2025 Archive
Durban FilmMart Annual Market
DFM 2025 Physical Event Audio Recordings
Day 1
Playlist
14 Videos
43:35
44:10
59:57
1:30:15
41:24
46:51
1:00:35
53:22
57:33
59:17
42:13
44:04
49:14
46:33
Day 2
Playlist
11 Videos
40:31
1:26:56
44:22
59:44
54:09
36:31
42:37
47:10
39:25
54:23
42:26
Day 3
Playlist
11 Videos
38:23
1:07:23
34:48
29:43
31:52
58:45
44:08
28:56
44:04
24:15
45:56
Day 4
Playlist
4 Videos
58:20
1:01:05
45:12
55:08
Speakers
| First Name(s) | Last Name | Company | Session(s) Name | Role at the 2025 DFM Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adel | Ksiksi | Al Jazeera | Bridges Take Many Hands and Bricks to Build | Power of Programming: Programming for Global Connection | Panellist |
| Ahmed | Shawky | FIPRESCI | Understanding the Current Film Media Landscape | Panellist |
| Akunna | Cook | Next Narrative Africa | Accessing the Next Narrative Africa Fund | Talking Cents: Talking Private Equity Partners | Panellist |
| Alex Dean | Fynn | Rain Animals | Thuthuka Showcase Pitching Session | Panellist |
| Aliou Kéba | Badiane | FOPICA | Collaborating with the Film Industry in Senegal | Panellist |
| Anthony | Silverston | Triggerfish | Animation@DFM: Expanding the Frame - Building Bridges for Gender Inclusivity in Animation | Moderator |
| Arya | Lalloo | Opia Films | Think Tank: Global South Activities and Initiatives Towards Archival Justice (Closed Session) | Moderator |
| Ashraf | Dowani | MINUS 40 | Palestine Film Institute Showcase | Panellist |
| Avuzwa | Ntshongwana | Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct | Animation@DFM: How Can Smaller Animation Studios Remain Sustainable? | The Future of Female Filmmakers: Trends and Opportunities | Panellist |
| Ayanda | Sibisi | Independent Producers Organisation | IP Ownership- Resistance- and Global Access: Navigating the Future of African Filmmaking in the Age of Streaming | Moderator |
| Bongani | Morgan | 4th Avenue Pictures | Talking Cents: Blockchain Financing for Film | Panellist |
| Bongi | Ndaba | Writers Guild of South Africa | The African Aesthetic: What Makes African Stories Unique? | Moderator |
| Bonie | Sithebe | DURBAN MOTION PICTURES | Marketing and Distribution Tactics for Made-for-TV Productions. This session is presented by the Durban Film Office. | Speaker |
| Bruno | Felix | Submarine | Masterclass: Bridging 9-000 KM: The Art of Co-Producing Animation Between Europe and Africa | Speaker |
| Busisiwe | Ntintili | The Ntintili Factory | The African Aesthetic: What Makes African Stories Unique? | Panellist |
| Carlynn | de Waal-Smit | South African Guild of Actors | The Disabled Actors Database: Shining the Spotlight on our Talent | Panellist |
| Caroline | Vos | Triggerfish | Animation@DFM: Expanding the Frame - Building Bridges for Gender Inclusivity in Animation | Panellist |
| Charlene | Mangweni-Furusa | Motion Zebra | Bridges Not Borders: How Zimbabwe is using Collaborative Frameworks to Build Local Capacity in the Film Industry | Moderator |
| Cindy | Makandi | Tunga Media Afrika | Distribution for Impact and Income | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Claire | Diao | Sudu Connexion | Durban Does Docs: Beyond the Box Office - Impact-Driven Distribution for African Documentaries | Understanding the Current Film Media Landscape | Moderator |
| Claye | Edou | Cledley Productions | Animation Day: Q&A with Claye Edou | Animation@DFM: How Can Smaller Animation Studios Remain Sustainable? | Panellist |
| Damilola | Aleje | MTN Hyper-local Content Investment through studios | Powering Africa’s Stories: MTN’s Investment in Local Content- Platforms and Creative Ecosystems | Panellist |
| Darcy | Heusel | Next Narrative Africa | Accessing the Next Narrative Africa Fund | Panellist |
| Dhia | Jerbi | Archive Circulation Initiative/ Afro+ Producers' League/ Muja Films | Durban Does Docs: Ethical Collaborations in Documentary Film Practice | Panellist |
| Dianne | Makings | Fancy Horse Studios | Animation Day: Welcome and Studio Spolight: Discussion with Fancy Horse Studios | Animation@DFM: How Can Smaller Animation Studios Remain Sustainable? | Moderator |
| Dominic | Davis | Sundance Institute | Talking Cents: The Future of Grant Funding for African Films | Panellist |
| Domoina | Ratsara | FIPRESCI | Understanding the Current Film Media Landscape | Panellist |
| Dora | Bouchoucha | NOMADIS IMAGES | In Conversation with Dora Bouchoucha | Speaker |
| Dr. Karabo | Maiyane | South African Cultural Observatory | Copyright and Your Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence | Panellist |
| Dr. Liani | Maasdorp | Climate Story Lab ZA / University of Cape Town | Distribution for Impact and Income | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Dr. Nozipo J. | Maraire | National Arts Council of Zimbabwe | Bridges Not Borders: How Zimbabwe is using Collaborative Frameworks to Build Local Capacity in the Film Industry | Panellist |
| Dr. Sogen | Moodley | Durban Coalition | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Ellen | Havenith | Third Wheel | Thuthuka Showcase Pitching Session | Panellist |
| Emad | Eskander | Red Sea Film Fund | Talking Cents: The Future of Grant Funding for African Films | Panellist |
| Emily | Wanja | DocSociety | Distribution for Impact and Income | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Fabacary Assymby | Coly | LOGUISS CINEPROD | Collaborating with the Film Industry in Senegal | Panellist |
| Fabio | Ribeiro | Rede de Cinema e Audiovisual PALOP | An African Model: Authentic Voices in Mentoring - Telling Our Stories Our Way | Panellist |
