Netflix honours the women shaping African stories
Netflix teamed up with the Joburg Film Festival for its 7th edition to celebrate African storytelling and empower women in film.
Netflix has joined forces with the Joburg Film Festival (JFF) to spotlight African women driving the continent’s storytelling renaissance.
The 7th edition of JFF, held under the theme ‘The Golden Thread,‘ celebrated the universal power of stories to connect humanity.
NETFLIX AND AFRICAN CREATORS
This year, Netflix’s participation added a dynamic new energy, showcasing its commitment to African creators and audiences.
Netflix hosted a panel of powerhouse South African women in film, including Connie Ferguson, Gail Mabalane, and Nina Swart.
These trailblazers shared how they are reshaping narratives both locally and globally, according to Variety.
CONNIE FERGUSON AND KINGS OF JOBURG
Connie Ferguson, the celebrated actress and producer, reflected on her groundbreaking role as Karabo in Generations.
“That role changed perceptions about women in corporate spaces,” she noted. Ferguson continues to push boundaries with Netflix’s Kings of Joburg, where she stars as Veronica Masire.
With Season 3 set to launch this year, she remarked, “African stories can be just as gripping as any Hollywood blockbuster.”
GAIL MABALANE ON NETFLIX
Gail Mabalane, known for her riveting performance in Unseen, highlighted the importance of representation.
“Growing up, I wanted to see women standing tall and rising. Now, we’re seeing those stories being told,” she said.
Mabalane’s versatility has also shone in Netflix’s Blood & Water, cementing her as a force in the industry.
DAWN THANDEKA KING’S PASSION FOR STORYTELLING
Dawn Thandeka King, an award-winning actress, shared how her rural upbringing shaped her passion for storytelling.
Reflecting on her role as Mkabayi in Shaka iLembe, she emphasised the need for women to tell their own stories.
“Mkabayi was a kingmaker, yet her story was untold until now,” she said. King will soon star in Netflix’s Go!, premiering on 21 March.
NINA SWART ON WOMEN BEHIND THE CAMERA
Nina Swart, an acclaimed director, stressed the need for growth in opportunities for women behind the camera.
“We need more jobs for women to specialise and excel without compromising quality,” she stated. Swart recently directed Netflix’s romcom series Tuiskoms, showcasing her ability to elevate local narratives.
The panel was a call to action for more inclusive storytelling. Netflix’s involvement at JFF signals its dedication to amplifying African voices.
NETFLIX AND SOUTH AFRICA
Ben Amadasun, Netflix’s VP for Africa and the Middle East described Johannesburg as pivotal to South Africa’s film sector. Ben reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to local creators.
With investments exceeding R3 billion in Africa since 2016, Netflix is helping usher in a golden age of African storytelling, according to IMDB.
Initiatives like its partnership with UNESCO on African Folktales Reimagined further demonstrate its dedication to preserving cultural heritage while modernising narratives.
AFRICAN STORIES
The Joburg Film Festival and Netflix have proven that African stories resonate globally when told authentically.
As Connie Ferguson aptly put it, “Our stories matter.”
With platforms like JFF and Netflix championing these narratives, South Africa is poised to remain at the forefront of this storytelling revolution, according to Business Insider.
This collaboration not only celebrates talent but also inspires future generations of filmmakers.
By weaving together diverse voices into a single golden thread, African storytelling continues to captivate hearts worldwide.
WHAT ROLE DO YOU BELIEVE PLATFORMS LIKE NETFLIX PLAY IN AMPLIFYING LOCAL NARRATIVES?
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