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The Star
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Young storytellers find their voice at the inaugural Connie Chiume International Youth Film Festival
The inaugural Connie Chiume International Youth Film Festival, held in tribute to the late acting legend Connie Chiume, has emerged as a powerful cultural intervention, uniting learners, educators, mentors, and emerging creatives from across the country. The festival took place over the weekend of July 18 and 19, 2025, at the Sibikwa Arts Centre in Benoni, marking a significant milestone in the quest to energise South Africa's creative economy for under-represented youth. Developed by the Connie Chiume Foundation, the festival laid the groundwork for education, access, and visibility, addressing the existing divide between aspiring filmmakers from townships and rural areas and the professional film industry. Over two jam-packed days, the festival offered an engaging hands-on program that equipped young talents, many of whom were first-generation storytellers, with essential skills, tools, and confidence to articulate their narratives on screen. Filmmaker Vuyo Novokoza, whose film was screened at the festival, told Saturday Star how meaningful it was for him to present his work in such a collaborative setting. 'It was an incredible honour to showcase my work among such inspiring talent. One of the most notable takeaways for me was the spirit of collaboration. From the workshops to the conversations with industry veterans, it was clear that storytelling is not a solo pursuit but a communal experience,' he said. Novokoza found the experience of sharing a film addressing real South African issues particularly powerful, as it fostered significant discussions about youth and accountability. 'The festival reaffirmed my purpose and reignited my creative drive. Beyond exposure, it allowed me to present a film rooted in a real South African issue, one I felt needed to be seen by the future holders of this country: the youth. Sharing it in that space opened up meaningful conversations and showed young people how powerful their voices can be when used as tools for change,' he added. Missy Ngamlana, a writer and producer who also attended the festival, said, 'The festival's legacy, carried through the name Connie Chiume, deeply inspired me. It presented an incredible opportunity to share a story about mental health awareness with a new audience, especially in a region where my film had not yet reached. It also reaffirmed the value of connecting with audiences who resonate with powerful social narratives.' Ngamlana described her vision for the South African film industry as one that would be inclusive, innovative, and globally respected, emphasising the need to create socially impactful work that shifts narratives and opens doors for under-represented voices. After the festival, Nongelo Chiume, spokesperson for the Connie Chiume Foundation and son of the late actress, expressed profound gratitude for the event's success. 'The weekend was a realisation of my mother's dream. We saw raw talent and untold stories, showing that young people simply need space and support to flourish. I'm immensely thankful to every partner, mentor, and participant who believed in our vision,' he remarked. Ntando Mabuza, a Board Member of the Foundation, explained the essence of event and shared, 'This festival is not just about honouring uMam' Connie's work; it's about ensuring that township and rural kids are not only dreaming of entering the industry but are actively stepping into it. This event left us with a pipeline of new voices and a supportive network.' The festival attracted over 600 participants, including high school learners, TVET students, community-based production groups, and educators involved in arts, media, and language development. Workshops also offered a diverse range of topics, including Scriptwriting for Social Impact and Smartphone Filmmaking, led by industry professionals keen to engage rather than lecture. The hands-on approach allowed learners to ask questions and pitch their ideas, fostering a collaborative spirit throughout the event. In the evenings, the festival featured special screenings, including archive footage from productions such as Zone 14 and Black Panther , combined with a heartfelt tribute to Connie Chiume's life and influence. Community members, students, and former co-stars took the stage to honour her legacy. [email protected] Saturday Star
The Star
2 days ago
- General
- The Star
Nelson Mandela Month initiative brings joy to underprivileged learners at Cosmo City Secondary
As part of the ongoing campaigns commemorating Nelson Mandela Month, The Star and Saturday Star have launched a heartwarming initiative, visiting schools to provide much-needed school shoes to underprivileged learners. This act of kindness has ignited joy and hope in the hearts of many, particularly at Cosmo City Secondary One, where the atmosphere was filled with laughter and gratitude from both teachers and students alike. Anna Mamabolo, an administrator who is deeply involved in supporting orphan learners in the area, voiced the challenges that many students endure daily. 'Cosmo City as a whole is in the middle of Honeydew, Kysands, and Lion Park, so our underprivileged children use buses to come to school. Some of them do not have parents; they live with their grandparents. Some stay alone. So we have a list that we write, especially for food. We try to find sponsors for food and also give them food. We also need sponsors for veggies to give them. Even other important things such as sanitary towels and cosmetics.' Mamabolo also highlighted the dire need for assistance beyond just food. 