EMPOWERING FEMALE VOICES: THE NFVF FEMALE FILMMAKER PROJECT ANNOUNCES THE FINAL SELECTION
The NFVF, Yellowbone Entertainment, the SABC, the KZN Film Commission & CAA – paving the way for diversity and empowerment in South African cinema
#FemaleNext
Johannesburg, June 2023
The Female Filmmaker Project proudly announces the selection of the talented female filmmakers from across South Africa who will participate in this ground-breaking initiative. After a rigorous process that involved hundreds of applications, a shortlisting phase, and a pitching session with esteemed industry experts, these exceptional filmmakers have been chosen to embark on an incredible journey of storytelling and creativity.
The Female Filmmaker Project, in collaboration with esteemed partners, the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), Yellowbone Entertainment, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Kwa-Zulu Natal Film Commission and the Creative Artists Agency (CAA), aims to empower and promote female voices in the South African film industry. The overwhelming response to the project highlights the abundance of talent and diverse stories that exist within our country.
This year, the project focus is on exploring the “Multiverse” theme in the context of modern-day South Africa. The participants in the programme, will have the opportunity to enhance their skills, broaden their knowledge, and establish important industry connections under the mentorship of Yellowbone Entertainment.
“Congratulations to the selected filmmakers for this remarkable achievement which is only the beginning of their directing trajectory,” said Yolanda Ncokotwana, NFVF Head of Industry Development. “As the NFVF we are honoured to be adding new female voices to the South African story canvas, actively transforming our industry and creating a space for women led narratives. This cohort of filmmakers will gain more skills while showcasing the depth of their talents and creativity, and we couldn’t be more proud. ”
“At Yellowbone Entertainment, we are thrilled to welcome the selected female filmmakers who will participate in the NFVF Female Filmmaker Project,” said Neo Moretlwe, Chief Communications Officer at Yellowbone Entertainment. “As we champion diversity and strive to create opportunities for underrepresented voices in the film industry, this project holds a special place in our mission of empowering and uplifting filmmakers. We are filled with excitement and passion as we embark on this transformative journey, eagerly anticipating the remarkable films that will be crafted by these incredibly talented individuals. Together, we will break barriers and reshape the landscape of South African cinema. Congratulations to the selected filmmakers, and let the multiverse unfold!”
The selected filmmakers are:
- Althea Jarvis – “The Multiverse of Auntie G” (Eastern Cape)
- Carla Roberts – “Santa’s Pose” (Western Cape)
- Hallie Haller – “Jodie Is Infinite” (Kwa-Zulu Natal)
- Kudakwashe Maradzika – “Remembrance” (Gauteng)
- Loren Loubser – “Below The Salt” (Western Cape)
- Nicole Fortuin – “Thula Tula” (Western Cape)
- Phumi Morare – “An Heir” (Gauteng)
- Samke Makhoba – “KwaZulu” (Kwa-Zulu Natal)
- Thembakuye Madlala – “A Bullet for The People” (Kwa-Zulu Natal)
- Thulile Mthembu – “Paper Town Love” (Mpumalanga)
- Zainab Hoseini-Baghsangani – “Look at What They’ve Done To Us” (Gauteng)
- Zandile Mjekula – “The Six” (Eastern Cape)
“Representation is important, we are proud to be part of this important initiative that centres, celebrates and amplifies the voices of female filmmakers,” said Lala Tuku – SABC Video Entertainment: Head of Content. “The SABC is committed to supporting and promoting diverse voices in the film industry. We believe in the power of storytelling to shape perceptions, challenge norms, and inspire change. Through our partnership with the Female Filmmaker Project, we aim to create a platform for emerging talent to showcase their unique stories. We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to witnessing the incredible films that will emerge from this collaboration. Congratulations to all “
The selected filmmakers will now enter the next phase of the Female Filmmaker Project, where they will participate in workshops, a writers retreat, and story development sessions. This intensive process aims to provide them with the necessary tools, mentorship, and resources to refine their stories and prepare for production. Audiences can expect to witness the journey of these filmmakers through updates and behind-the-scenes content on the Yellowbone Entertainment social media platforms.
“The Kwa-Zulu Natal Film Commission is thrilled to support the Female Filmmaker Project and congratulates the selected filmmakers,” said Victor Senna, Acting CEO. “We believe in the power of storytelling to transform communities and foster meaningful connections, and we look forward to seeing these talented filmmakers bring their visions to life.”
The Female Filmmaker Project is set to make a significant impact on the South African film landscape, providing a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard and empowering female filmmakers to share their unique perspectives.
Join us on this extraordinary journey by following us on social media and visiting our website at https://www.yellowboneentertainment.com/ for more information about the Female Filmmaker Project and to stay updated on the filmmakers’ progress.
ENDS
For media requests contact:
Neo Moretlwe
Chief Communications Officer
Yellowbone Entertainment/ The Post Office
neo@yellowboneentertainment.com
Lerato Mokopanele
Marketing and Communications Manager
National Film and Video Foundation
About Yellowbone Entertainment
Yellowbone Entertainment, a pioneering production company, was established in 2017 after years of unwavering dedication to revolutionize the South African film and television industry. Since its inception, the company has achieved remarkable success, consistently earning prestigious accolades at renowned events such as the African Movie Academy Awards and the South African Film and Television Awards.
Yellowbone Entertainment has produced a myriad of ground-breaking projects that exemplify its bold and inventive spirit. Notable among these successes are “Knuckle City,” “Blood Psalms,” “You’re My Favourite Place,” and “Sew The Winter To My Skin,” which stand as shining examples of the company’s commitment to embracing diversity and pushing boundaries.
With a passion for storytelling and a steadfast dedication to excellence, Yellowbone Entertainment continues to shape the landscape of the South African film and television industry, cementing its position as a leading force in the realm of production.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YellowboneEntertainment/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yellowbone_entertainment/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Yellowbone_Ent
Website: https://www.yellowboneentertainment.com/
About NFVF
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) is an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture that was created to ensure the equitable growth of South Africa’s film and video industry. The NFVF does this by providing funding for the development, production, marketing and distribution of films and the training and development of filmmakers. In addition, the NFVF commissions research and produces industry statistics that provide both the stakeholders with valuable insights into the South African film industry.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nfvfsa/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nfvfsa
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nfvfsa
Website: https://www.nfvf.co.za