In the past few years, the film production company Ingwe Studios created 56 jobs in the film industry. It was founded and run by Fezeka Mkhabela, 28, who oversees the entire production process, from conception to production to distribution — and she also liaises with funders on the financing of projects. She learned a great deal during the production of her debut television film Ubuhle Bendalo, which was aired on Mzansi Magic in 2023. Fezeka was pushed into a television producer role, which involved project management, strategic leadership and learning how to solve problems fast. It was a lot of pressure, but it radically improved her entrepreneurial and filmmaking skills. Fezeka has learned to not be afraid of failure, because, as she says, our biggest lessons come from our shortcomings. Fezeka, who is also an author, is busy with the poetic documentary film Kazi: To Live and Die a Woman, which examines how ancient Zulu culture revered women — something many seem to have forgotten today. She is excited to be part of a cohort of young filmmakers who are making authentic African stories globally accessible, and hopes that her film will remind black women of their greatness.
BA (Honours) Film & Television Production, University of the Witwatersrand
I am extremely proud of my debut television film, Ubuhle Bendalo, which first aired in November 2023 on Mzansi Magic. My credits for the project include executive producer and co-writer. I had the opportunity to collaborate with a talented team, comprising an impressive crew and cast and featuring the renowned Nonhle Thema in one of the lead roles. The process of creating the film proved difficult, testing my transition from an independent filmmaker into a high-pressure television producer role, which extended the creative process into new areas involving quick problem solving, project management and strategic leadership. However, the challenges, although grave at the time, have improved my skills as a producer, entrepreneur and filmmaker.
I am heavily influenced by Portia Gumede, Mmabatho Montsho and Basetsana Khumalo, incredible women who have dominated the industry in their own ways. They are a constant reminder that for a young black woman like myself, anything is possible.