Gqeberha, Eastern Cape - The film industry in Nelson Mandela Bay took center stage during an exciting afternoon of networking, creativity, and inspiration as artists and industry leaders gathered for the Nelson Mandela Bay Film Forum (NMBFF) Open Day. Held at 68 Cape Road, the event attracted creatives from various organizations, all eager to learn more about the burgeoning film scene in the Bay.
The dynamic event was led by the talented and dedicated MC, Khanyisile Mnyaka, who flawlessly introduced each speaker with grace and energy. Kicking off the day, attendees were treated to a screening of the short film Umona, produced by Simphiwe Nqikela. The film captivated the audience with its educational yet entertaining storyline, showcasing a high production standard worthy of public broadcasting.
Following the screening, Sebenzile Zalabe, the charismatic chairman of the NMBFF, took the stage to deliver the main address. With an impressive career that spans working with ONE BLOOD, SABC, and Youth Culture, Sebenzile shared his journey in the arts and his decision to establish his own casting agency. His passion for uniting the creative community of Nelson Mandela Bay was clear as he recounted the birth of the NMBFF in 2024. This new initiative was born out of the need for a local platform, as the existing film forums were scattered across the Eastern Cape.
“We’ve seen amazing things happening in the Bay, but they mostly come and go,” Sebenzile noted, highlighting the transient nature of opportunities in the region. His mission with NMBFF is to create lasting growth and to establish a solid foundation for the film industry in Nelson Mandela Bay. His vision is ambitious but grounded in a commitment to nurturing local talent.
One of the most exciting announcements of the day was the collaboration between NMBFF and MpumaKapa TV (MPKTV). Sebenzile revealed that they have agreed to broadcast quality films from the Eastern Cape, as long as they meet public broadcasting standards. This partnership presents a fantastic opportunity for filmmakers, especially those transitioning from theatre to film, to showcase their work on a larger platform.
Looking into the future, NMBFF is planning a major event—a film festival scheduled for November 23rd and 24th, 2024. The festival will feature key stakeholders like the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), the Mayor’s Office, and a local actress currently based in the USA with the Film and Publication Board also expected to participate. The festival promises to be a significant milestone in the region's cinematic calendar, celebrating and promoting local talent.
Another highlight of the day was the focus on the structural integrity of NMBFF. Sebenzile explained how the forum started by formalizing the basics, such as adhering to broadcasting laws and registering the organization, with the ultimate goal of establishing NMBFF as a strong, lasting institution that unites talent in Nelson Mandela Bay and the greater Eastern Cape.
The audience also heard from Andiswa Manyati, Head of Communications at MPKTV (channel 260), who gave an insightful background on the station’s evolution from BayTV to its current identity. She commended NMBFF’s efforts, emphasizing that the initiative provides an excellent opportunity for MPKTV to source authentic content from all corners of the Eastern Cape. Andiswa also highlighted how MPKTV supports emerging talent by providing them with much-needed exposure.
Mrs Davis, vice chair of the NMBFF board, echoed Andiswa’s sentiments, urging local creatives to seize the opportunity to utilize these platforms to promote their work and celebrate the incredible talent in the region. She encouraged the community to rally behind the NMBFF, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in propelling the film industry forward.
Closing out the event was a crucial talk by Yonela Ndila, an attorney representing Caveat Legal. Yonela shared valuable insights into the legal side of the entertainment industry, discussing the importance of compliance, particularly in relation to personal information and contracts. She stressed the significance of NDAs, copyright laws, and trademarks in protecting the rights of artists. Caveat Legal’s role, she explained, is to ensure that the legal interests of creatives are safeguarded, giving them the security to create freely.
The NMBFF Open Day was a resounding success, offering a glimpse into the exciting future of film and media in Nelson Mandela Bay. It was a celebration of talent, collaboration, and the potential to build a thriving film industry in the Eastern Cape, with the support of stakeholders and the local community. As the event drew to a close, the energy in the room was palpable—this is just the beginning for the NMBFF, and the journey ahead promises to be one of growth, creativity, and unity.
For more info, contact: nmbffa@gmail.com