We’re proud to share that the MPI and BET Original film Kemba has been nominated for the 2025 NAACP Image Awards, with director Kelley Kali in contention for Outstanding Director in a Television Movie, Documentary, or Special. This recognition celebrates Kelley’s exceptional visual storytelling, the profound impact of Kemba, and the NAACP Image Awards’ mission to honor outstanding achievements and performances of people of color in arts, entertainment, and culture.

Inspired by the true story of Kemba Smith, Kemba stars Nesta Cooper (Apple TV’s See) in the titular role. The film tells the story of Kemba, a sheltered college student who falls for a man with a dangerous double life. When she discovers that her boyfriend, Khalif, is a drug kingpin, her world unravels. Khalif becomes abusive, manipulating Kemba into ignoring his criminal activities. Despite never handling or dealing drugs, Kemba finds herself caught in the crosshairs of the government’s “war on drugs” and is handed a shocking sentence for her boyfriend’s crimes. 

The film is available to stream exclusively on BET+. Click here to start your free seven-day trial on the BET+ platform! You can also learn how you can host a screening of Kemba in your community at KembaMovie.com.