'This is important to us because we are parents. We are teachers, we are parents, we are social workers, we are priests, and we are everything. So when you see a child struggling, you feel like this could be my child in the same position, who does not have food in class or at home. For instance, last week I found a sponsor for spectacles, so I have a doctor that helps me, Dr. Tebogo. Then I deal with him for free. He checks up on them, so I have 10 that will be given to them next week. So before term two I'll have another twelve to help them.' Mamabolo's efforts, echoed by the support from brands like Toughees and Bata Children's Program, underscore the importance of community engagement in fostering resilience among these young learners. 'I've reached out to various companies for support. Some are willing, but many do not respond. We desperately need ongoing assistance,' she concluded, her tone a mix of hope and determination. Many learners vividly shared their excitement upon receiving their new shoes, a gesture that has a profound impact on their school experience. Kidetlweatsi Rankoloane, a young girl with ambitions of becoming a police officer, beamed with joy and couldn't contain her happiness. 'I am so excited. I can't even express how I feel. My mother is going to be thrilled when I get home with my shoes,' she said, reflecting the sense of pride. Another student, Phenyo Mathe, also expressed her gratitude, revealing that she had been eagerly anticipating this moment. 'I've been waiting for months to get new shoes because of the struggles back home,' said Mathe, who had endured teasing from classmates about her previous footwear. 'Children in this school sometimes make fun of others. Yesterday they joked about how my shoes looked and even posted a picture on Facebook,' she said. [email protected] Saturday Star
The Star
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
From talent search to stand-up success: Sifiso Nene preps for his one-man show
Multi-award-winning comedian Sifiso Nene is on the cusp of another milestone in his blossoming career as he prepares to take the stage for his much-anticipated one-man show, Because Of Success , at the Windmill Casino's Conference Centre on August 1, 2025. Known for his ability to weave captivating narratives from ordinary stories, Nene has firmly established himself as a fresh voice in South African comedy. Originally from Durban, his journey in the entertainment industry began in earnest after he moved to Johannesburg in 2006, aiming to become a scriptwriter for the well-known comedy show, the Pure Monate Show . However, his talent for storytelling was quickly recognised, and he transitioned into stand-up comedy, where he flourished. Nene recalls a turning point in his career when he participated in the reality competition show So You Think You're Funny! hosted by David Kau. 'That show changed my life and introduced me to the whole country. Now the Laugh Africa show has rebranded me and introduced me to new audiences. The journey has opened up a lot of doors, such as performing at different significant events, festivals and appearances on TV. All these things added value to my brand, which is why I can do my tour today ,' he shared with Saturday Star . The comedian has enjoyed considerable success since then, performing at various significant events and earning a slew of accolades, including the prestigious Audience Choice Award at the second annual South African Comics Choice Awards. In 2022, Nene's engaging narrative style garnered him viral fame with his show Baby Mama Drama 2, t ackling the often sensitive topic of co-parenting with comedic grace, he explained, 'I never expected to write a second installment since I believed I had gone through all the possible baby mama drama in my first show six years ago. However, the pandemic added more elements to my story, and I decided to vent in the best way I know how: on stage.' Nene explains that his latest show draws inspiration from audience interactions with his previous comedy special, Laugh Africa , aired on Showmax. 'The title was a catchy line that they remembered from the content that I delivered,' he noted. With this performance, he aims not only to entertain but also to offer audiences a fresh perspective on life through his unique lens of humour. A testament to his growing influence, his recently garnered the Winners' Choice Award at the April 2025 Comics Choice Comedy Awards, a recognition bestowed by previous award winners. 'It puts my name on the map and in greater spaces, so I honestly appreciate it,' he expressed, reflecting on his journey thus far. ' I love what I do. I strive to get better each time. That is what fuels me. To those who want to break into the industry must come. The pie is big enough for all of us.' [email protected] Saturday Star
IOL News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
From talent search to stand-up success: Sifiso Nene preps for his one-man show
Multi-award-winning comedian Sifiso Nene as he prepares for his new one-man show, "Because Of Success." Multi-award-winning comedian Sifiso Nene as he prepares for his new one-man show, "Because Of Success." Multi-award-winning comedian Sifiso Nene is on the cusp of another milestone in his blossoming career as he prepares to take the stage for his much-anticipated one-man show, Because Of Success, at the Windmill Casino's Conference Centre on August 1, 2025. Known for his ability to weave captivating narratives from ordinary stories, Nene has firmly established himself as a fresh voice in South African comedy. Originally from Durban, his journey in the entertainment industry began in earnest after he moved to Johannesburg in 2006, aiming to become a scriptwriter for the well-known comedy show, the Pure Monate Show. However, his talent for storytelling was quickly recognised, and he transitioned into stand-up comedy, where he flourished. Nene recalls a turning point in his career when he participated in the reality competition show So You Think You're Funny! hosted by David Kau. 