Industry Program

Lala Tuku

Topic: Creating Content with the SABC 

Summary: As the SABC we are on a mission to reinvigorate public broadcasting and reimagine how we entertain our audiences. Acquisition and hybrid funding models for storytelling and audiences of the future!

Time: 13:00

Date: 4 August 2023 | Friday

Lala Tuku is an award-winning multi hyphenated seasoned executive in the creative arts, communication, and marketing industry. Her passion for the arts dates over 2 decades. Tuku has extensive experience in the South African Theatre, Film and Television industry. She has seamlessly moved from stage, in front of the camera to behind the scenes. From acting, directing, research, funding, content development, producing and ultimately to broadcasting. Tuku has an intimate understanding of the local Arts, Film and Television Industry, strong business acumen and good communications skills and stakeholder management expertise. Tuku has gained international experience by participating in global TV and Creative Markets and is driven by impact. Tuku is currently the Head of Content for the national broadcaster (SABC), serves on the NFVF board and is Chairperson of African Rising International Film Festival. 

Desiree Tan

Topic: Commissioning Unscripted Content for M-Net Premium Channels

Summary: Exploring the world of unscripted content by highlighting a new era of reality TV, changes in format, content, and approach. What is M-Net Premium channels looking for?

Time: 13:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday

Desiree Tan has been a content professional for the last 8 years.  Her expertise includes the conceptualization, producing, coordinating, commissioning and management of content.  Her career has spanned across the journalism, radio, television production and broadcasting space.  She currently works as a Content Coordinator and Commissioning Editor for M-Net Premium channels within the unscripted team. She is currently commissioning shows like La’t Wiel, which prides itself in being South Africa’s oldest Afrikaans automotive show.

Quentin Krog

Topic: Pitching to Multichoice Studios

Summary: When pitching a concept to a Multichoice Channel or Platform, it’s crucial to craft a compelling and concise pitch. Here Quentin will discuss some best practices to help you create an impactful presentation.

Time: 13:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | August

Quentin has been a Commissioning Editor at the M-Net Content Hub since February of 2022. With a slate of 20+ local commissions currently on his portfolio he specialises in premium Afrikaans scripted content for kykNET and Showmax. Some of his latest titles include Magda Louw, Die Byl 5&6, Projek Dina 3, Hans Steek die Rubicon Oor, Trompoppie and the Silwerskermfees Short Films ’23 & ‘24.

Before working at the Content Hub, Quentin directed 90+ episodes of primetime TV and 4 feature films, having been involved in some of the most popular and beloved Afrikaans entertainment properties for the past 18 years; Vir die Voëls, Ballade vir ‘n Enkeling and Die Boekklub S1 to name a few. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Drama from Stellenbosch University in 2004.

Azania Muendane

Topic: Marketing Locations

Summary: A Valley is a Valley is a Valley, or is it really? If all Valleys in a perfect world were accessible what would differentiate the one you know from the others? It all comes down to telling the producer that the Valley you have access to is the one to go with and how do you do this? What promotional tools are available? What language do you use? And how can you also say, this Valley appeared in x Movie? Locations Africa Projects gives tips and tricks to position your location above all others.

Time: 11:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday My work is mainly to promote Africa as a content production destination. Through the work we do at Locations Africa Projects, we help build capacity, activating the knowledge economy of content production. We work to promote Africa’s diverse locations, our facilities for content production, our agile crew and induced services such as hospitality. With over 20 years of working in the film and entertainment industry, my personal goal is to ensure that this tidal wave of the world looking to Africa as the next content producing frontier is met with agile and capable services on the ground. Our experience cuts across film, TV, music, and live production.

Brent Leo- Smith

Topic: The benefits of virtual travel in tourism and conservation
Time: 14:00

Having grown up in the KwaZulu-Natal hinterland of South Africa, Brent Leo-Smith knew that a career in the bush was inevitable. He was home schooled at Phinda Game Reserve and, as a result, is a real “wild child.” He then tried his hand at studying law, but the bush called him back, resulting in six months in Zambia doing crocodile, significant game capture, and running game farms. Brent returned to his then home in Botswana and worked for his father at Kwando Safaris before moving to the Kruger National Park to take up a position as a guide at the Lebombo Concession. Later, he went to work at Londolozi Game Reserve as a guide and camp manager. In 2010, Brent began work in film production, both behind and in front of the camera, having featured on Animal Planet and Nat Geo Wild, where he presented over fifty episodes of the #SafariLive series. In 2019, he co-founded Painteddog TV, a technology-driven wildlife and conservation media company.

