Latest news with #SibusisoGumbi
IOL News
7 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
KwaZulu-Natal set to showcase tourism and film opportunities at TIFA 2025
Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied KwaZulu-Natal is poised to shine on the world stage when it hosts the much-anticipated Tourism Investment Forum Africa (TIFA) later this month in uMhlathuze. This prominent event aims to attract global investors, policymakers, and industry leaders, serving as a vital platform for unlocking investment opportunities within the province, particularly in its flourishing tourism and film sectors. The forum, to be staged in Richards Bay, promises to highlight KwaZulu-Natal's diverse appeal, characterised by breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a wealth of attractions ranging from the pristine coastline to the Drakensberg Mountains and historic battlefields. Sibusiso Gumbi, acting CEO of KZN Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA), said KZN was more than just a destination but a dynamic investment hub with untapped. 'TIFA 2025 is our chance to show the world that our province is not only a land of incredible natural and cultural wealth but also a smart, strategic place to invest,' Gumbi said. 'We are particularly excited to showcase the symbiotic relationship between our tourism and film industries, and how they can be leveraged to drive sustainable economic growth and community empowerment.' 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 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. Next Stay Close ✕ The Forum is expected to bring together a mix of key decision-makers, including local and international business leaders, government ministers, financial institutions, and private investors. 'By offering a unique platform to present market-ready tourism projects, the TIFA enables African destinations to secure investment, ensuring long-term economic success.' Jackie Motsepe, chief operating officer of KZNTAFA. said KZN came alive this July - not just through film, but across every corridor of the tourism economy. 'Film tourism is also gaining traction, with increased online search interest in the locations that have featured in award-winning productions like Disaster Holiday and Sent, which were funded by KZNTAFA.' Motsepe added that in July dozens of international location scouts, producers, and streamers, hosted by KZNTAFA, went on tours across the province throughout the month, affirming the region's status as a cinematic destination of choice. "From the Drakensberg plateaus to Durban's coastline, filmmakers were astonished at the range we offer. I am delighted to say that many left planning their next shoot - right here in KZN.' BUSINESS REPORT Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied
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
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Empowering Young Filmmakers and Tourism Entrepreneurs
Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied MUCH is being done to empower the next generation of filmmakers and tourism entrepreneurs by KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTFA), as well as by the industries themselves. Later this month, and again in August 2025, TV audiences will be able to see the work of emerging young local filmmakers who got their latest break thanks to KZNTFA's support. We funded two KZN-born filmmakers, Sthobile Hlophe and Nqanawe Shangase, to take part in the 2023-2024 National Film and Video Foundation's (NFVF) Youth Filmmaker Project. This is an annual, year-long discovery, training, and mentorship incubator by Sisanda Henna Films, a boutique film company, for the brightest film writing and directing talent in the country. As the film company explains, this is a transformative programme dedicated to previously disadvantaged youth with a mission to build, strengthen and nurture writer-directors, hone their skills at a practical level, produce quality films and go through an incubated career and skills-propelling programme. 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 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. Next Stay Close ✕ KwaZulu-Natal filmmaker Sthobile Hlophe production will air on national TV through an initiative driven by KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied Fresh young KZN talent Now, this fresh young local talent will be showcased when two new films by Hlophe and Shangase will premiere on SABC2 today and on August 3. 'The Moment In Between' written by Hlophe and Raihaanah Sayed who also directed it, will air first, while 'Quantum', written and directed by Shangase, will be screened in August. Both films are part of 'Little Africa', a groundbreaking drama series developed by executive producer Sisanda Henna. The stories of resilience and redemption told in the series are expected to eventually be screened to audiences worldwide. Film Fund KZNTFA also has a dedicated Film Fund, 30% of which is allocated to youth development initiatives. The Film Fund has a two-year youth-focused, KZN-only development and production project for up to 10 filmmakers a year. These young filmmakers are paired with industry experts to develop and produce a 60-minute film to be broadcast on a local platform. In addition to that, we also have a film bursary programme, which is strongly youth-focused (94%) and is spread over three years, with women making up 62% of the recipients. And there is an active district development project where brand-new filmmakers from outside the metros are provided with funding for the development of their projects. These have been carried out in iLembe, Mpophomeni and there is a project currently underway in uMzinyathi. KwaZulu-Natal filmmaker Nqanawe Shangase's production will air on national TV through an initiative driven by KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied Inspiring It is encouraging to note that the film industry experts say that young people in KZN are inspiring audiences and reshaping the future of the film and television industry. These individuals are agents of change, pushing beyond conventional methods and forcing traditional media to adapt. They are driving innovation and their fluency in digital trends and audience engagement strategies positions them as the industry's future leaders. Indeed, much of the talent that has been cultivated by Stained Glass itself has already risen to leadership positions across South Africa's film and television landscape. With some now working as directors, producers and writers, this is indeed proof that investment in youth development yields tangible, industry-shaping results. Enthusiastic The youth, of course, are passionate about creative storytelling and highly enthusiastic and eager to break into the industry, as Bonnie Sithebe of Durban Motion Pictures explains. 