Celebrated Kenyan television director and co-founder of Insignia Productions Grace Kahaki has been selected as a juror for the 2026 International Emmy Awards.
In a significant boost for African representation in one of television’s most prestigious global judging processes, the appointment places Kahaki among an international cohort of industry professionals charged with evaluating some of the world’s best non-US television programming.
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences draws jurors from across continents to help identify excellence in drama, documentary, comedy and other categories.
In a statement reflecting on the role, Kahaki said she was honoured by the selection: “As a Kenyan film director, it means a great deal to have my voice recognised and included among industry professionals shaping conversations around excellence in global television,” she said.
“Thank you to the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for this meaningful experience.”
Kahaki, who has more than 15 years’ experience in Kenya’s television and film sector, co-founded Insignia Productions with business partner Philippe Bresson. The company has built a reputation for high-quality drama and other content, recently earning multiple accolades, including recognition at the 2026 Kalasha Awards, the country’s leading film and television honours.
Her selection adds to a small but growing cohort of Kenyan film professionals invited to judge at the International Emmys. She joins documentary filmmaker King Muriuki, also serving in the 2026 cycle, while actor Paul Ogola previously contributed as a juror in 2022.
The International Emmys honour outstanding television made outside the United States.
Participation as a juror is regarded as a mark of professional esteem, reflecting the academy’s confidence in the invited experts’ critical judgment and industry insight.
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