The MTV Staying Alive Foundation (SAF) has announced the production of MTV Shuga Mashariki, ahead of its highly anticipated return in May 2025.

This season is part of a landmark collaboration with Shujaaz Inc., aimed at challenging gender norms and their impact on the outcomes of young people, as part of the Surround Sound Kenya Programme. 

MTV Shuga Mashariki’s directorial team features three celebrated Kenya directors: June Ndinya, Mkaiwawi Mwakaba and Likarion Wainaina.

Known for their groundbreaking work in Kenyan film and television, these directors bring a wealth of experience, creativity and passion to the production.

Under their visionary leadership, MTV Shuga Mashariki is set to deliver an unforgettable season that not only entertains but also sparks critical conversations about the lives of young people across Kenya and East Africa. 

June Ndinya is celebrated for her dynamic storytelling in hit teen dramas like ‘Flash Squad’ and ‘Prefects’, earning her a reputation as a powerhouse of bold, authentic narratives.

Mkaiwawi Mwakaba, co-founder of the African Female Filmmakers Collective, blends technical expertise with a passion for innovative storytelling, making significant strides in the Kenyan film industry, including co-directing the 2024 film ‘Makosa Ni Yangu’.

Likarion Wainaina, internationally acclaimed for his award-winning feature film ‘Supa Modo’, continues to redefine African cinema with fresh, impactful narratives that resonate globally.

Mitchelle Kimathi, Country Manager (Kenya), MTV Staying Alive Foundation says, “We are particularly proud to have two female directors on board, whose perspectives are crucial in shaping how themes affecting young women and girls are portrayed on the show. "

Adding "By having women engaged in shaping this creative process, we can authentically showcase societal issues and their impact, especially those that intersect with gender. Their contributions allow us to highlight these challenges with nuance, empathy and depth.”

MTV Shuga Mashariki will be produced by Reuben Odanga in collaboration with the award-winning Kenyan production company, Multan Production Limited.

Multan has produced notable series including ‘Mo Faya’, ‘Selina’, ‘Saida’, ‘Nafsi’ and ‘A Familiar Christmas’. 

 Celebrated Kenyan cinematographer Enos Olik ha also joined the production team.

Enos will play a key role in shaping the visual identity of the series, ensuring that the narratives are not only impactful but also visually unforgettable.

The filmmaker, educator and pioneer in East Africa’s entertainment industry, brings over a decade of expertise in crafting visually compelling narratives that resonate both locally and internationally.

Enos’s notable works include the anthology film ‘Anyango and the Ogre’ (2021), ‘Crime and Justice’ series (2021–2023), ‘Supa Modo’ (2018), ‘Famous’ musical drama (2021) and ‘The Christmas Run’ (2024).

Wame Jallow, Executive Director, MTV Staying Alive Foundation says, “MTV Shuga Mashariki is a celebration of Kenyan talent and storytelling, and we are thrilled to have a fully local team of directors leading the way."

The return of MTV Shuga Mashariki builds on the show’s legacy of discovering and nurturing fresh talent.

The new season is set to hit TV screens in May 2025.

This new chapter of MTV Shuga continues the show’s signature approach of authentic storytelling developed based on national-level youth-focused research, with production driven by Kenyan talent that reflects the authentic experiences and voices of the country’s youth.

It remains a powerful tool for addressing pressing social issues affecting young people.

By combining locally rooted narratives with global production standards, MTV Shuga Mashariki reinforces the power of storytelling to drive societal change, challenge restrictive gender norms, and inspire young people to take charge of their futures.