Dominic Taylor

Topic: Small Stories, Big Impact: Harnessing Adaptive Filmmaking

Summary: It is often the stories of ordinary people, doing extraordinary things that have the greatest effect. These stories are highly accessible and when told well, have the potential to elevate filmmakers and creatives alike – effectively these stories can serve as a gateway to showcasing talent, building a community, and sparking positive change within society. 

Time: 11:00

Date: 4 August 2023 | Friday

Dominic Taylor is a multifaceted filmmaker whose work ranges from short films and documentaries, to corporate and travel content. His recent short film, Sbonelo, won best documentary at the European Short Film Festival. Dominic has been with Beautiful News since its inception in 2016.  He has documented work across South Africa and abroad, showcasing inspiring stories of humanity and the natural world.

James Byrne

Topic for Industry Program: Film Tourism / Content Creation on the Run

Summary: Film Tourism – When you are advertising your tourism related offerings, did you know that these also speak to film producers and production companies?

Typically, when productions are shot on location, let’s say Mossel Bay, they would need to stay somewhere, eat, have their laundry done, and need entertainment.

Now let’s say that they chose to shoot on location at your venue, are you aware that there is a rate card that you can charge for that?

How do we start this conversation and how do you get exposure to this?

Time: 16:00

Date: 4 August 2023 | Friday

James Byrne is the co-founding Director of the International Tourism Film Festival Africa, as well as the publisher of the ITFFA handbook that sees global distribution across 52 countries, as well as an Intra-African readership.

He is also the founder of the Young Creatives Student Challenge as empowering the youth with tangible work opportunities is close to his heart.

James is passionate about film, tourism and nature and wants to see sustainable measures brought into these conversations.

International Tourism Film Festival Africa

The International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) honours all video content related to the tourism and travel industry.

Founded in 2019, by Caroline Ungersbock and James Byrne to honour and promote works with exceptional and innovative content created today on all continents and seen and used on various platforms.

TV ads, promotional films, video campaigns, videos for social media, video blogs, documentaries, reports and TV magazines related to the promotion of tourism destinations, products and services are invited to participate in this exclusive and unique festival on the African Continent.

ITFFA aims to contribute towards stimulating the development and growth of the national and African audio-visual industry and, at the same time, to give visibility and recognition to the work of many talented men and women and integrate the global creative community.

This year we are honored to have the ITFFA present the Nikon Youth Challenge (In partnership with Nikon) at GRIFF – an amazing opportunity for young creatives!

Janet Pillai

Topic: Tourism and Film

Summary: A discussion on the effect of film on tourism in South Africa.

Time: 14:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday

Janet Pillai is the CEO and Founder of Multilayer Trade Corporation, (MLT Corp) a company that offers a seamless vehicle hire, shuttle, and accommodation solution from inception to completion in the public, private corporate, tourist and maritime sectors.
Janet Pillai is active on the speaking circuit handling topics such as Transport, Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Oil and Gas and Women’s development and mentorship. Aside from her impressive cv, she is also a content creator and produces a podcast called Jetsetting with Janet.

JP Lieveaux

Topic: The Art of Location Scouting

Summary: In my hour slot I will explain what a location scout does, how they do it and what skill sets are required. I will also dip into how to translate a brief and photographic techniques requisite for acceptable location images. Location management and it’s relationship with location scouting and how they go hand in hand will also be discussed.

Some humerous and thought provoking incidents will be drawn from my past experience to bring a sense of fun to what I still find to be a most fantastic job, because you have the freedom to explore the beauty of our country and bring it to the world’s attention 

Time: 10:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | Thursday

JP started in film in 1998 as a p.a. after a year at AFDA in JHB… He towed toilets for 3 years before he started as a second assistant director and part time film camera loader in 2003. During this time, he also signed up with gallo images and had a number of photographs used for professional advertising purposes. He began location scouting in 2010 in JHB and, once back in Cape town in 2013, he began scouting locations almost exclusively for both direct and agent sourced clients. He has scouted hundreds of foreign and local commercials as well as 7 feature films and series most notably the local action movie Indemnity by Travis Taute of which he is most proud. 

