Young creatives and aspiring filmmakers are invited to attend the inaugural Connie Chiume Film Festival, taking place at the Sibikwa Arts Centre in Benoni from July 18 to 20.
Hosted by the Connie Chiume Foundation, the festival celebrates the life and legacy of the award-winning actress while serving as a platform to empower the next generation of storytellers.
It aims to provide access, development and nurturing for emerging voices in the film industry, particularly among youth and communities that have historically been underserved.
For Chiume, the venue holds deep personal significance. She began crafting her talent at the Sibikwa Arts Centre as a young performer, sharing the stage with the late Mary Twala under the direction of Sibikwa co-founder Phyllis Klotz.
Connie Chiume’s son, Tumi, Theresa Moila, chairperson of the Connie Chiume Foundation, Chief Whip of the City of Ekurhuleni, Clr Pelisa Nkunjana and Chiume’s son, Nongelo.
Speaking during the media launch held at Sibikwa on June 19, master of ceremonies Itumeleng Bokaba said: “Today marks the beginning of something transformative, a platform that will uplift emerging storytellers, challenge convention and leave a lasting imprint on African cinema.
“This festival is a love letter to communities that have long been overlooked. Connie believed in breaking barriers and creating spaces where young people could dream out loud, and that is what this festival aims to do.”
Sibikwa CEO Caryn Green, said: “Our relationship with Chiume goes back many years. We are thrilled and excited to be partners in this festival because our values align with those of the foundation.”
Daveyton resident, Thembelihle Mahlangu exhibited her work during the Connie Chiume Film Festival launch at Sibikwa Arts Centre on June 19.
Chiume’s son, Nongelo, highlighted the overwhelming support received from civil society, political organisations, the Ekurhuleni Creative Council and others.
“The festival focuses on creating opportunities for young people, encouraging collaboration and providing access to resources that will contribute to the growth of South Africa’s film and television sector. We hope to eventually produce not just the country’s, but the world’s top filmmakers and performers,” he said.
Festival curator Noluthando Rotwane said she was honoured to be part of fulfilling Chiume’s dream. She explained that the films selected for screening explore vital themes such as mental health, xenophobia and identity, and that the festival aims to spark meaningful conversations around these issues.
Among the highlights is What Did You Dream?, a short drama in which Connie Chiume plays Koko, a grandmother whose granddaughter, Boipelo, struggles to remember her dreams. This puts their chances of winning the local Chinese lottery at risk.
Popular actor, Oros Mpofu attended the launch of the Connie Chiume Film Festival.
Displaying some of her work to Connie Chiume’s son, Nongelo, Chief Whip of the City of Ekurhuleni, Councillor Pelisa Nkunjana, and Theresa Moila, Chairperson of the Connie Chiume Foundation, is Tlohiso Moloi of Spruitview.
Sibikwa Arts Centre marimba group entertained guest before the start of the official launch.
Speaking at the media launch of the Connie Chiume Film Festival, held on June 19 at the Sibikwa Arts Centre, is the Chief Whip of the City of Ekurhuleni, Clr Pelisa Nkunjana.
Actress, Itumeleng Bokaba was the master of ceremonies at the launch of the first-ever Connie Chiume Film Festival held at Sibikwa Art Centre on June 19.
Daveyton resident, Shimmane Radinn of African Bags.
Hoping to make Connie Chiume’s dream come true by ensuring the success of the first-ever Connie Chiume Film Festival is the festival’s curator, Noluthando Rotwane.
Connie Chiume ‘s daughter, actress Nothando Mabuza.
Enjoying the soothing sound of marimba is Tshepiso Ndlovu.
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