| Farai | Ncube | British Council | Talking Cents: The Future of Grant Funding for African Films | Panellist |
| Farren van | Niekerk | Irish MacLeod Inc. | Copyright and Your Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence | IP Ownership- Resistance- and Global Access: Navigating the Future of African Filmmaking in the Age of Streaming | Masterclass: Own Your Work - Mastering Contracts in the Creative Industries | Speaker/Panellist |
| Francis Y. | Brown | AnimaxFYB Studios | Animation@DFM: How Can Smaller Animation Studios Remain Sustainable? | Panellist |
| Funmbi | Ogunbanwo | My Father’s Shadow | Film as a Tool for Reimagining Africa | Panellist |
| Gabe | Gabriel | Write Paper Scissors | The African Aesthetic: What Makes African Stories Unique? | Panellist |
| Gugu | Kunene | Love me a little- but love me long | Spotlight on Durban Projects | Panellist |
| Guy | Steer | Rechord Post | Masterclass: Good Sound Starts Before the Mix - How to get the Best out of your Sound - Pre-Production Planning- Production Support and Post-Production | Speaker |
| Hamid | Ibrahim | Kugali | Animation@DFM: How Can Smaller Animation Studios Remain Sustainable? | Panellist |
| Hanna | Attallah | FilmLab Palestine | Durban Does Docs: Your Wellbeing as a Documentary Filmmaker | Working Together as the Network of Arab Alternative Screens (NAAS) | Panellist |
| Happiness | Mpase | Love Chase | Spotlight on Durban Projects | Panellist |
| Heba | Othman | Heba Othman | African Editor Organisations Talking Together- Towards Working Together | Panellist |
| Ibrahim | Ahmed | In Deep Visions | Durban Does Docs: Ethical Collaborations in Documentary Film Practice | Working Together as the Network of Arab Alternative Screens (NAAS) | Panellist |
| Isaac | Mogajane | Diprente | Masterclass: Bridging 9-000 KM: The Art of Co-Producing Animation Between Europe and Africa | Speaker |
| Isabelle | Rorke | Animation SA / Dreamforge Creative Pty Ltd | AI's Impact in Production Processes from Writing- Performance- Animation and Editing | Panellist |
| Jack | Devnarain | South African Guild of Actors | AI's Impact in Production Processes from Writing- Performance- Animation and Editing | Moderator |
| Jeanne | Deny | MAD Solutions | Durban Does Docs: Beyond the Box Office - Impact-Driven Distribution for African Documentaries | Exhibitors and Distributors: Who is Building and Furnishing a Home for Global South Content? | Panellist |
| Jennifer | Ochieng | Sinema Focus | Understanding the Current Film Media Landscape | Panellist |
| Jihan | El-Tahri | Big Sister Productions | Palestine Film Institute Showcase | Talking Cents: A New Black Film Ecosystem | Panellist/Moderator |
| Joel | Chikapa-Phiri | Known Associates Group | Talking Cents: A New Black Film Ecosystem | Unlocking Global Funding for Black Cinema | Panellist |
| Johan | Steyn | AI for Business | AI's Impact in Production Processes from Writing- Performance- Animation and Editing | Panellist |
| Jon-Sesrie | Goff | Ford Foundation | Talking Cents: The Future of Grant Funding for African Films | Panellist |
| Josephine | Mlanda-Zvikaramba | Zimbabwe Film and Television School of Southern Africa | Bridges Not Borders: How Zimbabwe is using Collaborative Frameworks to Build Local Capacity in the Film Industry | Panellist |
| Jozua | Malherbe | DGSA | Directors as Architects of Cultural Narratives: Bridging Histories- Markets- and Audiences | Panellist |
| Kadeem A. | Maxwell | Melomax Productions | I.M.P.A.C.T: Owning the Future - Black Producers Bridging Worlds Through I.M.P.A.C.T | Panellist |
| Kagisho | Bapela | Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) | Unlocking Global Funding for Black Cinema | Panellist |
| Karen | Jeynes | DAWN | The Disabled Actors Database: Shining the Spotlight on our Talent | Moderator |
| Kathryn | Fasegha | BalminGilead Movie Productions (Canada) LTD | I.M.P.A.C.T: Owning the Future - Black Producers Bridging Worlds Through I.M.P.A.C.T | Panellist |
| Kesolofetse | Mogale | Native Games Publishing | Transmedia Storytelling: Expanding Horizons Through Animation and Gaming | Panellist |
| Kethiwe | Ngcobo | IBFC - Izimbali Wellness Programme | Durban Does Docs: Your Wellbeing as a Documentary Filmmaker | Panellist |
| Khalid | Shamis | RoughCutLabAfrica | African Editor Organisations Talking Together- Towards Working Together | Durban Does Docs: Ethical Collaborations in Documentary Film Practice | Moderator |
| Khosie | Dali | Miss K Productions | Talking Cents: Talking Private Equity Partners | Panellist |
| Kira | Erwin | GroundWorks | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Kumbi | Chitenderu | Triggerfish | Animation@DFM: Expanding the Frame - Building Bridges for Gender Inclusivity in Animation | Panellist |
| Laurent | Sicouri | Canal + | Exhibitors and Distributors: Who is Building and Furnishing a Home for Global South Content? | Panellist |
| Lebo | Leitch | XR Native | Transmedia Storytelling: Expanding Horizons Through Animation and Gaming | Panellist |
| Lerato | Mogoatlhe | Africa No Filter | Film as a Tool for Reimagining Africa | Panellist |
| Louiza | Ndung'u | AFEK | African Editor Organisations Talking Together- Towards Working Together | Panellist |
| Louw | Venter | Rain Animals | Thuthuka Showcase Pitching Session | Panellist |
| Lucía Galarza | Suárez | Mullu TV | Durban Does Docs: Ethical Collaborations in Documentary Film Practice | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | Latin American Visions | Panellist |