Loren Pavitt

Topic: Natural Cinematic Wonders: Exploring CapeNature’s Stunning Locations

Summary: Lights, camera, action! Discover the breathtaking beauty of CapeNature’s filming locations at the GRIFF Film Fest. Immerse yourself in nature’s stunning landscapes and unlock the potential of captivating storytelling. From majestic mountains to pristine coastlines, CapeNature offers a diverse range of settings for your next film project. Join us as we delve into the art of filming in nature, exploring the unique encounters and endless possibilities it presents. Get inspired, connect with fellow filmmakers, and uncover the magic of capturing the essence of nature on the silver screen. Don’t miss this captivating session at GRIFF Film Fest!

Time: 11:00

Date: 4 August 2023 | Friday

Loren Pavitt is a highly skilled Marketing and Communications specialist known for her adeptness in navigating intricate challenges and devising strategic solutions. With an extensive network of industry connections, she excels at fostering collaboration towards shared objectives. Loren’s proactive leadership style and unwavering commitment to results make her an asset. As the driving force behind CapeNature’s strategic marketing of tourism activities, she assumes responsibility and accountability for enhancing the organization’s Revenue Generation, Public Perception, and Brand Image. Loren is a proud graduate of Cape Peninsula University of Technology, holding qualifications in Public Relations and Journalism.

Maggie Mutangiri

Topic: TAKE ADVANTAGE OF VIDEO CONTENT TO STAGE A
TOURISM COMEBACK
Time: 11:00

Maggie has over 16 years of experience working in the travel/tourism industry; Her career in the industry saw her travel to some of the most sought-after destinations in Africa and fuelled the next chapter of her life: sharing Africa with the world through Africa’s first international broadcast and OTT streaming TV channel. Travel Africa Network is a global broadcast travel TV channel that broadcasts content to 135 million households and luxury hotels in Western Europe, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa on EUTELSAT’s HOTBIRD 13° East which forms one of the giant satellite broadcasting footprints in EMEA. The Free-To-Air, 24-hour travel TV channel covers African gastronomy, conservation, art, culture, luxury and adventure travel, hotels, lodges, destinations, etc. Travel Africa Network’s tech division incorporates Virtual-Reality and Augmented Reality technologies to provide unique interactive experiences that promote regional and regional consumer engagement.

Monica Rorvik

Topic: The State of Play – Filming in Africa

Summary:

Time: 14:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | Thursday

Bio: Monica Rorvik

Monica Rorvik heads the film and media promotion team at Wesgro, which is Cape Town and Western Cape region’s Tourism Trade and Investment Promotion Agency.  She previously worked as Durban International Film Festival assistant manager and headed their industry programmes. While there she developed her passion for growing the talent in Africa and was seminal in the formation of Talents Durban in partnership with the Berlinale Talent programme.  She has also been a film programme curator and often serves on international juries, selection panels and market expert programmes for international festivals and markets. Working with Wesgro has enabled her to put even more of her passion for growing the industry, by helping create an enabling environment for this 4IR sector. She is also a certified Film Commissioner with the Association of Film Commissions International.

Business Bio: WESGRO

Wesgro is the Official Tourism, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape. Our divisions include Tourism, Trade, Investment Promotion, Research and Film & Media.   The Cape is a region of unlimited potential, and this translates into unlimited opportunity. Whether you’re interested in unique travel experiences, investment, shooting a film or exporting to Africa and the rest of the world, our province has something for you. Let us help you uncover these opportunities. 

The Wesgro Film and Media Unit uses its network of relationships with stakeholders along the entire film and media supply chain to help local and international film crews create world-class films, commercials, and animation and gaming productions in Cape Town and the Western Cape.

The Cape Town and Western Cape region is a sought-after film destination. Major international and local productions are drawn by the wide range of locations, exemplary services and studios. We assist with production in the province, including regulation guidance and finding co-production parties.

If location is everything, Cape Town and the Western Cape have it all. Think towering mountains and rolling waves, bustling cityscapes and desolate landscapes, and much more. Some of the most popular locations in the Western Cape are found in Cape Town’s CBD, with a variety of urban looks and various types of architecture, as well as stunning natural beauty. We are so diverse that almost any country in the world can be replicated within a two-hour radius of Cape Town. The only limit is your imagination.

An inspiring place to create.

Patrick Walton

Topic1: The Garden Route – Endless Possibilities

Summary:

Time: 12:00

Date: 4 August 2023 | Friday

Patrick is a longstanding member of the filmmaking community in South Africa he wears many hats, including that of producer and stuntman.

Producing credits include both local and international work including commercial, documentary, TV, reality TV. He is a driven and motivated producer, dedicated to the growth, sustained development, and efficacy of the industry. A member for the International Academy of Television, Arts and Sciences (Emmy’s), Patrick’s connection and commitment to the film, commercial and television production industry is a real benefit for his clients.

