Latest news with #KZNTAFA
IOL News
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
From obstacles to opportunities: the positive impact of AI on film-making
Young film-makers are being hailed for their use of technology in making movies like 'Disaster Holiday' which won four Simon 'Mabhunu' Sabela Awards this past weekend. Image: File Young film-makers and content creators are on an upward trajectory, thanks to advances in technology and artificial intelligence that have helped remove obstacles in their path. It is a sentiment shared by many, including Jackie Motsepe, COO of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, and legendary South African film-maker Angus Gibson, who was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at its Simon 'Mabhunu' Sabela gala function at the Durban International Convention Centre this past Saturday. Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, filmmaker Angus Gibson, pictured with Dr Sibusiso Ndebele, chairperson of the KZNTAFA board. Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Motsepe told "Independent Media Lifestyle" that the calibre of entrants in this year's awards - in its twelfth year - stands out, and she attributed this to technological advances and the dedication of mentors who have helped hone the skills of newcomers who are enlisted into the authority's internship programme, which takes in 30 trainees each year. "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," she said. Gibson, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the growth and depth of African storytelling and groundbreaking work on productions such as "Yizo Yizo", "Shaka iLembe" and countless documentary features, went a step further, saying that digital technology had democratised the industry. "I have a theory that digital media, the video camera you're using right now, has kind of democratised the process of film-making, it is no longer an elite thing," he said. Rethabile Ramaphakela and the cast of 'Disaster Holiday' accept the award for Best Feature Film at the Simon 'Mabhunu' Sabela Awards. Image: Supplied Rethabile Ramaphakela, who accepted the Best Feature Film Award for "Disaster Holiday", which she wrote and directed, added: "I definitely think technology has changed things. "When I was at film school, I didn't have a phone that had high-quality enough to make content. Even now, with TikTok, creatives are n making their own stories. "Technology has helped, but on the other side, we have AI coming in and we're not too sure what that means for jobs, so it is a little scary. "But what I always say is that the heart of a film can never be recreated by a computer or machine. Human beings make hearts, and they can't replicate that," she said. During a webinar on Wednesday, hosted by Russian media outlet Sputnik, its AI Project Head, Egor Arkhipov, made the point that video content production has been made so much faster through AI, freeing up creatives to spend more time on flexing their imagination instead of tedious research, rendering and editing. "When we look at the history of us as homo sapiens, there has always been shifts and technological advances that have neutralised certain types of work to be needless, and new types of jobs have opened up," he said, adding that AI creates opportunities for people to be more imaginative, while they leave the "heavy lifting" to artificial intelligence.
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
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Rani Sitaram: A Rising Star in South African Cinema
Rani Sitaram, the producer of Greytown Girl. Image: Supplied HAVING received two nominations at the 2025 Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards in the category of Best Supporting Actress – Film, Rani Sitaram, the producer of Greytown Girl, believes this further affirms her status as a creative force committed to impactful storytelling. Her latest project is not only making waves globally, but it has further cemented her reputation as a filmmaker dedicated to telling stories that matter. Funded by the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA), her journey exemplifies how targeted investment in local talent can produce content that resonates across continents. Greytown Girl has already garnered international acclaim, winning a string of awards. The film scooped Best Feature Film at the Los Angeles Movie and Music Awards, Best African Film at the 2025 Cannes Film Awards, with prestigious selections earned at the Nelson Mandela Children's Film Festival, the 30th International Human Rights Conference, as well as at festivals in Barcelona and New York. Yet despite this global recognition, Sitaram says that being nominated for a Simon Mabhunu Sabela Award holds a deeply personal significance. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Greytown Girl has already garnered international acclaim, winning a string of awards. Image: Supplied 'It's really heartwarming to be acknowledged by our home province and country,' she shares. Central to the success of Greytown Girl has been the support of KZNTAFA. For Sitaram, this backing was 'vital and invaluable,' enabling her to maintain high production values and build a story with strong local relevance and global appeal. The impact was not just financial. 'KZNTAFA has created a support structure around me,' she says. 'As an independent producer, this amazing 'holding space' allowed me to eliminate challenges and draw on the expertise of seasoned professionals.' Committed to developing the creative economy of her province, Sitaram ensured that more than 75% of the suppliers and service providers for the film were based in KwaZulu-Natal. Through her company, East Coast Media, which includes a fully accredited training institution, she has created opportunities for the youth and underrepresented communities, including the disability sector. As she continues to write, produce, and mentor from her KZN base, Sitaram is already working on new projects. Her advice for potential filmmakers is to: 'Start with a story that matters and stay rooted in your region.' Thanks to the catalytic support of KZNTAFA, Sitaram is not only raising the flag for KwaZulu-Natal's film sector but she is also proving that local stories, when authentically told, can find a place on the world stage. SUNDAY TRIBUNE
IOL News
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Lisa Pyanee's Cotton Dreams nominated for two Simon Mabhunu Awards
Film producer Lisa Pyanee Image: Supplied Lisa Pyanee's journey as an emerging filmmaker has been nothing short of extraordinary. The nomination of the film she produced, Cotton Dreams, for the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards for Best Production Design and Best Short Film is a significant milestone that makes a mark in South Africa's film industry. Cotton Dreams is an exploration of culture, family, and fashion rooted in KwaZulu-Natal's Indian community that was brought to life through the support of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA)'s Made for TV programme. Poster of Cotton Dreams, a film nominated in two categories for the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Pyanee says that being nominated for a Simon Sabela Award is 'deeply humbling' and a moment of recognition she never imagined when she first began developing the project. 'When you're in the thick of production, your only focus is on doing justice to the story. This nomination has reminded me that there's space for authentic voices like mine in the industry,' she says. The KZNTAFA funding, mentorship, and access to critical resources were instrumental in transforming Cotton Dreams from a script into a high-quality film now streaming internationally on Prime Video in the USA and UK. 'Without that support, the film would still be a file on my laptop. KZNTAFA believed in my vision when it was still an idea, and that made all the difference,' said Pyanee. The film is a celebration of KwaZulu-Natal's cultural richness, showcasing vibrant Durban locations, integrating fashion by local designers like Kireshen Chetty and Mandi Zuma, while weaving in music that speaks to the province's diverse identity. It had a strong developmental impact, employing more than 130 people including cast, crew, and interns, and offering hands-on experience for emerging creatives.
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
