David MASANSO

The project leader

David Masanso is the founder and director of Crossroads digital multimedia Ltd. A graduate in 3D Animation from Trinity Saint David University of Wales, he has over 15 years' experience as an animator and animation trainer. He has directed and worked on several animation projects for non-governmental organizations, government and corporate television advertising. He has directed one animated short film and produced four animated short films which have won 8 awards.

As one of the pioneers of the animation industry in Uganda, he has trained over 250 animation students through apprenticeship projects that allowed them to develop their skills while earning a living.

Among other achievements: David co-founded Women in Animation Uganda; as well as Crossroads Kids Animation club, which organizes arts training programs for children. He has been a Discop expert and speaker (2018, South Africa) and a judge at the Kalasha International TV and Film Market in Kenya. He is also a trainer in animation workshops at different film festivals.

The company

Crossroads Digital Multimedia, is an award-winning animation studio, training school and production house with creative design rooted in the rich culture of African storytelling with untapped potential. Its current portfolio includes animated short films, educational content, television commercials, awareness content and documentaries combining live action and animation. Its mission is to form an artistic team capable of developing fun African stories in 3D. Skills building and inclusion are part of the DNA of Crossroads, which organizes numerous training courses and internships in animation, particularly targeting young people and women.

The studio benefits from local and international recognition, through the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African leaders, DISCOP (Discomics) Johannesburg, the Kalasha International Film Festival and Uganda Film Festival.

The development project

With Afrique Créative, Crossroads Digital Mutimedia pursues acceleration objectives. Among these, the company wants

Produce and broadcast Mukago, a new animated adventure of local African games where the fierce competition of four best friends leads to difficulties that children will have to overcome.
Promote the inclusion of marginalized groups within the animation team
Develop an innovative communications and marketing strategy to reach an audience of 5 million subscribers; and to interest various partners and advertisers.

Activities have already been carried out:

Moving the office: more spacious, this premises offers new opportunities
Advanced Computer Art Training Bootcamp: including workshops on animation and artificial intelligence led by Crossroads creative mentor Andrew Maximov
Production of the children's animated series, Mukago, completed

The impact

88
Facilitators trained since 2018

08
Mukago episodes in 2020

50%
women on the team

5%
of deaf people in the team

On video