'They bring fresh energy, a willingness to learn and innovative perspectives,' she explains, while Nilesh Singh, spokesman for the internationally renowned Videovision Entertainment agrees, says young people introduce fresh ideas and innovation. This influence is evident in the content, direction and aesthetics of local productions. The biggest hurdle in the retention of young talent 'is the slow adaptation of traditional media structures to new creative waves''. Many young professional streamers, influencers and digital designers operate outside conventional frameworks and the industry needs to evolve and integrate these roles, says David Mukhwebo, the series creative director at Stained Glass TV. While AI and digital tools offer incredible efficiencies, they cannot replace the essence of human storytelling – and traditional craftsmanship like scriptwriting, cinematography, performance, remains the heart of storytelling. A dream Videovision Entertainment has hosted several apprentices over the years. The company works with NFVF to host learnerships and work experience opportunities through the Get On Set Mentorship Programme. The next step is tertiary studies with opportunities starting at intern level, then progressing to engagement on contract on a per project basis. Apprenticeship programmes The tourism industry itself has long played a vital role in providing opportunities for youth. Southern Sun hotels in Durban have an apprenticeship programme for students leaving school who are technically-minded and interested in a career in facilities management (maintenance). Samantha Croft, Operations Director for Southern Sun's KZN region explains: 'We have partnered with the George Campbell School of Technology and take on 7-10 students every year and rotate them among our hotels. 'During their 12-month internship, they are able to apply for any vacant position within the company.' One of the first students had grown within the organisation and now holds a management position. Two others hold supervisory positions and others are permanently employed. The five-star Oyster Box Hotel in uMhlanga, has three main initiatives for youth development: The Professional Cookery Learnership: The YES – Youth Employment Services – Programme: and CATHSSETA (Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality & Sport). The hotel took on 20 unemployed youth in 2024 for the 12-month Professional Cookery Learnership programme. On completion, 15 students walked away with a National Certificate (NQF Level 4) and five were permanently employed by the hotel: four as Commis Chefs with the other graduate being put on the Red Carnation Hotels management programme. The government-funded YES programme gives graduates a one-year internship within the company and the hotel currently has an HR and IT intern. It is currently recruiting for more chefs. Since 2023, the hotel has hosted 46 students to do their internship/work experience. Sixteen have been permanently employed by the Oyster Box and the rest have moved on to other positions both locally and internationally. These are interesting and innovative times and while there may be challenges, there are also some fascinating opportunities as the youth continue to remain top of our minds. Gumbi is the interim Chief Executive of KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. His views don't necessarily reflect those of the Sunday Tribune or Independent Media SUNDAY TRIBUNE
IOL News
06-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Experience the excitement: Innovations at the Comrades Marathon for runners and spectators
Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied Comrades Marathon runners and spectators could witness innovations along the route to make it a memorable, fun, and vibrant event, stated the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority on Friday. The economic spin-off from the Comrades Marathon Down Run, from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, on Sunday is expected to reach over R600 million for the host cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg, said Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, which has partnered with the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA). 'With all eyes on the race, we are hoping that it will inspire people, whether they watch it on the roadside or on their televisions, to choose KZN for their next holiday or attend one of our many sporting events that are hosted in our province,' he added. Gumbi said at least 1800 jobs were created because the CMA brings more visitors to the region than any other big international sporting event. 'We have everything a tourist could wish for: beautiful scenery, the beach, the bush, and the Berg, diverse attractions, including game reserves and safari experiences,' he said. 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. 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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. Next Stay Close ✕ Meanwhile, CMA General Manager, Alain Dalais, said 22,677 runners have qualified for the 2025 ultra-marathon – 20% of the field are women, and organisers are expecting at least 24,000 to start the race. 'With the route going through some suburbs, there will be 47 refreshment stations and several 'fun, vibey' activation points and spectator zones to support the runners,' Dalais said. The previous record for the Down Run was 19,047 runners set in 2018. The ultra-marathon has attracted 3,063 international runners: 1,282 from the rest of Africa and 1,781 from countries outside Africa. 'We expect those international athletes to bring around another 3,000 family, loved ones, and travelling companions with them; hence, some 6,000 international visitors will be coming to the province,' Dalais said. 'The street finish in Durban is another innovation this year, with one of the biggest bonuses for the runners being that they won't need to climb stairs after finishing, as has been the case in previous years.' Hotelier Brett Tungay, board chairman of the regional branch of the Federated Hospitality Association of Southern Africa (Fedhasa) said: 'Bearing in mind the overall trajectory of the year for KZN, there is a real sense of optimism in tourism circles. The hospitality industry was expecting positive tourism figures driven by the participation of international runners and the influx of domestic visitors from various regions of the country.' The eThekwini Municipality stated that the Cleansing and Solid Waste Unit is working full force, conducting a pre-Comrade's Marathon route clean-up. Teams are picking up litter, sweeping the street, and clearing illegal dumps to ensure the route is spotless. The Msunduzi Municipality indicated that it has completed all route preparations and is ready to welcome thousands of athletes and spectators to Pietermaritzburg. The Comrades Marathon, taking place on Sunday, is expected to attract thousands of athletes and spectators to the Durban shores. The race will be run from the City Hall in Pietermaritzburg to Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium. Image: Supplied