Sphesihle Dlamini

Topic: OUR KINGDOM IS YOUR STAGE:  Filming on the Landscapes of KZN and its Offerings.

Summary: What incentives are in place, what the processes of filming in KZN look like.  What offerings are available for filmmakers that come film in KZN.

Time: 14:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | Thursday

Sphesihle Dlamini started off as a film director for several Mnet and Etv productions then later moved to being a Location and Facilities specialist at the KZN Film Commission. She has facilitated many subsequent productions through the KZN Film Commission including big SA productions such as REYKA, How To Ruin Christmas, Keeping up with the Kandasamy’s, MTV Shuga 3, The River, FIAP Congress, some prominent Netflix productions and many more.

Business Bio: KZN Film Commission

The KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission was established in accordance with a provincial Act passed in 2010. The KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission is set to begin fulfilling its mandate to make the province a film production centre. In 2014/2015, the KZNFILM developed systems and policies to support and attract national and international role-players in the film industry.

Their vision is to establish a globally competitive, transformed, and sustainable film industry in KwaZulu-Natal.

This is realised through a delivery of programmes like Industry Skills Development, Production and Development Support Fund, Locations and Facility Support and Film Industry Marketing Support.

Thea Aboud

Topic: Introduction to the WGSA

Summary: A brief session about what the WGSA is all about, what we offer – like script registry, Muse awards, script writing courses and much more.

Time: 11:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | Thursday

Thea Aboud started her career in industrial engineering with Iscor, and moved to local, provincial and national government. She branched out into accounting, procurement and human resources and, after 17 years, decided to work for herself. She started Shacabanga Consulting, working as a strategist and capacity-building advisor and, in co-operation with New Horizons, facilitated Business Implementation Plans for local, provincial and national government, non-profit organisations and the private sector in South Africa and other African countries.

In a complete turn-around, Thea then ran a successful take-away / bakery / general dealer in the Eastern Cape, before she returned to Johannesburg in 2010 to set up the Writers’ Guild of South Africa, which she still runs as Executive Officer in conjunction with the WGSA Council.  Among her other clients are the Documentary Filmmakers’ Association, the South African Screen Federation, Sisters Working in Film and Television, the Southern African Freelancers Association and the South African Science Journalists’ Association.

Thea’s strengths lie in organisational capacity building, system analysis, financial management, strategic planning and project management, and she has a sound knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act. As a writer, she has screen credits on a children’s programme and has also been a ballet, ballroom and Latin American dancer and trainer.

Ernst Swart

Topic: PR is a thinking game!

Summary: Put your thinking cap on and buckle up: this is not an easy ride, but a worthwhile adventure. Your PR is not your PA, but one of the most important cogs in your message machine. 

Time: 13:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday Ernst Swart is a jack of all trades – and a master of many. After 13 years in the evolving game of public relations in the TV and Film industry, he has found a new way of making other people’s lives easier – by always thinking out of the box. He lives in Three Anchor Bay, Cape Town, and is always ready for the next adventure.

Lisa Mini

Panel Topic: Deep Dive into Industry Trends

Panel Moderator: Lisa Mini

Time: 15:00

Date: 4 August 2023 | Friday

Lisa Mini is a film and media professional with over 19 years’ experience in the South African film industry.  She joined Wesgro in 2015, as the Film and Media Promotion Officer. Her experience ranges from production management on animated feature films and various other high-profile film and television productions, film festivals, to setting up and running the Cape Town campus of the Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking. A champion of film as a vehicle for social change in South Africa. Lisa uses her platform to help build an inclusive, skilled and vibrant film industry that will position Cape Town and the Western Cape as a preferred film destination. Lisa is a certified Film Commissioner with the Association of Film Commissions International.

Uga Carlini

Topic: Through the Lens: Unveiling heroines – A candid journey into the world of female driven filmmaking.

Summary: Join celebrated filmmaker Uga Carlini in a riveting film masterclass that offers a unique glimpse into the world of female-driven heroine stories. With a candid and unfiltered approach, Uga takes you on a journey through the ups and downs of filmmaking, revealing the good, the bad, and the ugly. Be a fly on the wall as she shares invaluable insights and provide an authentic and enlightening experience for the curious.