| Maganthrie | Pillay | Masala Film Works | Unlocking Global Funding for Black Cinema | Moderator |
| Mai | El-Gammal | NAAS | Power of Programming: Programming for Global Connection | Moderator |
| Malibongwe | Nzuza | IDC | Industrial Development Corporation Engagement with Industry | Speaker |
| Mamadou Khouma | Gueye | Plan B Films Senegal | Collaborating with the Film Industry in Senegal | Panellist |
| Mamounata | Nikiéma | Pilumpiku Production | An African Model: Authentic Voices in Mentoring - Telling Our Stories Our Way | Panellist |
| Manyatsa | Nkutha | IDC | Industrial Development Corporation Engagement with Industry | Speaker |
| Marcela | Lizcano | Nodo Sur | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | Latin American Visions | Think Tank: Collaborations in the Global South (closed session) | Panellist/Moderator |
| Marco | Orsini | MoJo Entertainment- LLC | Masterclass: Now What?! A Case Study on 'God’s Work' - A Post Production Journey | Talking Cents: Talking Private Equity Partners | Panellist |
| Maria | Gomez | DW Akademie | Latin American Visions | Moderator |
| Marion | Schmidt | DW Akademie / DocSafe | Durban Does Docs: Your Wellbeing as a Documentary Filmmaker | Moderator |
| May | Jabareen | Ping-Pong | Palestine Film Institute Showcase | Panellist |
| Melissa | Parry | South African Guild of Editors | African Editor Organisations Talking Together- Towards Working Together | Panellist |
| Mercy | Wanjiku | Docubox | Film as a Tool for Reimagining Africa | Panellist |
| Michael | Broomberg | MB Sound Foley | Masterclass: Good Sound Starts Before the Mix - How to get the Best out of your Sound - Pre-Production Planning- Production Support and Post-Production | Speaker |
| Miki | Redelinghuys | Climate Story Lab/Plexus Films | Distribution for Impact and Income | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist/Moderator |
| Mitchell | Harper | Ctrl. Alt. Shift | In Conversation with Dora Bouchoucha | In Conversation with Ramadan Suleman | In Conversation with Roger Ross Williams | Roundtable: Advancing Inclusive Co-Production in Africa (Closed Session) | Moderator |
| Mmabatho | Kau | Raindrop Media | An African Model: Authentic Voices in Mentoring - Telling Our Stories Our Way | The African Aesthetic: What Makes African Stories Unique? | Panellist |
| Mmabatho | Montsho | Documentary Filmmakers' Association/Mmonday Pictures | Bridges Take Many Hands and Bricks to Build | Moderator |
| Mohamed | Jabaly | Palestine Film Institute | Durban Does Docs: Your Wellbeing as a Documentary Filmmaker | Working Together as the Network of Arab Alternative Screens (NAAS) | Panellist |
| Mohamed Saïd | Ouma | Documentary Africa | Durban Does Docs: Beyond the Box Office - Impact-Driven Distribution for African Documentaries | Talking Cents: A New Black Film Ecosystem | Moderator |
| Monde | Twala | Paramount Africa | Bridges Take Many Hands and Bricks to Build | Exhibitors and Distributors: Who is Building and Furnishing a Home for Global South Content? | Panellist |
| Moustapha | Sawadogo | FESPACO | Power of Programming: Programming for Global Connection | Panellist |
| Mpumi | Mazibuko | Independent legal business consultant | Copyright and Your Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence | Moderator |
| Mxolisi | Xaba | Native Games Publishing | Transmedia Storytelling: Expanding Horizons Through Animation and Gaming | Panellist |
| Nada | Bakr | NAAS | Power of Programming: Programming for Global Connection | Working Together as the Network of Arab Alternative Screens (NAAS) | Panellist/Moderator |
| Nadia | Darries | Goon Valley Animation | Animation@DFM: Expanding the Frame - Building Bridges for Gender Inclusivity in Animation | Panellist |
| Nafia | Kocks | Holocene Films | Talking Cents: Blockchain Financing for Film | Panellist |
| Naomi | Gumede | Retirement From War | Spotlight on Durban Projects | Panellist |
| Nasreen | Al-Amin | Surge Africa | Distribution for Impact and Income | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Natalie | Paneng | Hello Nice Online | The Future of Female Filmmakers: Trends and Opportunities | Panellist |
| Neil | Brandt | Storyscope | Bridges Take Many Hands and Bricks to Build | Talking Cents: Talking Private Equity Partners | Panellist/Moderator |
| Nicky | Scheepers | Ster-Kinekor Theatres | Exhibitors and Distributors: Who is Building and Furnishing a Home for Global South Content? | Panellist |
| Nisha | Naidoo | The Creative Advantage/Durban University of Technology | Talking Cents: Blockchain Financing for Film | Moderator |
| Nocks | Chatiza | Independent Filmmaker | Bridges Not Borders: How Zimbabwe is using Collaborative Frameworks to Build Local Capacity in the Film Industry | Panellist |
| Noluthando | Mnguni | Sisters Working in Film and Television | The Future of Female Filmmakers: Trends and Opportunities | Moderator |
| Oumou Diegane | Niang | WAWKUMBA Films | Collaborating with the Film Industry in Senegal | Panellist |
| Pape | Boye | Black Mic Mac | Talking Cents: Talking Private Equity Partners | Panellist |
| Paul | Garnes | ARRAY | Talking Cents: A New Black Film Ecosystem | Panellist |
| Paul | Robinson | NEFTi | NEFTi: The Art of Guerilla Filmmaking | Moderator |
| Pepsi | Pokane | Stained Glass TV | IP Ownership- Resistance- and Global Access: Navigating the Future of African Filmmaking in the Age of Streaming | Panellist |
| Pete | Murimi | BBC Eye on Africa | Bridges Take Many Hands and Bricks to Build | Distribution for Impact and Income | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Raihaanah | Sayed | Raihaanah Mateenah | Directors as Architects of Cultural Narratives: Bridging Histories- Markets- and Audiences | Panellist |
