JESCA Christopher Mtoi’s trajectory in the entertainment industry is a testament to her extraordinary talent and relentless dedication.

Her journey began in the vibrant world of school theater, where she first demonstrated her potential.

 This early experience laid the foundation for her subsequent achievements, including her notable performances at Makumbusho Theater with the R.I.O.T Organization.

 At Makumbusho, Jesca honed her skills across multiple disciplines, becoming adept as a dancer, singer, and actress.

In 2020, Jesca’s performance in "NINA NDOTO KUBWA" marked a significant milestone in her career. Despite the challenging political climate of the time, her portrayal was met with critical acclaim, further establishing her reputation in the industry.

Recently, Jesca has garnered significant recognition for her lead role in "The Midnight Bride." Her portrayal in this film earned her a Best Actress nomination at the SOTAMBE Zambia International Film Festival.

 Additionally, the film itself has achieved remarkable success, winning the Best International Award at the 13th Kalasha Film and TV Awards and the Best East African Film at the Uganda Film Festival.

Jesca’s journey from school theater to international accolades not only highlights her raw talent but also underscores her unwavering commitment to her craft. Her continued success marks her as a rising star with a promising future in the global entertainment landscape.

In the dimly lit halls of the Zanzibar International Film Festival, the excitement was palpable. 

Held in the historic Old Fort of Stone Town, the festival was a vibrant tapestry of colors and cultures, showcasing rich narratives from the Dhow Countries and beyond.

Among the numerous films competing for attention was The Midnight Bride, a film that had captivated audiences with its intricate portrayal of cultural traditions and gender dynamics.

The story behind The Midnight Bride was as compelling as the film itself. Doreen, the visionary behind the project, had been inspired by a powerful short film from Nigerian filmmaker Tunde Kilani during her studies. 

The short film, which dealt with the contentious sheet ceremony—a tradition where a man’s refusal to marry a woman due to her lack of virginity was central—left a profound impression on Doreen.

 Additionally, she was intrigued by the concept of twins, inspired by the 2000s Bongo hit The Lost Twins.

 This blend of cultural critique and suspense formed the backbone of her narrative.

Casting the twin characters proved challenging, but Doreen and her director, Clerick Morgan, discovered remarkable talent in Jesca C. Mtoi. Jesca, cast to portray both twins, embraced the challenge with exceptional dedication. She immersed herself in the dual roles, practicing relentlessly to differentiate between the twins’ personalities.

 Her commitment was evident in her performance, which was crucial in bringing the film’s complex characters to life.

As the festival buzzed with anticipation during the awards announcement, Jesca’s performance had not gone unnoticed. 

Her portrayal of the twins was described as nuanced and powerful, earning her a well-deserved nomination for Best Actress (Southern Africa) at the SOTAMBE Zambia International Film Festival. 

This recognition was a testament to her hard work and the creative vision of the entire team.

On the night of the ZIFF 2024 awards ceremony, the atmosphere was electric. As the Best Actress award was announced, the room fell silent with eager anticipation. When Jesca Mtoi’s name was called, the crowd erupted in applause.

 Her win was a celebration not only of her talent but also of the innovative storytelling represented by The Midnight Bride.

Taking the stage to accept her award, Jesca thanked the entire team—Doreen, Clerick Morgan, and the talented cinematographer Kenneth Msanjila. She spoke about the importance of addressing cultural practices through film and how The Midnight Bride had sparked meaningful conversations about tradition and gender. Her speech resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the film's impact.

The victory was not just a personal achievement for Jesca but also a triumph for the film and its entire creative team. The Midnight Bride had woven a complex narrative that questioned cultural norms while captivating audiences with its powerful performances and compelling storytelling. 

The win at ZIFF was a celebration of artistic excellence and the ongoing dialogue about tradition and modernity in contemporary cinema.