Time: 15:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday

Multi-award-winning filmmaker Uga Carlini is of Italian descent but born and raised in South Africa. She has extensive film experience, both in front of and behind the camera, with a career that’s stretched across South Africa, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Fiji. She is the founding owner of Towerkop Creations, a boutique production company that has been specializing in female driven heroine stories since 2010. She has a few impressive productions behind her name including Alison, Angeliena, and Beyond the Light Barrier. In addition to feature length films, she has also directed multiple music videos, serves on the council of the Writer’s Guild of SA, and is a part of SWIFT, IPO, and DFA.

Doné Louw

Topic: Nelson Mandela Bay Locations – Something New

Summary: Nelson Mandela Bay, situated on the picturesque Eastern Cape coast of South Africa, offers filmmakers access to a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse settings, making it an exceptional film location. The Eastern Cape boasts stunning golden beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, complemented by dramatic cliffs, rolling sand dunes, and crystal-clear waters. The Bay’s unique blend of urban and rural environments provides a versatile canvas for filmmakers, ranging from bustling cityscapes to tranquil countryside scenes. Moreover, the region’s rich cultural heritage, influenced by the legacy of Nelson Mandela himself, adds depth and authenticity to any story. With its natural beauty and cultural significance, Nelson Mandela Bay is a captivating choice for filmmakers seeking a visually striking and culturally resonant backdrop.

Time: 12:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | Thursday

Doné Louw currently serves as the Manager of the Nelson Mandela Bay Convention Bureau, overseeing operations and driving tourism growth in the business events sector in Nelson Mandela Bay – South Africa. He currently oversees the EDTA Film office who assist film productions with location scouting and film permits for the Nelson Mandela Bay Film office. His 20 years’ experience as a destination marketing professional includes responsibilities around the implementation of various e-tourism, e-commerce, and promotional campaigns for Nelson Mandela Bay as a sought-after tourist destination. He actively contributed to the creation and implementation of impactful and effective marketing strategies for Nelson Mandela Bay as a tourism destination including destination marketing tools such as the Nelson Mandela Bay Pass.

Beyond his managerial role, Doné has been an active member of various other tourism associations and committees, including the Eastern Cape Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) Committee, Port Elizabeth Bed and Breakfast Association EXCO, Nelson Mandela Bay Tour Guides Association Committee, and SKAL Nelson Mandela Bay Committee.

Songezo Boyisi

Topic: How to access Eastern Cape Film Investment Fund

Summary: The presentation will focus on EC Film Investment fund and available opportunities for film & television in the Eastern Cape.

Time: 14:00

Date: 4 August 2023 | Friday

Mr Boyisi is an Investment Advisor & Sector Support at the Eastern Cape Development Corporation, responsible for leading investments in various economic sectors, including film and television sector. The ECDC supports commercially viable productions looking for gap funding to locate their film & television projects to the Eastern Cape.

Mr Boyisi has been very active in establishing and managing the Eastern Cape Film Investment Fund (ECFIF) as solutions into the film and television industry of the Eastern Cape.

Elani Pretorius

Topic: Social Media Marketing for your Business

Summary: A short crash course on using social media effectively for your business and/or your personal brand.

Time: 10:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | Thursday Elani is a qualified identity stylist, fine artist, photographer, and content creator. She is co-founder/owner of the popular women’s brand Kollegin. With over 12 years of experience working in the industry, she found her passion connecting with women and youth while making them feel confident inside and out. She believes that true beauty is born from a place of self-acceptance, selflessness, and compassion. It appears when you are your authentic self. She wants to help others to recognize their value, find their voice, and clarify their path through the power of confidence and discovering and embracing their uniqueness.

Nerusha Maharaj-Sadapal

Topic: Make a movie in 1 weekend! 

Summary: Make a movie in weekend, get it screened in cinema a few weeks.  Winner competes internationally with the 130 other city winners and the Top 10 Films from here go to Cannes Film festival. 

The 48 Hour Film Project is a wild and sleepless weekend in which teams make a short film – write, shoot, and edit – in just 48 hours. Join in the fun!
www.48hourfilm.com/durban 

Time: 15:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | Thursday

Nerusha has won multiple awards as a woman in business including 1st runner up in Durban Tourism awards in the film category. She was voted one of the top 50 most influential people by Eastern Eye Magazine in 2021. She is currently a producer for the 48 Hour Film Project, which challenges participants to produce a short film in only one weekend! She runs a one stop Production store in KZN assisting movie productions with all thier needs, had assisted over 60 movie productions and is launching a locations web application.

