Filmmaker | Visual Storyteller | Founder of Kura Productions

I’m a filmmaker, director, and storyteller based in Ethiopia, passionate about capturing truth, humanity, and impact through the lens of cinema. As the founder and CEO of Kura Productions, I’ve spent over a decade using film to elevate voices from East Africa—working across humanitarian, commercial, and narrative spaces to create visual content that resonates deeply.

My journey began with zero-budget storytelling. My short film “Lilith”, shot with limited resources, went on to receive three international award nominations, proving that vision always outweighs budget. That same vision continues to fuel everything I create—whether directing for NGOs in remote regions or crafting music videos for artists pushing cultural boundaries.

In 2024, I was honored to contribute to the BBC’s Live Aid 40 documentary, a global series revisiting the long-term impact of one of history’s most iconic humanitarian campaigns. Alongside this, I’ve led production for USAID’s Feed the Future program for two consecutive years, producing field documentaries that amplify stories of resilience and rural innovation.

My work with the World Bank has spanned media production for high-level summits in Addis Ababa, while my current focus includes an ambitious documentary exploring the untold political and emotional layers of Somaliland’s quest for international recognition.

Kirubel Hailemariam

camera studio set up

Work Experience

A SPEC-COMMERCIAL WE MADE FOR MARIUS WINE

🎬 BBC – Documentary Filmmaker for Live Aid 40
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Lilith – A Breakthrough Zero-Budget Film

Lilith is a no-budget short film written and directed by Kirubel Hailemariam that defied the odds and earned three international award nominations. Created with minimal resources but maximum creative vision, the film stood out for its bold storytelling, atmospheric visuals, and unique blend of myth and psychological depth.

🎬 USAID – Feed the Future Ethiopia
Cnn Logog bbc logo
Cnn Logog bbc logo

Commissioned to document stories of resilience for the global BBC Live Aid 40 anniversary project. The film explores the long-term impact of humanitarian aid in Ethiopia, crafted with cinematic sensitivity and deep cultural insight.

Served as the exclusive media production partner for two consecutive years for USAID’s flagship agricultural and food security initiative. Produced documentary films, short-form videos, and field photography highlighting farmer-led innovation, resilience, and gender inclusion.

red cinema chair

Notable Collaborations and Projects With Other Productions

"Kirubel Hailemariam has played key roles as First AC, Editor, and Creative Director, collaborating with acclaimed productions to craft impactful and visually stunning projects. Below are some of his standout works."

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woman wearing yellow long-sleeved dress under white clouds and blue sky during daytime

Kura Productions brought our vision to life with stunning visuals and compelling storytelling. Highly recommended!

A film crew captures a scene on an urban street. One person holds a clapperboard, while another operates a camera. A man wearing a straw hat and carrying a phone stands in the foreground. A child with a basket on a bicycle observes the scene. Buildings and parked cars line the background.
A film crew captures a scene on an urban street. One person holds a clapperboard, while another operates a camera. A man wearing a straw hat and carrying a phone stands in the foreground. A child with a basket on a bicycle observes the scene. Buildings and parked cars line the background.

Their professionalism and creativity exceeded our expectations. We couldn't be happier with the final product!

A dark and moody scene captures a film or photography set with crew members silhouetted against bright studio lights. They appear to be adjusting equipment and lighting setups, creating an atmosphere of focused activity. The scene is primarily lit by a large square panel light, illuminating parts of the set while casting deep shadows.
A dark and moody scene captures a film or photography set with crew members silhouetted against bright studio lights. They appear to be adjusting equipment and lighting setups, creating an atmosphere of focused activity. The scene is primarily lit by a large square panel light, illuminating parts of the set while casting deep shadows.
★★★★★
★★★★★
Creativity

Captivating films and media production services offered.

Quality

Vision

Email - kuraproductionbussiness@gmail.com

Phone - +251-934-969-383

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