Latest news with #FilmMonth
IOL News
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Heritage, creativity and excellence shine at KZN Film and TV Awards
The cast of Disaster Holiday accepts the award as the film steals the show at the Simon 'Mabhunu' Sabela Awards. Image: Supplied A movie about a dad taking his family to Durban - Disaster Holiday - took centre stage when film and television industry players gathered at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre on Saturday, July 19, for the Simon 'Mabhunu' Sabela KZN Film & TV Awards hosted by the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA). The movie scooped the prestigious Best Feature Film award, in addition to winning in all three other categories it was nominated - Best Pan African Film, Best Production Design (Kagiso Malefane) and Best Use of KwaZulu-Natal as a Film Location (Burnt Onion Productions). This year's theme - 'Africa's Giants of Storytelling: From Piers to Pages' - captured the spirit of a night rooted in heritage, creativity and excellence, with awards being presented in 25 categories. The red carpet, hosted by Khaya Dladla, was awash with traditional attire, bold reds and sensational gowns, with guests playing up to the theme of 'dress as a giant of African storytelling'. There were some wise words shared by those who came to heap glory on their colleagues in the creative sector. Poet Gcinamasiko Mhlophe told reporters that African storytelling had come a long way, and was finally being recognised. Jackie Motsepe, KZNTAFA COO, said that the calibre of entrants in this year's awards - in its 12th year - stood out. She attributed this to technological changes and the dedication of mentors who helped hone the skills of newcomers enlisted in the authority's internship programme, which takes in 30 trainees each year. Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, filmmaker Angus Gibson, pictured with Dr Sibusiso Ndebele, chairperson of the KZNTAFA board, Image: Supplied Image: Supplied 'The jury members have been here for a long time, and they noticed the quality has improved,' said Motsepe. 'They are making content through their own devices, and every single day, people in KwaZulu-Natal are working on productions; so we're seeing sharpened skills, whether in acting or script writing. 'We're proud to see KZN emerging as a strong player on the African and global film map. The Simon 'Mabhunu' Sabela Awards continue to honour excellence while driving the industry forward.' Beacon of possibility The Simon 'Mabhunu' Sabela Awards is the province's premier film event and forms part of Film Month's three pillars that also include the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF) and the Durban FilmMart. Dr Sibusiso Ndebele, KZNTAFA board chairperson, said Film Month 'gives structure to our aspirations and momentum to our progress, and is a beacon of what's possible when a province commits fully to economic growth through the creative arts and film'. The night belonged to Rethabile Ramaphakela, who accepted the Best Feature Film award for Disaster Holiday, which she wrote and directed. She told Daily News that the family romp movie had been trending on the Netflix top 5 in December and in the top 10 in the world. "To win Best Feature Film is insane. When you make a movie, you wonder, will people watch it - and then this happens, where a movie about KZN wins Best Feature Film in KZN. It is absolutely incredible! 'It's not just a win for us — it's a win for the entire team, for the storytellers behind the scenes, and for the province of KwaZulu-Natal, which gave us such a beautiful canvas to work on," she said. The movie was funded by KZNTAFA, which also funded five other projects that were nominated for awards. KZN shines In the television category, Kwenzokuhle Ngcobo took home Best Actor for his role in 'Scandal", while Nqobile Magwaza bagged Best Actress for her performance in "Smoke and Mirrors". In film, Ntando Mncube (Themba) and Sibongiseni Shezi (Umjolo: The Gone Girl) scooped the top acting awards. Legendary filmmaker, Angus Gibson, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the growth and depth of African storytelling; with groundbreaking work on productions such as "Yizo Yizo", "Shaka iLembe" and countless documentary features. Accepting the award, Gibson said: "For the last 12 years, with both 'Isibaya' and 'Shaka Ilembe', we have been immersed in a Zulu world; so it is from the KZN audience that we most want approval. This award is an affirmation that makes me very happy.' Mbuso Khoza beams as he accepts the Best Supporting Actor in Film award for his standout role in Msinga: The Calling, Image: Supplied Image: Supplied Ndebele told attendees there was more to the event than just recognising artistry, achievement and storytelling. "We are celebrating a vision for what the future of our province can look like when culture, economy and innovation intersect. "These awards carry the name of a true pioneer, Simon Mabhunu Sabela - a man whose legacy reaches far beyond performance. He was not just an actor or a filmmaker. He was a cultural bridge; an embodiment of possibility