Phakamisa George

Introductory Speaker : Network Breakfast

Time: 10:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday

Bio: Phakamisa George Mr Phakamisa George graduated with a degree in Economics (B. Econ) at the University of the Western Cape in 1995. In 2002, he obtained a certificate in GIS and Remote Sensing at the Sector Network for Remote Sensing in Harare, Zimbabwe. He has experience in the South African banking sector, focusing on credited control. He further worked with the GTZ (German Technical Corporation) for 7 years on special planning and economic development projects around Southern Africa. Mr George has over 10 years as Head of the Risk Capital fund for the Eastern Cape province of South Africa in charge of financing green field investment projects. He’s now the Senior Manager for Trade Promotion where he’s responsible for the promotion of trade between Eastern Cape companies and the rest of the world whilst also promoting access to local & international markets for the Creative Industry enterprises. He is currently the Acting Head of Trade Investment & Innovation at the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC). The Eastern Cape Film Investment Fund is one of the instruments that his unit manages and uses to attract manager commercial film productions into the Eastern Cape. He has served in a number of boards, namely Singisi Forest Products (SFP) Pty Ltd Board, the Umthatha Private Hospital Board, Summerpride Foods (Pty) Ltd Board, Non-Automotive Manufacturing Cluster Board and the Production Technologies South Africa (PtSA) Board.

Mlamli Kama

Topic: Funding Opportunities for the Film Industry from the NFVF.

Summary: Over the only three years, that Mlamli has joined the film industry, there has been tremendous growth of new entrants ranging from high school learners, up to retired professionals joining the industry as Tier 3 development applicants.   This is extremely positive, however challenging too as at least more than 3 times resources are today needed to support and capacitate the industry to the fullest.

At the NFVF, we attempt to provide support to all industry players at all levels starting from funding high school learners into getting film studies bursaries, through development and production funding up to post-production, marketing and distribution and festival hosting and attendance.

We do this annually through a number of processes, programmes and interventions supported by the DSAC and of course film industry practitioners.  We are passionate as part of our mandate to reach even the poorest of the poor areas in providing full support through our funding programmes – while assuring compliance. It is therefore imperative to engage and discuss and explain all processes throughout all possible platforms.

Time: 15:00

Date: 3 August 2023 | Thursday

Bio: Mlamli Kama

Mlamli Kama,  Head of Funding and Compliance at the NFVF.  Mainly responsible to administer all funding applications across all funding pillars from planning of funding calls, through processing and evaluations of applications, up to writing council reports.  Managing full compliance, stakeholder communication and reporting to audit function.

Mlamli started his career in financial industry up to leading client services compliance functions at Momentum and ABSA Investments. He further shifted to Business Development, leading revenue creation teams at Omnicor, Denel and South African State Theatre.  Three years ago, he left the performing arts company for film and video industry.

Academically, he holds BA degree and Postgraduate Diploma in Management from UCT. Currently he is studying MBA degree at Wits Business School.

Mak Mogoba

Summary: In this session Mr Mogoba gives an overview of the support that the Gauteng Film Commission offers to the Film Industry.

Time: 11:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday Makakatlela (Mak) Mogoba is currently acting as Executive head for Partnerships, Industry and Special Projects which is responsible for Industry Support and Development and Marketing communications core business units. He is also managing Strategy and Stakeholder Management for the Gauteng Film Commission, reporting directly to CEO for past 7 years. He has over 20 years’ experience in the ICT and Multimedia environment. He holds a Post-graduate Diploma in Management and the Management Advancement Programme (MAP), both from Wits Business School. His experience and main performance areas at Gauteng Film Commission (GFC) have been on industry support, strategic planning, performance reporting and stakeholder relations.

Michael Nicholson

Topic: The amended FPB act and regulations vs impacts on digital and physical platforms in relation to classification of content

Summary: Awareness of the mandate and responsibilities of the FPB and its amended act and regulations. The creation of digital content and distribution through online medium platforms. The discussion will also include subjects of hate speech, self-classification, and sharing/distribution of explicit personal photographs and videos of sexual nature of both adults and children.

Time: 13:00

Date: 4 August 2023 | Friday Currently employed as the Compliance officer for the inspections desk, Western Region. Employed at the FPB since 2014, previously served 10 years at the Dept. of Home Affairs provincial directorate office. I’ve received extensive experience and training in the legal and regulatory fields of government and studied at New Horizons Computer training institute CPT, A+, COMPTIA+ and N+ Security systems. Through my career, I’ve gained first hand experience on social economic issues in the country relating to our diverse cultures vs integrations of diverse norms and standards vs legislative rights and expectations and the effects there of. Parallel to the physical practices and standards of living, the online platforms experiences equally challenging issues since these platforms excludes discrimination and continuously demands the rights to freedom of expression and information.

