Children’s drama with soul scoops awards

Recognition in the US International Film And Video Festival represents one of the world's highest honours in audio visual competition. It measures creative expertise while enabling international recognition in a highly respected forum. The awards ceremony will be held 12 June 2004, In Los Angeles, California.

"The award affirms the team effort that goes into making sure we produce educational but entertaining programmes. It is also confirms South Africa's ability to compete on the international market," says Aadielah Maker, Senior Manager for Soul Buddyz.

The winning episode tells the story of Thulane, a young teenager who dreams of becoming a photographer when he leaves school. Thulane feels that he is not welcome in his family, especially by his father. He hangs out with gangsters, who convince him to smoke mandrax and to steal a computer from his school. In this episode, Thulane is caught. The episode deals with decision making around the use of substances from the perspective of children.

The series, developed jointly by the Soul City Institute for Health and Development Communication (IHDC) and SABC Education is currently being re-broadcast on SABC 1 on Wednesday's at 18:30.

Soul Buddyz 2, is a complete package of radio, television drama and print materials for 8 to 12 year olds focusing on children's rights, HIV/AIDS, racism & xenophobia, the environment and substance misuse. Soul Buddyz gives voice to young children facing real issues in today's world.

Last year, this groundbreaking South African production was awarded 'Best Children's Drama in Africa' and 'Best Edutainment in Africa' at the Children's Broadcasting Foundation for Africa (CBFA) - Sithengi 2003 Children's Festival. It also took this year's Commonwealth Broadcasting Association (CBA) prize for Outstanding Local Children's Programme.