| Rama | Thiaw | Boul Fallé Images | Collaborating with the Film Industry in Senegal | Moderator |
| Ramadan | Suleman | Natives at Large | In Conversation with Ramadan Suleman | Speaker |
| Rea | Moeti-Vogt | Third Wheel | Thuthuka Showcase Pitching Session | Panellist |
| Reem | Maged | Cimatheque – Alternative Film Centre | Exhibitors and Distributors: Who is Building and Furnishing a Home for Global South Content? | Working Together as the Network of Arab Alternative Screens (NAAS) | Panellist |
| Refuwe | Thubela | Lawyers for the Arts South Africa | Copyright and Your Creativity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence | Masterclass: Own Your Work - Mastering Contracts in the Creative Industries | Speaker/Panellist |
| Richard | Lothian | Richard Lothian Casting | The Disabled Actors Database: Shining the Spotlight on our Talent | Panellist |
| Robyn | Phillips | DGSA | Directors as Architects of Cultural Narratives: Bridging Histories- Markets- and Audiences | Panellist |
| Rodrigo | Díaz Díaz | Taturana | Distribution for Impact and Income | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | Latin American Visions | Think Tank: Collaborations in the Global South (closed session) | Panellist/Moderator |
| Roger Ross | Williams | One Story Up Productions | In Conversation with Roger Ross Williams | Panellist |
| Russel | Hlongwane | SubstancePoint | Exhibitors and Distributors: Who is Building and Furnishing a Home for Global South Content? | Film as a Tool for Reimagining Africa | Meet the Film Festivals | Moderator |
| Saleh | Saadi | Ping-Pong | Palestine Film Institute Showcase | Panellist |
| Salym | Fayad | MUICA African Film Festival | Power of Programming: Programming for Global Connection | Panellist |
| Sam | Soko | LBx Africa/ The Whickers | Durban Does Docs: Beyond the Box Office - Impact-Driven Distribution for African Documentaries | Durban Does Docs: Your Wellbeing as a Documentary Filmmaker | Panellist |
| Samantha | Kaine | I.M.P.A.C.T | I.M.P.A.C.T: Owning the Future - Black Producers Bridging Worlds Through I.M.P.A.C.T | Talking Cents: A New Black Film Ecosystem | Panellist/Moderator |
| Samir | Salem | Permission To Narrate | Palestine Film Institute Showcase | Panellist |
| Sarah | Summers | STEPS | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Sébastien | Onomo | Special Touch Studios | Masterclass: A Special Touch with Sébastien Onomo | Speaker |
| Selin | Murat | IDFA Bertha Fund | Talking Cents: The Future of Grant Funding for African Films | Panellist |
| Sihle | Mthembu | Auteur Studios | Accessing the Next Narrative Africa Fund | Powering Africa’s Stories: MTN’s Investment in Local Content- Platforms and Creative Ecosystems | Moderator |
| Simon | Makwela | SAGE/Maureen Grace Investments | AI's Impact in Production Processes from Writing- Performance- Animation and Editing | Panellist |
| Simon | Manda | DAWN | The Disabled Actors Database: Shining the Spotlight on our Talent | Panellist |
| Sithabile | Mkhize | Maverick Resistance Productions | Masterclass: Now What?! A Case Study on 'God’s Work' - A Post Production Journey | Panellist |
| Siyabonga | Jim | DGSA | Directors as Architects of Cultural Narratives: Bridging Histories- Markets- and Audiences | Panellist |
| Siyasaanga | Sityana | DGSA | Directors as Architects of Cultural Narratives: Bridging Histories- Markets- and Audiences | Moderator |
| Siza | Mukwedini | Matamba Film Labs for Women | Bridges Not Borders: How Zimbabwe is using Collaborative Frameworks to Build Local Capacity in the Film Industry | Panellist |
| Souleymane | Kebe | SUNUY Films and ASTOU Films | Collaborating with the Film Industry in Senegal | Panellist |
| Susan | Mbogo | Docubox - EADFF | Distribution for Impact and Income | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | POP UP: Climate Cine-Bar | Panellist |
| Sydelle Willow | Smith | Sunshine Cinema | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | Panellist |
| Tarha | McKenzie | Climate Story Lab ZA/ Encounters South African International Documentary Festival | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | Moderator |
| Tassyn | Fynn | Rain Animals | Thuthuka Showcase Pitching Session | Panellist |
| Temilola | Adebayo | Rellow Media Inc. | I.M.P.A.C.T: Owning the Future - Black Producers Bridging Worlds Through I.M.P.A.C.T | Panellist |
| Tendayi | Nyeke | - | Film as a Tool for Reimagining Africa | Panellist |
| Thandeka | Zwana | Indigenous Film Distribution | IP Ownership- Resistance- and Global Access: Navigating the Future of African Filmmaking in the Age of Streaming | Panellist |
| Themba | Buyeye | Pheku Motion Company | Transmedia Storytelling: Expanding Horizons Through Animation and Gaming | Panellist |
| Theresa | Hill | STEPS | Durban Does Docs: Beyond the Box Office - Impact-Driven Distribution for African Documentaries | Panellist |
| Thihangwi | Ramutsindela | Climate Story Lab ZA | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | Panellist |
| Thuli | Zuma | Stained Glass TV | The African Aesthetic: What Makes African Stories Unique? | Panellist |
| Tiny | Mungwe | Ctrl. Alt. Shift | An African Model: Authentic Voices in Mentoring - Telling Our Stories Our Way | Roundtable: Advancing Inclusive Co-Production in Africa (Closed Session) | Spotlight on Durban Projects | Moderator |
| Toni | Monty | A.M. Afrika | Thuthuka Showcase Pitching Session | Moderator |