Dr. Eubulus Timothy

Topic: History and Future of Film in SA

Time: 15:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday

Dr Eubulus Timothy is a dental surgeon, teacher, writer, award winning filmmaker, auteur and disruptor. He was the founding chairperson of the Cape Film Commission and has served as vice chairperson of Writer’s Guild Of South Africa.He holds multiple degrees and diplomas in dentistry, marketing, and filmmaking from universities all over the world and even lectures post-graduate students at UWC.

As a young filmmaker, he trained as a director under notable Hollywood names: Randy Zisk (Monk, Desperate Housewives, Greys Anatomy) and Allan Arkush ( Heroes, Ally McBeal, Melrose Place). In his career he has won multiple awards on both home soil and abroad including:

Harley-Merrill Screenwriting Award – Hollywood

South African International Film Awards – Best Screenplay

Simon Sabela Film and TV Award – Nomination – Best Document Short -2021 and Best Use of KZN as a Location Bokeh Film Awards – Selection – Best Film – 2022

Thami Ngubeni

Thami Ngubeni is an Award-winning Television and Radio host, Producer and Actress with over 2 decades worth of experience in creating content for tv, radio and print and initiating and conducting transformative and insightful conversations with South Africans from all walks of life. She is MD of Thamzin Media. In the past she has held the following roles: – News Anchor at Newzroom Africa – Editor of O, The Oprah magazine SA – Producer at international media giant, Fremantle media and Pearson TV Her Producing and co-producing credits Include: SAFTA award-winning Talk show ‘Life With Thami’ (Best Talk show category) which was licensed by SABC 3 and SABC 2. The show was also licensed to The Africa Channel in the US and some international airlines. She was also Host of the Show. – The Apprentice SA (business Reality show with Tokyo Sexwale) – Maropeng: The Spirit of the Lion King (Docci Reality series) – Interrogation Room (Drama Series) – Life With Thami (Talk show) – Amadoda Emadodeni (documentary series) – SacredFest (studio music show) – SacredFest (Live concert for broadcast) – Family Fortunes (Game Show) – Greed (Gameshow) – Small Talk (Game Show) – Top Billing (magazine show). She is former Chairperson of the Business Woman’s Association of South Africa’s (BWASA) Gauteng Chapter as a Broadcaster: – She has hosted her Inspirational radio show, the Sacred Space on Metro FM for 16 years. – And the Liberty award-winning news and current affairs talk show on Radio 2000 which focused on the real issues and conflicts that South Africans deal with as an actress she has starred in Jozi H, Generations, Known Gods, Critical Assignment amongst others.

Panel: The benefits of establishing The Producers Guild Of South Africa

Moderator:

Thami Ngubeni – IPO Executive Committee member

Panelists:

1. Jahmil XT Qubeka – IPO Deputy Chairperson

2. Quinton Fredericks – IPO Executive Member

Summary: South African Producers are currently represented by various bodies such

as the Independent Producers Organisation (IPO), the Independent Black Filmmakers

Collective (IBFC) and the Documentary Film Association (DFA). Over the past 30 years

the landscape has been divided and complicated due to our apartheid legacy and

the ever-changing political and social environment. The diversity in production has also

fostered divisions and lack of unity. Yet all content producers in South Africa are faced

with the same challenges regardless of the type of content producer one identifies as,

or one’s race or location. The launch of The Producers Guild of South Africa (PGSA) will

drive a process of unity, establishing firm roots for the future growth of the industry

sector, enabling producers to speak with one, stronger and more effective voice.

Time: 14:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday

Jahmil XT Qubeka

Raised in the township of Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape, Jahmil XT Qubeka is one of
the most prolific and successful filmmakers on the continent. A gifted storyteller, Jahmil
has won multiple awards including a Peabody, a LA BAFTA, a number of South African
Film and Television Awards (SAFTAS), several African Movie Academy Awards and over
20 international film festival awards.

He has directed two feature films that were selected as South Africa’s Oscar
contenders in the Best International Feature Category — Sew the Winter to my Skin,
2019 Knuckle City 2020). His work has competed at TIFF, Cannes, Busan, BFI London,
FESPACO, DIFF, Palm Springs, PAFF to name only a few. Jahmil has directed numerous
documentaries, 6 feature films and South Africa’s largest 100% black created television
series Blood Psalms.

