Herrana Addisu is an award-winning film director, multidisciplinary artist, and social impact strategist passionate about using storytelling to drive systemic change. Raised in Ethiopia, her work is rooted in her family’s migration journey and lifelong commitment to human rights. She is the founder of Chucha Studios, a creative production company dedicated to bridging art and advocacy.
Her debut film, The River, is a tribute to Ethiopian culture and the resilience of women, highlighting global issues such as water accessibility and gender-based violence. The film has screened internationally in London, Amsterdam, New York, and Los Angeles, and was funded by SheaMoisture and Tina Knowles.
Beyond film, Herrana has led impactful campaigns, including efforts to end forced marriage in New York and to advance legislation against forced labor. With six years of experience working within the UN system, she has contributed to global initiatives focused on Women, Peace, and Security, particularly supporting women in conflict-affected areas. Her advocacy is grounded in advancing equity through storytelling and policy. She holds a Master’s degree in Political Science with a concentration in Human Rights and International Law.
Her work has been featured in Essence, Forbes, InStyle, Business Wire, and New York Magazine, and she continues to engage in projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), using art and media to inspire global action. In 2024, She was named as part of the Dazed 100 list, recognizing her as one of the most influential and innovative voices shaping youth culture today