| Tracey-Lee | Rainers | Story Oasis | Animation@DFM: Expanding the Frame - Building Bridges for Gender Inclusivity in Animation | The Future of Female Filmmakers: Trends and Opportunities | Panellist |
| Tsakani | Shibe | MTN Overall Content Strategy | Powering Africa’s Stories: MTN’s Investment in Local Content- Platforms and Creative Ecosystems | Panellist |
| Tshepiso | Chikapa-Phiri | Known Associates Group | Unlocking Global Funding for Black Cinema | Panellist |
| Tshepo | Moche | Play Nice Pictures | Animation@DFM: Expanding the Frame - Building Bridges for Gender Inclusivity in Animation | Panellist |
| Tzutzumatzin | Soto | Documental Ambulante A.C. | Impact Cafe: One-on-One | Latin American Visions | Power of Programming: Programming for Global Connection | Panellist |
| Unathi | Malunga | SASFED | State of the South African Audio-Visual Sector (Closed Session) | Moderator |
| Vanessa Ann | Sinden | Triggerfish | Animation@DFM: Expanding the Frame - Building Bridges for Gender Inclusivity in Animation | Panellist |
| Vicky | Plancher | Mare Rouge Entertainment | I.M.P.A.C.T: Owning the Future - Black Producers Bridging Worlds Through I.M.P.A.C.T | Panellist |
| Vikash | Barath | MTN TV - Platform Strategy | Powering Africa’s Stories: MTN’s Investment in Local Content- Platforms and Creative Ecosystems | Panellist |
| Weaam | Williams | Holocene Films | Talking Cents: Blockchain Financing for Film | Panellist |
| Wilson | Nyah | NYANU INVESTMENT SERVICES | Talking Cents: Talking Private Equity Partners | Panellist |
| Xolile | Vundla | Animation SA | Transmedia Storytelling: Expanding Horizons Through Animation and Gaming | Moderator |
| Yashika | Singh | SABC | Bridges Take Many Hands and Bricks to Build | Panellist |
| Yolisa | Letshwene | DGSA | Directors as Architects of Cultural Narratives: Bridging Histories- Markets- and Audiences | Panellist |
| Zoe | Ramushu | Wrapped | An African Model: Authentic Voices in Mentoring - Telling Our Stories Our Way | Talking Cents: The Future of Grant Funding for African Films | Panellist/Moderator |
| Zonke | Nyandeni | Richard Lothian Casting | The Disabled Actors Database: Shining the Spotlight on our Talent | Panellist |
DFM 2025 Project Dossier
Think Tank Reports
Awards 2025
Wrapped Talent Press Prize
Winner: Tshi Malatji (South Africa)
Prize:
Press and publicity support.
Talent Press Award Supported by FIPRESCI
Winner: Alice Johnson (Ghana)
Prize:
1 Year Membership to FIPRESCI.
Isiziba Award (Stained Glass TV)
Isiziba, meaning “a still and sacred water source,” reflects the quiet depth and potential of emerging talent — those still waters that run deep.
Winner: Watching over you (South Africa)
Director Stephen Nagel
Prize:
40 hours of executive development and consultancy for a Talents Durban Story Junction participant.
Triggerfish Mentorship Award
Winner: Aisha Qandicha (Morocco)
Producer: Alyssa Harden
Director: Fatima Mahdar
Prize:
6-month mentorship of one-on-one sessions covering all the aspects of development, production and business/marketing for their project.
Impronta Films Consultancy Award
Winner: Planet Carnival (South Africa)
Producer: Thandi Davids
Co-producer: Luana Rocha
Director: Kurt Orderson
Prize:
Consultancy Award offering up to 4 sessions over a 12 month period, for two documentary projects in development.
Impronta Films Consultancy Award
Winner: Vuka (South Africa)
Producer: Rehad Desai
Director: Matthew Robinson
Prize:
Consultancy Award offering up to 4 sessions over a 12 month period, for two documentary projects in development.
Women Make Movies Award
Winner: Plastic Atlantis (Cape Verde)
Director: Samira Vera-Cruz
Prize:
Acceptance into the Production Assistance Program, which includes the following additional benefits: Fiscal sponsorship, allowing filmmakers to raise grants in the U.S.
Individualized fundraising, distribution, and ongoing project consultations, including feedback on rough cuts. A project page on WMM’s website to facilitate online donations. Access to WMM’s catalogue of more than 700 films. Social media support for crowdfunding campaigns, screenings, and events. Promotion of the completed film. One year of free WMM webinar on the business side of the business and case studies. Scheduled use of WMM’s NYC office, including the conference room for meetings or rough-cut screenings.
TFL Next IEFTA Award (supported by IEFTA)
Winner: Nomvula (She Who Brings the Rain) (South Africa)
Producer: Kethiwe Ngcobo
Director: Sibusiso Khuzwayo
Prize:
Invitation to Film online workshop in 2025.
Fak’ugesi Residency Award
Winner: Kamaroza (Egypt)
Producer: Nouran Abdallah
Directors: Ahmad Abdelhameed, Islam Mazhar
Studio: Samaka
Prize:
Participation in the Residency Programme.
EURODOC Award
Winner: The Salt of the South (Tunisia)
Producer: Ramzi Laâmouri
Director: Rami Jarboui
Prize:
Tuition and residential fees for one session in Euro Doc 2026 and 12 months-long membership.
DocA Award
Winner: Plastic Atlantis (Cape Verde)
Producer: Pedro Soulé
Director: Samira Vera-Cruz
Prize:
Consultation, training and granting of the impact campaign.
MAD Solutions Award
Winner: Ping Pong (Palestine)
Producer: May Jabareen
Director: Saleh Saadi
Prize:
Sales and Distribution of one project in the Arab world. The award was presented to a project from the Palestine Film Institute Spotlight, presented at DFM 2025.
DOK.fest München Award
Winner: Golden (Zimbabwe)
Producers: Rumbi Katedza, Ingrid Martens
Director: Rumbi Katedza
Prize:
Accreditation and accommodation to participate in the DOK.forum Marketplace 2026 (DOK Co-Pro Market or in DOK Preview Training).
