is a charismatic young boy growing up on a rubbish dump, navigating a world that has abandoned him. Determined to find safety and strength, he sets out to convince a reclusive boxing coach to train him.
What begins as a search for protection slowly evolves into a profound bond between two people from very different stages of life who are both searching for belonging.
The story unfolds with emotional honesty, exploring how mentorship can emerge in the most unexpected places, and how small acts of trust can reshape the future of a child.
Inspired by a True Story
The film draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Tobias Mupfuti, who grew up on the streets of Victoria Falls before eventually founding a boxing gym that now helps support vulnerable children in his community. Inspired by this true story, Rowlands crafts a film that feels both intimate and authentic, capturing not only the hardships faced by many children in Zimbabwe but also the resilience and hope that can grow in the most unlikely places.
Through this personal connection, Rise transforms a sports narrative into something far more profound: a story about human connection, dignity, and the possibility of transformation.
A Filmmaker Bridging Two Worlds
Rowlands herself brings an unusual path to filmmaking. Raised between UK and Zimbabwe, she initially pursued a career in law, completing two law degrees focused on international human rights before moving to Los Angeles to follow her passion for storytelling. While studying screenwriting at UCLA, she became the first person to win the prestigious UCLA Screenwriting Award two years in a row, in both the feature and television categories.
With Rise, her directorial debut, Rowlands reveals a confident cinematic voice drawn to emotionally rich stories about connection, identity, and belonging.
Powerful Performances at the Heart of the Film
Anchoring the film is an extraordinary performance by young actor Sikhanyiso Ngwenya, whose natural presence and emotional depth bring remarkable authenticity to the story. Opposite him, Zimbabwean actor Tongayi Chirisa delivers a compelling portrayal of the reluctant boxing coach whose guarded exterior slowly softens through mentorship and trust.
Together, their relationship forms the emotional backbone of the film, transforming a gritty boxing narrative into a tender exploration of vulnerability and human connection.
Zimbabwe on Screen
Produced on a $50,000 budget and shot entirely in Zimbabwe with a local cast and crew, Rise offers a rare cinematic window into the country’s culture, landscapes, and talent.
As Rowlands describes it, the film is “a tender, platonic love story dressed up as an edgy boxing movie,” exploring male intimacy and emotional vulnerability in a world that often suppresses both.
A Contender for the Year’s Top Honor
With its striking authenticity, emotional resonance, and powerful performances, Rise stands as one of the most memorable films of the season. Its recognition as Best Short of February 2026 at Independent Shorts Awards positions the film as a strong contender for the Best Short of the Year honors at the upcoming Independent Shorts Awards Annual Event next September at Regal LA Live in Los Angeles.
With Rise, Jessica J. Rowlands announces herself as a filmmaker to watch, one whose stories are rooted in empathy, authenticity, and the belief that cinema can illuminate lives often left unseen.
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