South African filmmakers shine on global stage

South Africa’s storytelling power took the spotlight on Miami Beach as the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), in partnership with NICE CROWD, proudly announced the winners of the inaugural “South African Stories” Short Film Showcase — a new programme introduced for the 29th edition of the festival.

This landmark initiative will place five emerging South African filmmakers on an international platform in June, showcasing the richness, authenticity and global relevance of Mzansi’s creative voice. Audiences are taken on deeply personal and culturally resonant journeys — and the response has been electric.

The winners truly reflect the extraordinary potential and voice of South African cinema.

Jeff Friday, ABFF founder and CEO of NICE said: “We were blown away by the quality, originality and emotional power of the submissions we received from South Africa this year.”

Meet the visionaries behind the screen:

• Ayanda Halimana, whose short film Sent is making waves, is a prolific writer, producer and commissioning editor with nearly two decades in South Africa’s film and television industry. Her career has spanned SABC, Mzansi Magic, and NFVF training initiatives, now culminating in international recognition.
• Director Kopedi Aphane and writer Nthabiseng Letsoela stunned audiences with the short story Breaking Free, a gripping story of domestic survival and emotional rebirth. Aphane’s bold directorial style is rooted in Soweto’s culture, while Letsoela makes her screenwriting debut with this poignant narrative.
• Donna Sibande, creator of the short story Love Through The Lens, continues to push boundaries with award-winning stories that capture the soul of South Africa. Her previous work has earned accolades at both local and international film festivals.
• Chris Djuma, a published playwright and actor-turned-director, earned top honours for the short story Rearview. His unique vision, honed at the Market Theatre Laboratory and the NFVF Youth Filmmaker Programme, is now being celebrated globally.
• Nondumiso Buthelezi-Masache, producer and director of the short story Umhlaba Wokhokho, is dedicated to amplifying underrepresented narratives. Her film, steeped in history and land justice, echoes the soul of rural South Africa.

South African Stories is more than a film showcase — it’s a cultural bridge, connecting African and African-American creatives while reaffirming that our stories matter everywhere.

The ABFF continues its online screenings via ABFF PLAY from June 16-24, inviting global audiences to experience the bold, brave and beautiful visions of South Africa’s rising stars.

Founded in 1997, ABFF is the leading festival celebrating black film and television. Renowned for discovering and promoting black talent, ABFF has been a launch pad for many of today’s most celebrated artists and storytellers.