One of Forbes African game-changers, Jahmil has been labelled a maverick, a
visionary and a pioneer of the evolution of African cinema. A career charged with grit,
determination and authenticity; Jahmil is the cream of the crop. The epitome of the
future of African Cinema.

Panel: The benefits of establishing The Producers Guild Of South Africa

Moderator:

Thami Ngubeni – IPO Executive Committee member

Panelists:

1. Jahmil XT Qubeka – IPO Deputy Chairperson

2. Quinton Fredericks – IPO Executive Member

Summary: South African Producers are currently represented by various bodies such

as the Independent Producers Organisation (IPO), the Independent Black Filmmakers

Collective (IBFC) and the Documentary Film Association (DFA). Over the past 30 years

the landscape has been divided and complicated due to our apartheid legacy and

the ever-changing political and social environment. The diversity in production has also

fostered divisions and lack of unity. Yet all content producers in South Africa are faced

with the same challenges regardless of the type of content producer one identifies as,

or one’s race or location. The launch of The Producers Guild of South Africa (PGSA) will

drive a process of unity, establishing firm roots for the future growth of the industry

sector, enabling producers to speak with one, stronger and more effective voice.

Time: 14:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday

Quinton Fredericks

A highlight of his 16-year career as filmmaker occurred in 2007, when his company, Pitch Black Films won a SAFTA for the 58 part documentary series titled What’s Your Story? A number of other documentaries, short films etc. have subsequently followed, including the powerful coming of age documentary, Vision to Dream, screened at Encounters International Documentary Film Festival.
He is currently working on a feature length documentary, Imprint of the Ancestors to explore and understand his roots as a mixed race person (so-called Coloured), and also developing his first feature film with a first draft script completed. Since 2015, he has managed the CSI after-school programme on the Cape Flats for Kalahari Film and Media, teaching film and television production to learners in schools most impacted by gang and drug violence. This in recognition of the fact that these learners may never be able to afford attendance at a film school and require alternative means of access to the industry.
In 2004, as the training coordinator for a number of disadvantaged learners on the IDC funded SA- Canadian co-production sci-fi series, Charlie Jade, he pioneered one of the most innovative and coherent skills development interventions for aspirant black filmmakers and other industry professionals. The Film Industry Learner Mentorship Programme (F.I.L.M.), a partnership with some of the top production companies in the country has been in operation for more than ten years with some 400 learners graduating from it. In 2006, he was elected chairperson of the Working Group on BEE and Transformation under the auspices of the then Cape Film Commission. This body produced a number of draft strategic interventions in terms of the ongoing transformation of the SA Film and Television industry.
Since Oct 2021 he has been Co Chair of the IPO, representing the majority of Independent Producers and serves as Co-Chair of SASFED, IPO member of the DSAC/DTIC Live Events and Technical Production Services B-BBEE Scorecard Transformation Forum, member of the Working Group on the Creative Industries Master Process along with engagement on various other audio visual policy and regulatory initiatives such as the Audio Visual White Paper, the SABC Amendment Bill, the NPO Amendment Act, the Copyright Amendment Bill and the Performers Protection Amendment Act.
He is currently in house producer for Spier Films SA with multiple projects in development including one which is a beneficiary of the NFVF/Netherlands Thuthuka Film Fund launched in 2021 and serves as a Director and Co – Life Chair of the SA Film Academy along with David Wicht of Film Afrika.

Panel: The benefits of establishing The Producers Guild Of South Africa

Moderator:

Thami Ngubeni – IPO Executive Committee member

Panelists:

1. Jahmil XT Qubeka – IPO Deputy Chairperson

2. Quinton Fredericks – IPO Executive Member

Summary: South African Producers are currently represented by various bodies such

as the Independent Producers Organisation (IPO), the Independent Black Filmmakers

Collective (IBFC) and the Documentary Film Association (DFA). Over the past 30 years

the landscape has been divided and complicated due to our apartheid legacy and

the ever-changing political and social environment. The diversity in production has also

fostered divisions and lack of unity. Yet all content producers in South Africa are faced

with the same challenges regardless of the type of content producer one identifies as,

or one’s race or location. The launch of The Producers Guild of South Africa (PGSA) will

drive a process of unity, establishing firm roots for the future growth of the industry

sector, enabling producers to speak with one, stronger and more effective voice.

Time: 14:00

Date: 5 August 2023 | Saturday