during times when our stories were either erased or sidelined," he said. Perhaps one of the most memorable moments of the evening was when Mbuso Khoza, who won Best Supporting Actor in Film for his part in Msinga The Calling took to the stage to sing a soulful and moving tribute as actors who had passed away in the past year were remembered. The audience was treated to energetic performances by amapiano outfit, Babalwa M, as well as DJ Merlon. Andile Zamokuhle Mtambo, winner of the Best Newcomer Actor award for his role in "Uzalo", said that just being nominated was enough. "It is the first time for me on this platform and it shows that the people of South Africa appreciate the work we do," he said. In a televised message, KZN MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Musa Zondi said: 'KwaZulu-Natal is a province rich in heritage and culture; from the rolling valleys to the shores of our beautiful coastline, our land is full of stories that reflect who we are. Our languages, our traditions, our history and our pride. The creative work we celebrate tonight keeps that spirit alive and thriving. 'As the KwaZulu-Natal government, we are committed to growing this sector because when we support the arts, we support jobs; we support innovation and tourism, and a deeper sense of who we are.'
IOL News
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
KZN braces for a bustling winter holiday and record-breaking Durban July
KZN gears for a bumper Durban July and winter holidays with an influx of domestic travellers expected to descend on the province this month. KwaZulu-Natal is set to experience an influx of domestic travellers this July, with the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) predicting a vibrant and bustling winter holiday season. A combination of warm winter weather and an array of cultural experiences is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the province, culminating in a series of hallmark events. 'July is celebrated as Film Month in KwaZulu-Natal,' stated Sibusiso Gumbi, interim CEO of KZNTAFA. 'The province plays host to the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), the Durban FilmMart (DFM), and the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards on July 19. These events not only draw global creatives and industry leaders but also reinforce KZN's reputation as a leading film and content production hub in Africa.' KZNTAFA anticipates a 12–15% increase in domestic arrivals for the winter season compared to 2024, estimating around R500 million in tourism-related contributions in July alone, supported by more than 70 000 visitors across key events and destinations. eThekwini Municipality is in full swing as it prepares for Africa's largest horseracing spectacle, the Hollywoodbets Durban July, happening at the Greyville Racecourse on Saturday. With expectations for approximately 50 000 visitors and hotel occupancy rates projected at 80%, the city's tourism and hospitality sector is poised for a significant boost. This year's event is themed around celebrating cultural heritage and diversity, which aligns with the province's rich, multifaceted identity. eThekwini Mayor Xaba said safety measures had been put in place to ensure the event and related activities occur seamlessly. 'Our law enforcement agencies have developed an integrated safety plan, supported by the private security industry. Visitors are guaranteed a safe stay in the City with high police visibility, particularly around the Greyville precinct and other strategic sites across the Municipality.' Xaba added that projections for the economic impact on eThekwini from the Durban July weekend were far-reaching. 'The direct spend is estimated at R278m, with a total of R700m contribution to the eThekwini GDP and a total number of 4 000 jobs to be created.' Gumbi added KZN's winter is mild and sunny, with coastal temperatures averaging 22–25 degrees celcius. 'While other provinces shiver, we shine, and this climate advantage ensures consistent visitor interest beyond traditional peak seasons. Our focus is very clear: keep domestic tourism growing.' Siyabonga Mazibuko, CEO of North Coast regional organisation Enterprise iLembe, said the current trends suggested 'not just a recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic years, but a growth'. 'The proximity of the North Coast's iLembe District to Durban positions the area perfectly to benefit from the spillover of visitors, especially those seeking a more relaxed, scenic and family-friendly environment after major events,' Mazibuko said. James Seymour, Managing Director of Cathkin Booking and Management Services, said that the Drakensberg region experienced an excellent Youth Day long weekend. 'Most of the resorts and accommodation venues ran virtually at full capacity. One of the reasons for this was the Hot Air Balloon Festival and the SA Championships held at Berg Air in the Central Drakensberg,' Seymour said. 'Tourists want wintery, snowy type experiences – log fires, scenes of snow on the peaks. Weekends are good, especially if there is a chance of snowfall on the peaks.' Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE), said they have had an incredible start to the winter season with the arrival of the Sardine Run. 'As one of our tourism calendar highlights, we have several Sardine Run events taking place, with the Sardine Festival bringing family-friendly activities to our beach from June 20 to July 20, and the first-ever Coastal Seafood Flavours Festival on July 26. The KZN South Coast boasts a wealth of outdoor experiences that make this a top destination.' BUSINESS REPORT
