Derek Ugochukwu is an IFTA-nominated writer/director named one of the Screen International Rising Stars of Ireland and listed in the Irish Times' "50 People to Watch in 2025."​ 

 

His written short film, To All My Darlings, was shortlisted for the 2021 BAFTA Student Awards, won the Audience Award for Best Short at the 2021 Dublin International Film Festival, and received the Spirit of the Festival Award at Catalyst International Film Festival.

 

Derek's directorial short, You're Not Home, funded by Film in Limerick ENGINE Scheme, premiered at the 34th Galway Film Fleadh with a nomination for the Bingham Ray New Talent Award. It was nominated for an IFTA for Best Live-Action Short and screened at prestigious Oscar and BAFTA qualifying festivals, including Sitges, SXSW, Encounters, and Foyle. 

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In 2023, he wrote and directed the short film Pediment, funded by Screen Ireland as part of the FOCUS scheme. Produced by Harp Media Films, the film won the Best Short Screenplay Award at the 3rd Catalyst International Film Festival and premiered at the 35th Galway Film Festival.

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His recent short, Nay Day, produced by Samson Films through the DLR Frames Scheme, premiered at the 36th Galway Film Fleadh and earned Discovery Award nominations for lead actress Florence Adebambo and cinematographer Albert Hooi at DIFF 2025.​

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Drawing from his diaspora experience, Derek's work explores themes of identity and belonging through horror, thriller, and gothic drama genres. He is represented by Nicole Schivardi at United Agents (UK).