The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended invitations to 534 new members this year, including a standout group of African filmmakers joining the Oscars Academy — a move that continues the Academy’s push toward a more diverse, inclusive, and international film community.
This year’s class is one of the most globally representative yet: 55% of invitees are based outside the United States, coming from 60 countries and territories. It’s also a step forward in equity, with 45% identifying as part of underrepresented racial or ethnic groups, and 41% as women. The Academy’s goal is clear — to better reflect the global nature of storytelling and the people who shape it.
“We are thrilled to welcome this esteemed class of artists, technologists, and professionals into the Academy,” said CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang in a joint statement. “They represent the creativity and global spirit that define today’s film industry. Their voices will help shape the Academy’s future in meaningful ways.”
If all invitations are accepted, total membership will rise to 11,120, including 10,143 voting members.
That would bring the Academy’s overall makeup to about 35% women, 22% from underrepresented communities, and 21% international — a significant step from where things stood a decade ago.
African Filmmakers Join the Oscars Academy in a Landmark Moment
One of the most exciting developments in this year’s list is the number of African filmmakers joining the Oscars Academy — a reflection of the continent’s growing impact on global cinema and a long-overdue recognition of its cultural power.
These newly invited members aren’t just part of a trend; they’ve been shaping stories that resonate far beyond their home countries.
- Bunmi Ademilola Fashina (Nigeria): Known for her meticulous costume design in films like Mami Wata and Light in the Dark, Fashina’s work elevates African narratives with rich visual texture.
- Ré Olunuga (Nigeria): A composer whose scores — including Drift and Girl — blend emotion and atmosphere, Olunuga is helping put African film music on the map.
- John Kani (South Africa): A legendary actor and playwright, Kani’s contributions to both African theatre and Hollywood (Black Panther, Murder Mystery) have made him a global force.
- Mamadou Dia (Senegal): Director of Nafi’s Father and Demba, Dia’s work dives deep into West African life and identity with quiet power.
- Habib Attia (Tunisia): A veteran producer behind films like The Man Who Sold His Skin and Four Daughters, Attia has helped elevate North African stories to international acclaim.
These artists aren’t just joining an institution — they’re helping reshape it. Their inclusion is a recognition of Africa’s place in the evolving story of cinema, and of the creative power rooted across the continent.
A Global Class with Local Impact
Beyond Africa, the 2025 class features a wide range of talent from across disciplines — from actors and directors to costume designers, editors, and studio executives. The Academy’s 19 branches are each gaining fresh voices with distinct points of view.
Actors Branch: Some of Hollywood’s most talked-about talents are joining this year. Oscar winners Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain) and Mikey Madison (Anora) are among them, along with nominees like Ariana Grande (Wicked) and Jeremy Strong (The Apprentice). Also joining are fan favorites like Dave Bautista, Gillian Anderson, Jodie Comer, and Aubrey Plaza.
Directors Branch: This group welcomes rising and established voices alike — including Jane Schoenbrun (I Saw the TV Glow), Halina Reijn (Babygirl), and Mike Flanagan (Doctor Sleep). Some directors, like Coralie Fargeat (The Substance) and Brady Corbet (The Brutalist), were invited to multiple branches — a nod to their range and impact.
Behind the Scenes Talent: Cinematographer Lol Crawley (White Noise), costume designer Kate Forbes (Fair Play), and sound expert Douglas Parker (Dune: Part Two) were all recognized for their contributions to how films look, feel, and sound. Visual effects supervisor Stephen James was also honored — a key figure in the success of Dune: Part Two.
Writers, Producers, and Executives: Screenwriters Jeymes Samuel (The Harder They Fall) and Payal Kapadia (All We Imagine as Light) join the Writers branch, while producers like Dylan Clark (The Batman) and Habib Attia (mentioned above) join the Producers branch. On the executive side, leaders like Tom Quinn (CEO of Neon) and Ravi Ahuja (President of Sony Pictures) bring industry know-how to the table.
A Membership That Mirrors the Movies We Watch
This year’s class is a reminder that film is no longer defined by geography or limited to a few dominant markets. The Academy is opening its doors to reflect where the culture is — global, diverse, and multi-layered.
The growing presence of African filmmakers in the Oscars Academy isn’t just a milestone — it’s momentum. These storytellers are shaping what cinema looks and sounds like in 2025 and beyond. Their stories matter. And now, their voices have a vote.
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