UKZN Lecturer Recognised by African Film Making Agency

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UKZN lecturer in Cinema Studies Ms Abulele Njisane has been selected by the African film-making agency, Realness, as an industry professional for the second edition of the Southern Africa-Locarno Industry Academy, a development programme for professionals working in distribution, sales, programming and exhibition.

Through its Realness Institute programme, which trains participants to become ecosystem builders, the organisation works to change the face of independent film in Africa and around the world.

However, Njisane considers herself invested in exploring ways of strengthening academic and industry relations to better understand current developments in the field, especially in film distribution and exhibition. She highlighted the significance of collaborative work between Media and Cultural Studies and the Centre for Creative Arts which continues to provide a platform to bridge gaps between academic and industry work.

‘The experiential knowledge gained will enrich my current PhD writing process - the networking opportunities and masterclasses that I’ll be exposed to will enhance the teaching and learning experience for me and my students and relationships established will be used to contribute to positioning our students for industry work,’ she said.

She looks forward to seeing the current body of film productions in circulation, strengthening existing relationships with various industry stakeholders. ‘I also look forward to discussions about the longstanding challenges in establishing profitable avenues for the distribution-exhibition of African films to African audiences,’ said Njisane.

She motivated her students saying: ‘You are the future industry practitioners, your skills and voices matter.’

Njisane thanked her UKZN colleagues, especially in Media and Cultural Studies and the School of Arts leadership for their messages of support as she prepares for the programme which will take place in Cape Town.

‘I am very proud of Ms Abulele Njisane and I congratulate her on this opportunity which will enrich her PhD study which explores National Cinemas in South Africa,’ said Professor Nobuhle Hlongwa, Dean and Head of the School of Arts. ‘Her achievements benefit her students and strengthen the School’s Industry relations.’

Link to the announcement: https://www.screendaily.com/news/realness-selects-nine-african-women-for-locarno-linked-industry-development-academy-exclusive/5183524.article.

Words: Sinoyolo Mahlasela

Photograph: Supplied