IOL News
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
KwaZulu-Natal's winter tourism surge
The 56th edition of the Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill is in full swing, transforming KwaDukuza into the ultimate winter escape until July 6. Image: Luke Patterson KwaZulu-Natal's warm winter weather and holiday and cultural experiences is set to drive a significant seasonal surge in visitors this July, with both tourism and film taking centre stage across the province. In addition to being a peak travel period, July is celebrated as Film Month in KwaZulu-Natal, as the province plays host to the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), the Durban FilmMart (DFM), and the prestigious Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards on July 19. These events draw global creatives, industry leaders and investors, firmly positioning KZN as a premier film and content production destination on the continent. The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) expects a 12–15% increase in domestic arrivals this winter compared to 2024, with an estimated R500 million in tourism-related contributions in July alone, supported by over 70,000 cumulative visitors across key events and destinations. 'We're seeing strong indicators that July is expected to deliver a substantial surge in domestic travel, thanks to the alignment of the school holidays, hallmark events and our temperate winter climate that remains a magnet for year-round tourism,' said Sibusiso Gumbi, Interim CEO of KZNTAFA. 'Our July calendar is a showcase of what KZN does best – culture, fashion, film, entertainment and hospitality.' Richard Fourie puts favourite Eight On Eighteen through its paces at the official Hollywoodbets Durban July Gallops on Thursday Image: Candiese Lenferna / Race Coast Good news for the industry The July school holidays, coupled with a raft of seasonal activities and mega events, have brought good news for KZN's tourism industry as holidaymakers, the film fraternity, fun lovers and adventure seekers head to KwaZulu-Natal, boosting hotel and B&B occupancy figures, increasing restaurant and shopping centre footfall counts. The first of the big iconic crowd-pulling events is the Hollywoodbets Durban July on the 5th, Africa's premier horse racing and fashion event, which is expected to attract more than 55,000 racegoers. The estimated direct tourism spend will be R150 million, with more than R350 million in overall economic impact, contributing to both GDP and job creation. At KZN Tourism and Film Authority's own hospitality marquee at the race, guests will enjoy an exclusive fashion installation curated by top KZN designers, presented in collaboration with leading fashion producers and cultural curators. All just in time for the forthcoming Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards on July 19, which honours excellence in the province's film and TV industry. Later in the month, the Dundee July (July 20), KZN's rural, cultural and horse-riding festival – is expected to attract more than 25,000 visitors to northern KZN, reinforcing cultural tourism and community-based economic development. 'These two events are critical tourism levers. They support local entrepreneurs, fashion designers, hospitality businesses and drive domestic traveller confidence in the province,' said Sibusiso Gumbi. Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied The positive forecast about an increase in KZN tourism numbers comes in the wake of the latest tourism figures from Stats SA, which spell good news for the hospitality sector. Figures show that the total income for the country's hospitality sector increased 9.8% in April 2025 compared to the same period last year. Climate advantage 'KZN's winter is mild and sunny, with coastal temperatures averaging 22–25 degrees C. While other provinces shiver, we shine, and this climate advantage ensures consistent visitor interest beyond traditional peak seasons,' Gumbi added. The expected boost to visitor numbers follows an intensified domestic tourism campaign by the Entity, which has leveraged travel trade partnerships, influencer marketing, and activation of cultural hubs. These ongoing winter-tailored campaigns target Gauteng, Eastern Cape and Free State markets, focusing on heritage, wellness, adventure and culinary tourism. 'Our focus is very clear: keep domestic tourism growing,' he said. 