The DOK Leipzig Award
Winner: Akal (Morocco)
Producer: Karim Debbagh
Director: Basma Rkioui
Prize:
Accreditation and accommodation to participate in DOK Leipzig 2025.
Sheffield Doc Fest Award
Winner: Plastic Atlantis (Cape Verde).
Producer: Pedro Soulé
Director: Samira Vera-Cruz
Prize:
Accreditation and accommodation to participate in Sheffield Doc Fest 2026.
Visions du Reel Award
Winner: Akal (Morocco)
Producer: Karim Debbagh
Director: Basma Rkioui
Prize:
Accreditation and accommodation to participate in the Visions du Reel Market 2026 (presentation in the Marketplace Pitching/Roundtables / One-on-One Meetings).
Animation Production Days (APD) Award
Winner: Tribe (South Africa)
Producer: Debbie Crosscup
Director: Tendayi Nyeke
Prize:
Accreditation and accommodation to participate in Animation Production Days 2026.
Rotterdam Lab Award
Winner: Space Maasai (Tanzania)
Producer: Wilson Nkya
Director: Priscilla Marealle
Prize:
Accreditation and accommodation to participate in the Rotterdam Lab 2026.
The FIDADOC Award
Winner: KUMFOGA (Togo)
Director: Dissirama Bessoga
Prize:
Flights and accommodation to participate in FIDADOC Pan African Writing Residency 2026.
El Gouna Film Festival Award
Winner: The Salt of the South (Tunisia)
Producer: Ramzi Laâmouri
Director: Rami Jarboui
Prize:
Flights and accommodation to participate in CineGouna 2025.
Sørfond Award
Winner: Baptism of Silence (South Africa)
Producer: Casey Diepeveen
Directors: Kanya Viljoen, Emilie Badenhorst
Prize:
Flights and accommodation to participate in the Sørfond Pitch 2025.
DFM Talents Durban Award
Winner: DESIGNING DIVIDE (South Africa)
Director: Jessie Ayles
Prize:
Flights and accommodation to participate in DFM Pitch and Finance Forum 2026.
Wrapped Talents Durban Prize
Winner: TRUCKER MAN (South Africa)
Director: Shiefaa Hendricks
Prize:
R10,000 cash prize; One-year Premium Subscription to Wrapped; and Featured spotlight on Wrapped.
Hot Docs-Blue Ice Docs Award
Winner: Climbing the Mountains (Algeria)
Producers: Kenji Accard, Sabrina Chebbi
Co-producer: Oualid Baha
Director: Sabrina Chebbi
Prize:
Award of $2,000 CAD.
OIF-ACP-EU Award
Winner: Plastic Atlantis (Cape Verde)
Producer: Pedro Soulé
Director: Samira Vera-Cruz
Prize:
Award of €2,500.
The Whickers Bursary Award
Winner: Vuka (South Africa)
Producer: Rehad Desai
Director: Matthew Robinson
Prize:
Award of £3,000 for a first-time feature documentary director.
Sundance Institute Documentary Fund New Voices Award
Winner: Plastic Atlantis (Cape Verde)
Producer: Pedro Soulé
Director: Samira Vera-Cruz
Prize:
Grant of $5,000.
MTN Group Digital Award
Winner: Nomvula (She Who Brings the Rain) (South Africa)
Producer: Kethiwe Ngcobo
Director: Sibusiso Khuzwayo
Prize:
Award of $5,000.
TRT Award
Winner: The Guardian (Libya, Algeria, Canada)
Producer: Lynda Belkhiria
Director: Muhannad Lamin
Prize:
Award of $5,000.
CANAL+ Development Grant
Winner: Golden (Zimbabwe)
Producers: Rumbi Katedza, Ingrid Martens
Director: Rumbi Katedza
Prize:
Development Grant of €5,000 with a development contract.
Inkaba Award (Stained Glass TV) Award
Inkaba, meaning “navel” or “origin,” speaks to where stories are birthed — a fitting symbol for bold new work seeking financing and co-production support.
Winner: The Second Coming (South Africa)
Producer: Siyabonga Xaba
Director: Michael James
Prize:
Award of $5,000 and consulting time.
Climate Story Labs Award
The award is on behalf of Climate Story Labs Africa and Doc Society, in collaboration with UMI Fund.
Winner: Plastic Atlantis (Cape Verde)
Producer: Pedro Soulé
Director: Samira Vera-Cruz
Prize:
Award of $10,000.
Al Jazeera Co-production Award
Winner: Climbing the Mountains (Algeria)
Producers: Kenji Accard, Sabrina Chebbi
Co-producer: Oualid Baha
Director: Sabrina Chebbi
Prize:
Award of $10,000.
Red Sea Film Fund Award
Winner: Climbing the Mountains (Algeria)
Producers: Kenji Accard, Sabrina Chebbi
Co-producer: Oualid Baha
Director: Sabrina Chebbi
Prize:
Award of $5,000.
Red Sea Film Fund Award
Winner: The Second Coming (South Africa)
Producer: Siyabonga Xaba
Director: Michael James
Prize:
Award of $5,000.
Red Sea Film Fund Award
Winner: Golden (Zimbabwe)
Producers: Rumbi Katedza, Ingrid Martens
Director: Rumbi Katedza
Prize:
Award of $5,000.
Best Animation Grant National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)
Winner: Crocodile Dance (South Africa, Nigeria)
Producer: Ingrid de Beer
Directors: Shofela Coker, Nadia Darries
Prize:
Grant of R100,000.
Best Non-Fiction Grant National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)
Winner: The Salt of the South (Tunisia)
Producer: Ramzi Laâmouri
Director: Rami Jarboui
Prize:
Grant of R100,000.
Best Fiction Grant National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF)
Winner: The Second Coming (South Africa)
Producer: Siyabonga Xaba
Director: Michael James
Prize:
Grant of R100,000.
