OCTFME RECOGNIZES RICHIE KAMTCHOUM AS THE AUGUST 2026 FILMMAKER OF THE MONTH

(Washington, DC) - The award-winning DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) is proud to recognize Cameroonian American writer, director, and actor Richie Kamtchoum as the August 2026 Filmmaker of the Month. Born and raised in Washington, DC, Kamtchoum has rapidly emerged as a bold, multihyphenate storyteller whose work spans film, television, audio drama, and animation-bringing fresh, authentic narratives to audiences and elevating the region's creative voice.

Kamtchoum's creative journey began shortly after graduating from Longwood University, where he studied digital media and sharpened his craft through creative writing and video production coursework. His career first took shape in journalism at RVAMag before he transitioned into full-time production at Accelerate Change. Though he always had an eye for visual storytelling, it was the rise of acclaimed series like Atlanta and Insecure that crystallized his artistic direction and ignited his passion to create character-driven stories rooted in lived experience.

"Richie Kamtchoum reflects the creativity, drive, and cultural richness that make Washington, DC a thriving hub for storytellers. His dedication to crafting original narratives rooted in our region makes him an outstanding choice for Filmmaker of the Month," said Director of OCTFME and Film Commissioner LaToya Foster. "Richie's work embodies the spirit of independent filmmaking in DC-innovative, community-driven, and fearless. We are proud to champion his voice and celebrate the momentum he's building across multiple mediums."

Kamtchoum serves as writer, director, and lead actor in his breakout debut feature Bust!, a sports dramedy centered on a former professional basketball player fighting for a second chance. The film premiered at FilmFest DC, screened at ABFF and DC/DOX, and continues to be selected by festivals nationwide, underscoring Richie's emergence as a rising creative force.

His upcoming projects further expand his footprint across the industry. He is the co-writer and an actor in High Odyssey by Sherwyn Santos, scheduled to begin production later this year. He is also developing two additional feature films planned for 2027 and 2028. Beyond his live-action work, Kamtchoum produces and voices characters in the animated comedy The Matumbilas, showcasing his versatility and ability to build compelling worlds across genres.

"It's an honor to be recognized as the Filmmaker of the Month, as it represents the efforts myself and others have given to produce homegrown stories by homegrown talent, with the support of OCTFME," said Kamtchoum.

His growing body of work also includes MONDAZE, which he created and starred in; Night School, which he co-created and wrote; and Stolen Girls, which he wrote and directed; each reflecting themes of migration, resilience, memory, and cultural identity.

OCTFME continues to celebrate local creatives who shape the District's vibrant film and media landscape. Richie Kamtchoum's rising career and commitment to storytelling rooted in Washington, DC exemplify the mission of the Filmmaker of the Month program: recognizing the visionary artists who call DC home.

Audiences can connect with Richie and explore his work on Instagram (@richiepbm, @bustmovie), Twitter (@richiepbm), Tiktok (@Richiekam), and at www.richiekamtchoum.com.

Click HERE to catch Richie's exclusive DC Radio interview which aired on Friday, August 7, 2026 at 2:00 pm ET available on our SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify.

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About FILMMAKER OF THE MONTH
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) launched the "Filmmaker of the Month" initiative as a vehicle for highlighting the talents and creative contributions of filmmakers that make the District of Columbia their home. The "Filmmaker of the Month" initiative is part of OCTFME's mission to elevate the national and international profile of the District's talented filmmakers.

***If you know of a filmmaker that would make a great future "Filmmaker of the Month," please send OCTFME recommendations using this nomination form.

About OCTFME
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME), an award-winning District of Columbia Government agency, leads the city's extensive efforts to build and support a sustainable film, music, and entertainment creative economy and labor market. Additionally, OCTFME serves as the city's cable television service provider regulator and as the customer service hub for cable subscribers.

OCTFME's extensive portfolio includes:

• The District's government cable access channels District Council Channel (D.C.C), the District of Columbia Network (D.C.N), and the District Knowledge Network (DKN)
• D.C. Radio (96.3 HD4), OCTFME's owned and operated digital radio station, in partnership with Howard University's WHUR.
• District of Columbia Entertainment Network (D.C.E), OCTFME's 24-hour streaming platform available worldwide on ROKU, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV as well as iPhone and Android mobile devices (download the D.C.E Network App or at D.C.ENetwork.com).
• The handling of all of the District's filmmaker production needs including permits, city services, and logistical support, job placement assistance, workforce development and the D.C. Film, Television, and Entertainment Rebate Fund (D.C. Rebate Fund).
• Providing additional support to the creative community through the Creative Affairs Office (CAO) and Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents: 202Creates initiative. CAO showcases and preserves the District of Columbia's rich creative communities throughout all 8 Wards.

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