Academy Award-winning actor and filmmaker Lupita Nyong'o has been announced as the president of the international jury for the upcoming 74th Berlin Film Festival. This makes her the second consecutive female to preside over the prestigious film festival, following in the footsteps of fellow actor Kristen Stewart.

Mariëtte Rissenbeek and Carlo Chatrian, the directors of the Berlinale, expressed their admiration for Nyong'o, stating that she embodies the qualities they appreciate in cinema, such as versatility, addressing different audiences, and consistency in her memorable characters. Nyong'o gained global recognition with her breakthrough role in "12 Years a Slave," for which she won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. She has also been honored with various accolades, including the Screen Actors Guild Award, the Critics' Choice Award, the Independent Spirit Award, and the NAACP Image Award.

Expressing her gratitude, Nyong'o stated that she is deeply honored to serve as the president of the international jury and is looking forward to celebrating and recognizing the outstanding work of filmmakers from around the world.

In addition to her acting achievements, Nyong'o has ventured into executive producing and is involved in a diverse range of projects. She recently produced the Sudanese film "Goodbye Julia," directed by Mohamed Kordofani, which has been selected to compete in the international feature film category at the Oscars. Nyong'o is also known for her activism and is currently preparing a podcast that focuses on non-fictional storytelling from the African diaspora.

Nyong'o's involvement with the Berlin Film Festival comes at a significant time as it marks the last edition under the leadership of Rissenbeek and Chatrian. Both directors will step down after this year's festival as their respective mandates end. The announcement of the festival's future director is expected to be made during a press conference in Berlin tomorrow.

The 74th Berlin Film Festival promises to showcase the best of international cinema, with Nyong'o's expertise and discerning eye as the head of the international jury. Film enthusiasts and industry professionals eagerly anticipate the festival's lineup, which will undoubtedly feature a wide range of compelling and impactful films from around the world.