'That show changed my life and introduced me to the whole country. Now the Laugh Africa show has rebranded me and introduced me to new audiences. The journey has opened up a lot of doors, such as performing at different significant events, festivals and appearances on TV. All these things added value to my brand, which is why I can do my tour today,' he shared with Saturday Star. The comedian has enjoyed considerable success since then, performing at various significant events and earning a slew of accolades, including the prestigious Audience Choice Award at the second annual South African Comics Choice Awards. In 2022, Nene's engaging narrative style garnered him viral fame with his show Baby Mama Drama 2, tackling the often sensitive topic of co-parenting with comedic grace, he explained, 'I never expected to write a second installment since I believed I had gone through all the possible baby mama drama in my first show six years ago. However, the pandemic added more elements to my story, and I decided to vent in the best way I know how: on stage.' Nene explains that his latest show draws inspiration from audience interactions with his previous comedy special, Laugh Africa, aired on Showmax. 'The title was a catchy line that they remembered from the content that I delivered,' he noted. With this performance, he aims not only to entertain but also to offer audiences a fresh perspective on life through his unique lens of humour. A testament to his growing influence, his recently garnered the Winners' Choice Award at the April 2025 Comics Choice Comedy Awards, a recognition bestowed by previous award winners. 'It puts my name on the map and in greater spaces, so I honestly appreciate it,' he expressed, reflecting on his journey thus far. 'I love what I do. I strive to get better each time. That is what fuels me. To those who want to break into the industry must come. The pie is big enough for all of us.' Saturday Star
The Star
22-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Lihle Lamola on building a brand that embraces identity and purpose
Entrepreneur and founder of Freckle Eyewear, Lihle Lamola, is celebrating a significant milestone, 10 years of building a luxury brand that champions authenticity, purpose, and bold innovation. As Lamola reflects on her journey, she shares insights into the origins of her business, the challenges that shaped her, and the values that continue to guide brand into the future. Speaking to Saturday Star , she also opened up the lessons she's learnt, and how staying rooted in her vision has enabled the brand to thrive, even through adversity. How did your journey of entrepreneurship start, and how has it evolved over the years? My entrepreneurial journey began a decade ago when I made the bold decision to leave the corporate world to pursue my passion in an uncharted territory. With a background in business development and further studies in financial and business management, I was well equipped to take the leap. That foundational background gave me the strategic insight, financial discipline, and customer service ethic needed to build a unique luxury eyewear brand — and that's how Freckle Eyewear was born. Describe some of the difficulties you have faced and the things that have enabled you to continue. One of the early challenges was rapid expansion. After launching Freckle Eyewear in 2015, we experienced fast growth and began opening multiple branches and diversifying into new industries. What I didn't fully grasp at the time was how aggressive scaling can strain cash flow. Some of those decisions were hard and costly lessons. I learnt that steady growth does not mean stagnation; it's strategic precision. In 2020, like many businesses, we faced our toughest challenge yet; Freckle Eyewear had to shut down for 6 months at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. With no sales during that time, we had to be extremely prudent with our limited resources. Resilience and adaptability helped us survive and emerge even stronger. As you continue to dominate the female entrepreneurial space, what are some of the lessons you have learnt? I have learnt the importance of staying true to my values. Trends may come and go, but your vision and integrity will keep you steady through the toughest seasons. It may sound like a cliché, but always remember why you started. Also, never feel intimidated in a boardroom full of male counterparts. Know your business, own your space, and back it up with strategy, leadership, and innovation. Embrace technology, be future-forward, and compete boldly, locally and globally. What inspired Freckle Eyewear to be created, and how has the company expanded over time? I've always been drawn to fashion, and I've followed international trends for years. When I started my entrepreneurial journey, it felt natural to gravitate toward an industry I love and understand. Growing up, I was often teased for my freckles, but instead of hiding them, I decided to embrace them. I wanted to create a luxury brand that resonates with authenticity, uniqueness and rarity, and that's how Freckle Eyewear was born. Today, through a strong omnichannel presence and strategic brand collaborations, we've expanded our reach and cultivated a loyal, fashion-savvy customer base. What do you intend to achieve with your brand and journey? I want Freckle Eyewear to be a gateway, a channel that gives aspirational and luxury consumers access to global, high-quality eyewear and offers luxury experiences that are defined by world-class customer service. Beyond the brand, I am passionate about empowering and mentoring the youth. [email protected] Saturday Star