DFM Pitch and Finance 2025 Project Selection
Animation Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Aisha Qandicha (Morocco) – Director: Fatima Ezzahra Mahdar, Producer: Alyssa Harden, Executive Producer: Kris Pearn |
Au Nom Du Roi Njoya (In The Name of King Njoya) (Cameroon) – Director & Producer: Claye Edou |
Crocodile Dance (South Africa/Nigeria) – Co-Directors: Shofela Coker & Nadia Darries, Producer: Ingrid De Beer |
Kamaroza (Egypt) – Co-Directors: Ahmad Abdelhameed & Islam Mazhar, Producer: Nouran Abdallah |
KINTUADI: SIMON KIMBANGU (Democratic Republic of the Congo) – Director: Benny Lusakueno, Producer: Giresse KASSONGA |
Mboudgui (Cameroon/France) – Director: Bienvenu Wanso-Tissala, Co-Producers: Betty Sulty-Johnson, Lamissa Ouattara |
Nunu Rhu (The Girl With Wings) (South Africa/Canada) – Director: Clare Louis, Co-Producer: Sabrina Roc & Ameera Faber |
Tribe (Zimbabwe/South Africa) – Director: Tendayi Nyeke, Producer: Debbie Crosscup |
Documentary Features Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Akal (Morocco) – Director & Producer: Basma Rkioui, Producer: Karim Debbagh |
Climbing the Mountains (Algeria) – Director and Co-Producer: Sabrina Chebbi, Producer: Kenji Accard, Co-Producer: Oualid Baha |
Golden (Zimbabwe) – Director and Co-Producer: Rumbi Katedza, Producer: Ingrid Martens |
Kivu (Democratic Republic of Congo) – Director: Elise Sawasawa, Producer: Christian Bitwaiki |
Plastic Atlantis (Cape Verde) – Director: Samira Vera-Cruz, Producer: Pedro Soulé |
Samaa Gafa (Dry Sky) (Sudan) – Director: Ibrahim Omar, Producer: Aya Yusuf |
The Salt of the South (Tunisia) – Director: Rami Jarboui, Producer: Ramzi Laâmouri |
Un/Settled (South Africa) – Director: Sydelle Willow Smith, Producer: Mehret Mandefro |
Vuka (South Africa) – Director: Matthew Robinson, Producer: Rehad Desai |
Documentary Series Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Planet Carnival (South Africa) – Director: Kurt Orderson, Co-Producer: Luana Rocha, Executive Producer: Thandi Davids |
Retour à Thiaroye (Return To Thiaroye) (Tunisia) – Director: Emilien Abibou, Co-Producers: Dhia Jerbi, Manon Lavaud & Victor Thomas |
Fiction Features Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Al Asas (The Guardian) (Algeria) – Director: Muhannad Lamin, Producer: Lynda Belkhiria |
Bupya (Renewed) (Rwanda) – Director: Claire Sheila Birungi, Producer: Oge Obasi |
Dowar Alqamar (The Sunflowers of the Moon) (Tunisia) – Director: ismaël, Producer: Sarra Maali |
Le Sanglier (The Boar) (Senegal) – Director: Mamadou Socrate Diop, Producer: Yanis Gaye |
n Doop om Stilte (Baptism of Silence) (South Africa) – Directors: Kanya Viljoen and Emilie Badenhorst, Producer: Casey Diepeveen |
Nomvula (She Who Brings the Rain) (South Africa) – Director: Sibusiso Khuzwayo, Producer: Kethiwe Ngcobo |
Space Maasai (Tanzania) – Director: Priscilla Marealle, Producer: Wilson Nkya |
STERO (Kenya) – Directors: Millan Tarus & Tevin Kimathi, Producer: Juliana Kabua |
Fiction Series Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
High Flyers (South Africa) – Director: Ian Gabriel, Producer: Gabe Gabriel |
The Second Coming (South Africa) – Director: Michael James, Producer: Siyabonga Xaba |
VigilAunties (South Africa) – Director: Loren Loubser, Producer: Dominique Jossie |
Talents Durban 2025 Project Selection
Fiction Features Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
The Most High (Uganda) – Director, Screenwriter & Producer: Samuel Kizito |
MENELIK III (Rwanda / Sudan) – Director, Screenwriter & Producer: Hassan Zaroug |
No Man’s Land (South Africa) – Director & Screenwriter: Sean Mongie |
Nuusiku (Namibia) – Director & Screenwriter: Laudika Hamutenya |
The Prophecy (Senegal) – Director, Screenwriter & Producer: Rehanna Ngom |
LET THIS DAY END (Tunisia) – Director & Screenwriter: Karim Berrhouma |
The Soil’s Silent Smell (Ethiopia) – Director & Screenwriter: Melkamu Haile |
Documentary Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Designing Divide (South Africa) – Director: Jessie Ayles |
Green Island Girls (Egypt) – Director: Rogena Tarek |
One Man’s Dream (Malawi) – Director: Chisomo Kawaga |
Mwiba (A Thorn) (Tanzania) – Director & Producer: Gwantwa Mwakalinga |
Ghana Must Go! (Ghana) – Director & Screenwriter: Joewackle Kusi |
KUMFOGA (Togo) – Director & Screenwriter: Dissirama BESSOGA |
Fiction Shorts Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
My Chicken (Huku Yangu) (Zimbabwe) – Director & Screenwriter: Dereck NZIYAKWI |
Based on Future Events: Why Hast Thou Forsaken Me? (Egypt) – Director & Screenwriter: Bassma Farah Nancy |
DELIVERY MAN (Côte d’Ivoire) – Director & Screenwriter: Ani ELIAM |
Butterflies (Nigeria) – Screenwriter: Aghogho Onobrakpeya |
Trucker Man (South Africa) – Director & Screenwriter: Shiefaa Hendricks |
Animation Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Zein (Egypt) – Director & Screenwriter:Nermeen Salem |