'We have pulled out all the stops to attract people to our province and those efforts look like they will pay off,' said Gumbi, 'There is so much going on that KZN is undoubtedly the place to be, particularly this winter.' Spill-over benefits in the North Coast The North Coast regional organisation – Enterprise iLembe Economic Development Agency – has added its voice to the upbeat forecast about the winter season, saying that current trends suggest 'not just a recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic years, but a growth'. The proximity of the North Coast's iLembe District to Durban positions the area perfectly to benefit from the spillover of visitors, especially those seeking a more relaxed, scenic and family-friendly environment after major events, said Siyabonga Mazibuko, the CEO of Enterprise iLembe. One of the most exciting developments this winter will be the Durban July Ballito Experience, hosted in uMhlali Country Club in KwaDukuza and Westbrook in partnership with the national Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. This activation is aligned to the Durban July excitement, creating investment networking experiences, fashion and lifestyle showcases, and possibilities of locations for film productions. The event has added a fresh dimension to the calendar and will attract new visitors to the region. There has also been strong interest in local markets, food festivals, and cultural showcases designed to complement the high visitor influx. There has been a marked increase in bookings across local hotels, B&Bs and self-catering units, particularly in hotspots like Ballito, Salt Rock and KwaDukuza. Both footfall and revenue are expected to be up this year compared to last winter. 'Restaurants and beachfront venues are reporting higher foot traffic and increased patronage. Tour operators and activity-based businesses such as hiking, quad biking and cultural experiences are also noting stronger demand compared to off-peak months,' said Mazibuko. 'It's clear the region is experiencing a seasonal surge.' Domestic tourism continues to be the cornerstone of the North Coast's winter season as visitors from Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the Free State are especially prominent. 'That being said, we are also seeing encouraging signs of international interest returning, particularly from SADC countries and niche markets such as Europe-based expats and digital nomads,' he added. Snow-capped the mountains at Rhino Peak, Drakensberg Gardens in Underberg. Image: File While some travellers opt for shorter, high-quality stays, there is growing demand for authentic experiences, including heritage tourism, adventure activities, culinary tours and cultural events. 'Enterprise iLembe is committed to sustaining this momentum through targeted campaigns, partnerships and ongoing tourism development efforts,' Mazibuko said. Winter in the Drakensberg The tourism industry over in the Central and Northern Drakensberg has already experienced positive winter trends. 'The region experienced an excellent Youth Day long weekend,' said James Seymour, Managing Director of Cathkin Booking and Management Services. 'Most of the resorts and accommodation venues ran virtually at full capacity. One of the reasons for this was the Hot Air Balloon Festival and the SA Championships held at Berg Air in the Central Drakensberg,' he explained. Asked about the type of experiences drawing visitors to the region during winter, he said: 'Tourists want wintery, snowy type experiences – log fires, scenes of snow on the peaks.''Weekends were good, especially if there is a chance of snowfall on the peaks.' Fishermen in Warner Beach net several crates of sardines. Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Newspapers Nature and Film shine on the South Coast On the KZN South Coast, nature has already been playing a key role in boosting holiday arrival figures. 'We have had an incredible start to our winter season with the arrival of the Sardine Run,' said Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). 'As one of our tourism calendar highlights, we have several Sardine Run events taking place, with the Sardine Festival bringing family-friendly activities to our beach from June 20 to July 20, and the first-ever Coastal Seafood Flavours Festival on July 26,' he continued. The Sardine Run has also attracted film crews, who are capturing this unique natural phenomenon alongside visitors enjoying boat rides, diving excursions and coastal adventures. 'The KZN South Coast boasts a wealth of outdoor experiences that make this a top destination, including having the highest number of Blue Flag beaches and tidal pools in the province,' Dr Sibiya said. 'Our two world-renowned dive sites at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks offer incredible underwater experiences, while the 11 immaculate golf courses and friendly clubhouses ensure every golfer has a great time away.' Township tours and hinterland excursions continue to attract those seeking unique, culturally rich experiences. Trails such as the Umzumbe River Trail, KwaNdwalane Adventure, AgriTours and the Mission Tourism Route showcase the area's natural beauty, history and hospitality. The launch of the Wellness Way Route has embraced the global wellness travel trend, while extreme adventure options like gorge-swinging, ziplining and abseiling offer high-adrenaline alternatives.
