Latest news with #SimonMabhunuSabelaAwards
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
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
KwaZulu-Natal's winter tourism surge
The 56th edition of the Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill is in full swing, transforming KwaDukuza into the ultimate winter escape until July 6. Image: Luke Patterson KwaZulu-Natal's warm winter weather and holiday and cultural experiences is set to drive a significant seasonal surge in visitors this July, with both tourism and film taking centre stage across the province. In addition to being a peak travel period, July is celebrated as Film Month in KwaZulu-Natal, as the province plays host to the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), the Durban FilmMart (DFM), and the prestigious Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards on July 19. These events draw global creatives, industry leaders and investors, firmly positioning KZN as a premier film and content production destination on the continent. The KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) expects a 12–15% increase in domestic arrivals this winter compared to 2024, with an estimated R500 million in tourism-related contributions in July alone, supported by over 70,000 cumulative visitors across key events and destinations. 'We're seeing strong indicators that July is expected to deliver a substantial surge in domestic travel, thanks to the alignment of the school holidays, hallmark events and our temperate winter climate that remains a magnet for year-round tourism,' said Sibusiso Gumbi, Interim CEO of KZNTAFA. 'Our July calendar is a showcase of what KZN does best – culture, fashion, film, entertainment and hospitality.' Richard Fourie puts favourite Eight On Eighteen through its paces at the official Hollywoodbets Durban July Gallops on Thursday Image: Candiese Lenferna / Race Coast Good news for the industry The July school holidays, coupled with a raft of seasonal activities and mega events, have brought good news for KZN's tourism industry as holidaymakers, the film fraternity, fun lovers and adventure seekers head to KwaZulu-Natal, boosting hotel and B&B occupancy figures, increasing restaurant and shopping centre footfall counts. The first of the big iconic crowd-pulling events is the Hollywoodbets Durban July on the 5th, Africa's premier horse racing and fashion event, which is expected to attract more than 55,000 racegoers. The estimated direct tourism spend will be R150 million, with more than R350 million in overall economic impact, contributing to both GDP and job creation. At KZN Tourism and Film Authority's own hospitality marquee at the race, guests will enjoy an exclusive fashion installation curated by top KZN designers, presented in collaboration with leading fashion producers and cultural curators. All just in time for the forthcoming Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards on July 19, which honours excellence in the province's film and TV industry. Later in the month, the Dundee July (July 20), KZN's rural, cultural and horse-riding festival – is expected to attract more than 25,000 visitors to northern KZN, reinforcing cultural tourism and community-based economic development. 'These two events are critical tourism levers. They support local entrepreneurs, fashion designers, hospitality businesses and drive domestic traveller confidence in the province,' said Sibusiso Gumbi. Sibusiso Gumbi, the acting Chief Executive of the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority. Image: Supplied The positive forecast about an increase in KZN tourism numbers comes in the wake of the latest tourism figures from Stats SA, which spell good news for the hospitality sector. Figures show that the total income for the country's hospitality sector increased 9.8% in April 2025 compared to the same period last year. Climate advantage 'KZN's winter is mild and sunny, with coastal temperatures averaging 22–25 degrees C. While other provinces shiver, we shine, and this climate advantage ensures consistent visitor interest beyond traditional peak seasons,' Gumbi added. The expected boost to visitor numbers follows an intensified domestic tourism campaign by the Entity, which has leveraged travel trade partnerships, influencer marketing, and activation of cultural hubs. These ongoing winter-tailored campaigns target Gauteng, Eastern Cape and Free State markets, focusing on heritage, wellness, adventure and culinary tourism. 'Our focus is very clear: keep domestic tourism growing,' he said. 'We have pulled out all the stops to attract people to our province and those efforts look like they will pay off,' said Gumbi, 'There is so much going on that KZN is undoubtedly the place to be, particularly this winter.' Spill-over benefits in the North Coast The North Coast regional organisation – Enterprise iLembe Economic Development Agency – has added its voice to the upbeat forecast about the winter season, saying that current trends suggest '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, said Siyabonga Mazibuko, the CEO of Enterprise iLembe. One of the most exciting developments this winter will be the Durban July Ballito Experience, hosted in uMhlali Country Club in KwaDukuza and Westbrook in partnership with the national Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. This activation is aligned to the Durban July excitement, creating investment networking experiences, fashion and lifestyle showcases, and possibilities of locations for film productions. The event has added a fresh dimension to the calendar and will attract new visitors to the region. There has also been strong interest in local markets, food festivals, and cultural showcases designed to complement the high visitor influx. There has been a marked increase in bookings across local hotels, B&Bs and self-catering units, particularly in hotspots like Ballito, Salt Rock and KwaDukuza. Both footfall and revenue are expected to be up this year compared to last winter. 