Putting herself out there has earned Palesa Buyeye an International Emmy Award

Actress and producer Palesa Buyeye won the Young Creatives Award for her film at the International Emmys.

The award ceremony took place in New York City on November 4. News of Palesa scooping an award landed in the TshisaLIVE corridors this week.

Speaking to TshisaLIVE, Palesa said she won the JCS International Young Creatives Emmys Award for her short film Nokuthula Is Missing.

“The film is a symbolic call for change, highlighting the urgency of reform in South Africa’s justice system and addressing the despondency surrounding gender-based violence and femicide. The courageous body of work begs the question: where do we find u’Nokuthula (peace) if not in the hands of those meant to protect us,” she said.

The film was accepted for public voting by the International Academy of Television Arts & Science and JCS International and officially selected by a jury of esteemed international executive producers and showrunners around the globe.

“I couldn't believe we've won. I'm so honoured that they saw potential in us since the film was low budge. I'm so grateful to collaborators Lihle Ngubu (who plays Nokuthula), who is part of Netflix's and Mzansi Magic's Champion, and Prince Mashinini. Doors don't open easily. The experience has taught me to put myself out there,” Palesa said.