Young filmmakers graduate

At a graduation ceremony held in Randburg late last week, 16 young filmmakers of the MultiChoice film talent incubator programme were rewarded for 24 weeks of intensive training in camera techniques, producing and directing, as well as sound and editing techniques.

"Our main objective with the programme is to fast-track previously disadvantaged talented individuals in South Africa's film and television industry. We are committed to contributing towards addressing the technical skills gap in our film industry and to develop up-and-coming filmmakers. Our heartfelt congratulations to the 2009 recipients,” said Jackie Rakitla MultiChoice's GM Corporate Affairs.

As part of the programme, the students have to produce a short film and to encourage and recognise their work, an awards section has been included as part of the graduation ceremony.

Awards

Six of the graduates received awards for their outstanding work during the programme.

Overall film: Tamadani Kapisa for Amajoker
Best sound: Cyprian Nkabinde for Memories of a Forgotten Place
Best camera: Bheki Ntombela for Vendors of Noord Street
Best producers shared: Inzila Nageng and Daniel Nxumalo for Sibongiseni - Love You The Way You Are
Best editor: Tebogo Tsagane for Straight Out Of Prison
Best director: Palesa Shongwe for The Forgotten Dance

The programme, which was introduced in 2007 in partnership with Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking, has seen 32 young filmmakers embark on successful careers in the industry.