'Restaurants and beachfront venues are reporting higher foot traffic and increased patronage. Tour operators and activity-based businesses such as hiking, quad biking and cultural experiences are also noting stronger demand compared to off-peak months,' said Mazibuko. 'It's clear the region is experiencing a seasonal surge.' Domestic tourism continues to be the cornerstone of the North Coast's winter season as visitors from Gauteng, Mpumalanga and the Free State are especially prominent. 'That being said, we are also seeing encouraging signs of international interest returning, particularly from SADC countries and niche markets such as Europe-based expats and digital nomads,' he added. Snow-capped the mountains at Rhino Peak, Drakensberg Gardens in Underberg. Image: File While some travellers opt for shorter, high-quality stays, there is growing demand for authentic experiences, including heritage tourism, adventure activities, culinary tours and cultural events. 'Enterprise iLembe is committed to sustaining this momentum through targeted campaigns, partnerships and ongoing tourism development efforts,' Mazibuko said. Winter in the Drakensberg The tourism industry over in the Central and Northern Drakensberg has already experienced positive winter trends. 'The region experienced an excellent Youth Day long weekend,' said James Seymour, Managing Director of Cathkin Booking and Management Services. '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,' he explained. Asked about the type of experiences drawing visitors to the region during winter, he said: 'Tourists want wintery, snowy type experiences – log fires, scenes of snow on the peaks.''Weekends were good, especially if there is a chance of snowfall on the peaks.' Fishermen in Warner Beach net several crates of sardines. Image: Doctor Ngcobo / Independent Newspapers Nature and Film shine on the South Coast On the KZN South Coast, nature has already been playing a key role in boosting holiday arrival figures. 'We have had an incredible start to our winter season with the arrival of the Sardine Run,' said Dr Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise (SCTIE). '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,' he continued. The Sardine Run has also attracted film crews, who are capturing this unique natural phenomenon alongside visitors enjoying boat rides, diving excursions and coastal adventures. 'The KZN South Coast boasts a wealth of outdoor experiences that make this a top destination, including having the highest number of Blue Flag beaches and tidal pools in the province,' Dr Sibiya said. 'Our two world-renowned dive sites at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks offer incredible underwater experiences, while the 11 immaculate golf courses and friendly clubhouses ensure every golfer has a great time away.' Township tours and hinterland excursions continue to attract those seeking unique, culturally rich experiences. Trails such as the Umzumbe River Trail, KwaNdwalane Adventure, AgriTours and the Mission Tourism Route showcase the area's natural beauty, history and hospitality. The launch of the Wellness Way Route has embraced the global wellness travel trend, while extreme adventure options like gorge-swinging, ziplining and abseiling offer high-adrenaline alternatives.
IOL News
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Nominees announced for the 12th Annual Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards 2025
L-R Hope Mbhele , Chairperson of the Board at the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority Dr Sibusiso Ndebele and Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards 2025 nominee Portia Ncwane Image: supplied KZNTAFA KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority (KZNTAFA) announced the nominees for the 12th annual Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards 2025 on Wednesday, with the awards expected to take place in July. KZNTAFA said that it is a celebration of outstanding talent and creativity in KwaZulu-Natal's ever-evolving film and television industry. 'Under the theme 'Africa's Champions of Storytelling: From Piers to Pages,' this year's nominees reflect the vibrant, diverse, and growing creative talent emerging from the province and beyond. With over 30 categories, the awards continue to celebrate the actors, directors, writers, and behind-the-scenes professionals who continue to shape South Africa's cinematic identity.' The 2025 nominee announcement event was hosted by actress, media personality, and previous nominee of the Simon Mabhunu Sabela KZN Film and Television Awards, Hope Mbhele. Dr Sibusiso Ndebele, Chairperson of the Board at the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, said that the Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards honours the legacy of a true pioneer in South African film, reminding us of the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and uplift. As the Authority, we remain committed to nurturing talent and positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a competitive and innovative film hub. Over the past year, we've made deliberate investments in emerging filmmakers, ensuring continued growth and transformation in the sector.' KZNTAFA added that leading this year's nominations list is the much-acclaimed production Umjolo Film Slate, recognised across multiple film performance and directing categories. 