Sisonkhe Kids Habits (Eswatini) – Director, Screenwriter & Producer: Mfanelo Masuku |
Akiki’s Adventures in Azania (South Africa) – Director: Fatuma Abdullah |
Rutu (Kenya) – Director & Producer: Mary Njoroge |
Episodic Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Mad Bounty and The Midnight Gun (Uganda) – Director, Screenwriter: Talemwa Pius |
Guess what? (Egypt) – Director, Screenwriter & Producer: Hayat Aljowaily |
Watching Over You (South Africa) – Director, Screenwriter: Stephen Nagel |
Survivors of Tromelin (Madagascar) – Director, Screenwriter: Raissa Loussouf |
Talents Press Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Gloria Nkatha – (Kenya) |
Tshi Malatji – (South Africa) |
Alice Johnson – (Ghana) |
Riley Hlatshwayo – (South Africa) |
Mohamed Sayed – (Egypt) |
Jumpstart 2025 Project Selection
Jumpstart 2025 Project Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Corruption is An English Word (South Africa) – Producer: Ellen Havenith, Director: Zoe Ramushu, Producer/Director: Rea Moeti-Vogt |
Ghosts of the Colony (Working Title) (Kenya) – Producer: Densu Moseti, Director: Isaya Evans, Writer: Shaleen Keshvajee |
La Femme Qui En Voulait Trop (Stone) (Tunisia) – Producer: Abdelmajid Housseini, Director: Karim Berrhouma |
The Sea Was Once Blue (Egypt) – Producer: Charles Meresse, Director: Mohamad El-Hadidi |
Durban FilmMart Institute Year Round Programme
DFMI Business Lab 2025 Participant Selection
DFMI Business Lab 2025 Participant Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Amina Arafa – (Egypt) |
Aminata Sarr – (Senegal) |
Amisha Mukasa – (Uganda) |
Ara Bhabha – (South Africa) |
Arnold SETOHOU – (Bénin) |
ATIR Berriah – (Morocco) |
Bakoro KONÉ – (Côte d’Ivoire) |
Banke Bakare – (Nigeria) |
Cecimercy Wanza – (Kenya) |
Dagmawe Tamirat Demissie – (Ethiopia) |
Dancurf Obwogi – (Kenya) |
Danielle Retief – (South Africa) |
Dennis Ngango – (South Africa) |
Dja Damien Dally – (Côte d’ivoire) |
Hassan Zaroug – (Sudan) |
Khumiso Rebabedi – (Botswana) |
Marlène ALAMISSI – (Bénin) |
Michelle Umobong – (Nigeria) |
Mkaiwawi M. Mwakaba – (Kenya) |
Mnena Akpera – (Nigeria) |
Mohau Mannathoko – (Botswana) |
N’DOKO Delphine Victorine Yao – (Côte d’Ivoire) |
Nalunga Lukodda – (Uganda) |
Nedem Malm – (Togo) |
Neo Kebiditswe – (Botswana) |
Nomcebo Ngema – (South Africa) |
Ogochukwu Umeadi – (Nigeria) |
Salma El Sharnouby – (Egypt) |
Samuel Kizito – (Uganda) |
Shaeera Kalla – (South Africa) |
Usaku Robinson Wammanda – (Nigeria) |
Yuhi Amuli – (Rwanda) |
Future Mentors 2025
Selection
| West Africa Selection |
|---|
Carlos Yuri Ceuninck – (Cabo Verde) |
Fatoumata Senghor – (Senegal) |
Giresse Kassonga – (DRC) |
Luck Razanajaona – (Madagascar) |
Maéva Ranaivojaona – (Madagascar) |
Moustapha Sawadogo – (Burkina Faso) |
Soro Azata – (Burkina Faso) |
| North Africa Selection |
|---|
Amine Hattou – (Algeria) |
Dhia Jerbi – (Tunisia) |
Hussein Eddeb – (Libya) |
Lamia Belkaied Guiga – (Tunisia) |
Mahmoud Hemeda – (Egypt) |
Mirvet Kammoun – (Tunisia) |
Muhammad Taymour – (Egypt) |
Nada Riyadh – (Egypt) |
DFM Access 2025 Project Selection
Fiction Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
Dead but Barely Breathing – Director: Jonathan Parkinson, Producer: Babalwa Rasane-Eidner |
Ekhaya – Director: Kagiso Latane, Producer: Nobulali Kama |
Howick Falls – Producer & Director: Nhlakanipho Mashinini |
The Trip – Director: Faith Riyano, Producer: Mbali Fikeni |
Waslap – Producer & Director: Batandwa Alperstein (Selected to pitch at DFM 2026) |
Xola (Working Title) – Director: Miselwa Missy Ngamlana, Producer: Sinomtha Nduna |
Documentary Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
A Bed called Home – Producer & Director: Themba Belani |
Dead Archives – Director: Ntsika Ngini-Ngini, Producer: Pumelelo Chrsitopher Sobinca |
MDANTSANE – HOME OF BOXING – Producer & Director: Pumlani Veto (Selected to pitch at DFM 2026) |
Ocean Acidification along South Africa’s Coastline – Director & Producer: Michelle Simon |
Of Song and Silence Indwe and AbaThembu – Producer & Director: Tsakane Maubane |
Ruth Mompati A Life Of Courage – Producer & Director: Diliza Moabi |
The Dispossessed – Director: Nkululeko Zokufa, Producer: Carol Pam Zokufa |
Vredefort Dome An African Perspective On A Cosmic Catatlysm – Producer & Director: Mohau Kwebu |
Episodic Selection
| Project Selection |
|---|
BHODLOZA NZIMANDE – Producer & Director: Philile Nzimande |
JARIAH – Producer & Director: Thubelihle Sithole |
My Mense – Producer & Director: Akhona Sitshinga |
Reycation – Producer & Director: Holly Margaret Wasserfalla |
Strandfontein – Producer & Director: Jaco van Bosch |
The Bush Life – Director: Ian Morgan, Producer: Karly Poyer |
The Coven – Producer: Siphesihle Siyabonga (Selected to pitch at DFM 2026) |
uNodoli ukhenketha Ezilalini – Producer & Director: Azola Ntlantsana |