Gershom Sikaala’s journey from Christian television to global storytelling is a testament to his visionary approach to media and innovation. Starting his career by producing and appearing on networks like TBN, Cross TV, and Go TV, Sikaala recognized the need to transcend traditional religious programming. This realization led to the creation of Authentic Television (ATV), a Netflix-style global network dedicated to curating and broadcasting inspirational content across various platforms. ATV serves as a digital sanctuary for narratives of perseverance, healing, and hope, welcoming storytellers from all backgrounds.
Sikaala’s voice has reached global audiences through his work as a voice actor in “Faith Like Potatoes,” the first British-African faith-based film. He also lent his voice to a character in “SpongeBob SquarePants,” though he declined onscreen credit at the time.
Innovations in Technology and Sustainability
In 2020, amidst growing concerns about digital privacy during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sikaala founded PureKonect—an AI-powered, encrypted communication platform designed as a safer and more ethically-driven alternative to Facebook. He also launched PyoorCall, a unique tech service focused on empowering people to communicate freely and securely.
His commitment to innovation extends to sustainability. In Zambia, Sikaala initiated Campikes, the world’s first bamboo bicycle project, which gained international acclaim and was featured by CNN, BBC News, and other prominent media outlets.
Championing Global Peace and Humanitarian Efforts
Sikaala’s activism began early. In 2006, fresh out of high school, he served as a peace ambassador during the FIFA World Cup in Germany, working with soccer stars, UN officials, and FIFA president Sepp Blatter to promote reconciliation and global unity. In 2010, he led a groundbreaking event in South Africa where white and Black citizens washed each other’s feet and exchanged 150,000 pairs of Jordan shoes, symbolizing healing and reconciliation.
Through the Global Challenge Initiative, a nonprofit he founded, Sikaala supports underfunded organizations worldwide, providing aid for clean water projects, education funding, and anti-homelessness campaigns. He has spoken at Fortune 500 conferences alongside leadership icons like John C. Maxwell, spreading messages of significance, purpose, and transformational impact.
Authentic Global Film Festival: A New Platform for Inspirational Storytelling
Sikaala’s latest endeavor, the Authentic Global Film Festival, is set to take place on June 12-13, 2025, at the Fine Arts Theatre in Beverly Hills. This inaugural event aims to celebrate exceptional films and storytelling that inspire change and promote the triumph of the human spirit. With over 3,500 submissions from more than 170 countries, the festival will showcase a curated selection of films across various genres, including fiction, documentary, and experimental projects. The festival offers awards in multiple categories, such as Peace, Faith-Based, Human Connection, and Environmental, with winners receiving accolades ranging from the Authentic Global Film Award Statue to mentorship awards and cash stipends. Attendees can look forward to workshops, panels, and discussions featuring Hollywood industry experts, providing opportunities for networking and engaging conversations on important social issues.
Gershom Sikaala’s multifaceted career reflects his unwavering commitment to using media and technology as tools for positive change. Through his innovative ventures and humanitarian efforts, he continues to inspire and empower individuals worldwide.
Get tickets to the festival: https://authenticfilmawards.com/