'It is followed by the BET Original Production A Wesley South African Christmas, and close behind are audience favourites Smoke & Mirrors and Uzalo, which all showcase KZN's remarkable local storytelling talent and production quality.' KZNTAFA said that nominations span over 30 categories, including Best Actor and Actress in TV and Film, Best Director, Best Use of KZN as a Filming Location, Best Documentary, Best Feature and Short Film, Best Student Film, and more — reflecting a wide cross-section of the creative sector. Mbuso Khoza, nominated for Best Supporting Actor in Film for Masinga the Calling, said that 'This nomination is a celebration of where we come from as artists. The Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards honour stories rooted in who we are as Africans — spiritual, emotional, proud. I am humbled to be recognised for a role that honours our ancestors and the sacred responsibility of storytelling.' Edwin Cole, who was nominated for Best Cinematography category for the movie Highway Sheila: Resurrection, said that he is truly humbled by this recognition. 'Working on Highway Sheila: Resurrection was an unforgettable journey, filled with creative challenges that pushed us to our limits. The early morning shoots, the empty roads, and the freedom to craft each frame made this project special. I'm grateful to Arish Sirkissoon and the entire Lx Seth team for their trust and collaboration. This nomination is a win for all of us.' Arish Sirkissoon, Director of Highway Sheila: Resurrection, said that 'It's an incredible honour to have Highway Sheila: Resurrection acknowledged by such a respected awards body. 'I am so proud of Edwin Cole and his well-deserved nomination. His commitment to the project was unmatched — not only did he craft the visual language of the film, but he also brilliantly portrayed the iconic character of Shambies. We often found ourselves shooting at 4 AM on deserted highways to achieve the perfect shots. Independent films like ours need to be celebrated and embraced by mainstream audiences, and I'm proud that this film is part of that movement.' BUSINESS REPORT Visit:
The Citizen
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
‘Umjolo' dominates Simon Mabhunu Sabela film and TV awards
'Umjolo' – a slang term for dating – served as the central theme across four Netflix films released over four months. Sibusisiwe Jili of Umjolo: Day Ones is nominated in the Best Actress in film category. Picture: aura_sibu/Instagram Very few things are as topical as the dating scene, and the number of nominees received by Netflix's Umjolo series at this year's Simon Mabhunu Sabela KwaZulu-Natal Film and TV Awards reflects this. The Umjolo series of films on Netflix South Africa received a total of eight nominations at the 12th annual awards. The awards are a celebration of outstanding talent and creativity in KwaZulu-Natal's (KZN) ever-evolving film and television industry. ALSO READ: 'Such storylines highlight our commonalities as opposed to our differences' – Kay Sibiya on Netflix film 'Umjolo: Day Ones' Umjolo's dominance 'Umjolo', which is a slang word for dating, was the theme throughout the four films that Netflix released in four months. The four films are: Umjolo: The Gone Girl, Umjolo: Day Ones, Umjolo: My Beginning, My End, and Umjolo: There is No Cure. Actor Nkanyiso Makhanya, who featured in Umjolo: My Beginning, My End, is nominated in the Best Actor in a film category. Actresses Shezi Sibongiseni (Umjolo: The Gone Girl) and Sibusisiwe Jili (Umjolo: Day Ones) are nominated for Best Actress in a film, alongside Baby Cele, for her work on A Wesley South African Christmas. Actors Menzi Biyela from Umjolo: Day Ones and Umjolo: The Gone Girl's Ntando Mncube are competing for the Best Supporting Actor in a film. Mbuso Khoza of Masinga The Calling is the other nominee in the category. The director of Umjolo: There is no Cure, Mthunzi Dubazana, is also nominated in the Best Director category. 'The Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards honour the legacy of a true pioneer in South African film, reminding us of the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and uplift,' Chairperson of the Board at the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority Dr Sibusiso Ndebele said. 'As the Authority, we remain committed to nurturing talent and positioning KwaZulu-Natal as a competitive and innovative film hub.' Nominations span over 30 categories, including Best Use of KZN as a Filming Location, Best Documentary, Best Feature and Short Film, Best Student Film, and more, reflecting a broad cross-section of the creative sector. ALSO READ: Inkabi film director elated with recognition of hitmen movie by KZN Film and TV Awards Awards new logo The nominees' announcement was hosted by actress Hope Mbhele, who captivated attendees with her warm energy and deep cultural pride. In a moving moment, she broke into an impromptu isiZulu praise song, lifting the room and embodying the spirit of celebration that defines these awards. The announcement event also unveiled the new 2025 Simon Mabhunu Sabela Awards logo, aligning with this year's theme, Africa's Champions of Storytelling: From Piers to Pages. In the current design, Africa is represented by the 'O' in Simon, symbolising the continent as the heart of our storytelling tradition. The word 'Awards' features typography that reflects the voices of writers, filmmakers, and creatives — Africa's true champions of narrative excellence. This design evolution will carry through to the show's branding, visuals and experience. NOW READ: WATCH: SA short film 'Caleb: Beyond the Bite' wins gold at film festival
