Industry Events

FASHION FOR FUTURES: EXPLORING THE PATH TO A SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRY

Climate Story Lab ZA hosts this discussion with the director of Fashion Reimagined, Becky Hutner. The film follows trailblazing designer Amy Powney and her quest for a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry. Joining the discussion about the film’s impact campaign are local sustainable fashionistas, textile designer Sibabalwe Ndlwana and Twyg editor, Jacky May. This invigorating conversation will consider the stories, ideas and possibilities that lie within the realm of fashion’s future.

PURSUING JUSTICE: NAVIGATING THE COMPLEXITIES OF INTERNATIONAL LAW AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN THEATRE OF VIOLENCE AND INVESTIGATING THE LEGITIMACY OF THE ICC IN AFRICA

Join us for a rigorous panel discussion on the complexities of international law and human rights in the context of historical and political conflict, inspired by the powerful documentary, Theatre of Violence. The film explores the brutal case of Dominic Ongwen, a former child soldier of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in Uganda, who is standing trial for crimes against humanity. The panel will delve into fundamental questions about guilt, punishment and the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in addressing the gravest crimes of concern to the international community. Drawing on South Africa’s experience with retributive and restorative justice, this highly distinguished panel of experts will reflect on the meaning of accountability and the role of international law. Additionally, it will provide insight into the legitimacy of the ICC in Africa and the challenges it faces in pursuing justice. The panel will further consider the issues raised by the case discussed in the film regarding criminal culpability as both Ongwen and Joseph Kony – founder of the LRA – have claimed to be guided by religion and spiritualism.

POLLUTION, POLITICS, A PORTRAIT OF PURPOSE THROUGH TURBULENT TIMES

Climate Story Lab ZA in-conversation with the director of All That Breathes, Shaunak Sen. Set in the highly polluted city of Delhi and filmed during a period of political violence, this Oscar-nominated documentary is also the only film to have been awarded both the Grand Jury Prize in World Documentary Competition (Sundance) and the Golden Eye: Best Documentary (Cannes). Beautifully filmed and rendered with great empathy, the film is a testament to the power of human care to repair the damage we have inflicted on nature, the environment, and the countless species with whom we share the planet.  Join this session as we discuss how All That Breathes subtly raises awareness and ignites compassion. It’s climate storytelling at its best!

BEYOND THE LENS: A WORKSHOP ON CRAFTING DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKING FOR BEYOND THE LIGHT BARRIER

This innovative workshop will offer a comprehensive approach to the craft and technical aspects of creating the documentary Beyond the Light Barrier. It is designed to provide filmmakers with practical skills and knowledge necessary for producing compelling documentaries. The session will focus on key aspects of documentary filmmaking, such as cinematography, sound design, interviewing techniques, the use of archive footage, post-production and editing, as demonstrated in the film. The director will provide feedback and guidance to participants throughout the workshop as they explore the specific challenges and opportunities that were encountered. By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained a deeper understanding of the craft and technical aspects of documentary filmmaking and practical skills to apply in their own work.

A STORY OF BONES: HONOURING LEGACIES AND CONFRONTING DIFFICULT HISTORIES IN COLONIAL CONTEXTS

The story of the discovery of the remains of “freed slaves” on the island of St. Helena and the campaign to honour their legacy and integrate them into the island’s history, is a reminder of the legacy of colonialism and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, which also affected South Africa’s history. South Africa was a site of colonialism and slavery, and the country has had to grapple with the impact of these legacies, including issues of racism, inequality and social injustice. A Story of Bones’ exploration of the contrast between whom and what we value and the history of colonial rule is a theme that resonates with South Africa’s ongoing struggle for social justice and reconciliation. This engaging panel discussion will explore the impact of colonialism on marginalised communities in South Africa as related to the film, the importance of recognising and honouring the experiences and contributions of oppressed groups, the role of museums in shaping narratives of history and memory, and the challenges of confronting the past and creating more inclusive and equitable societies.

PURSUING JUSTICE: NAVIGATING THE COMPLEXITIES OF INTERNATIONAL LAW AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN THEATRE OF VIOLENCE AND INVESTIGATING THE LEGITIMACY OF THE ICC IN AFRICA

Join us for a rigorous panel discussion on the complexities of international law and human rights in the context of historical and political conflict, inspired by the powerful documentary, Theatre of Violence. The film explores the brutal case of Dominic Ongwen, a former child soldier of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in Uganda, who is standing trial for crimes against humanity. The panel will delve into fundamental questions about guilt, punishment and the role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in addressing the gravest crimes of concern to the international community. Drawing on South Africa’s experience with retributive and restorative justice, this highly distinguished panel of experts will reflect on the meaning of accountability and the role of international law. Additionally, it will provide insight into the legitimacy of the ICC in Africa and the challenges it faces in pursuing justice. The panel will further consider the issues raised by the case discussed in the film regarding criminal culpability as both Ongwen and Joseph Kony – founder of the LRA – have claimed to be guided by religion and spiritualism.

THEATRE OF VIOLENCE | FILMMAKER MASTERCLASS | CO-DIRECTOR LUKASZ KONOPA | PRODUCER HELLE FABER

Join Co-Director Lukasz Konopa and Producer Helle Faber in an immersive masterclass that investigates the captivating world of Theatre of Violence, offering a unique opportunity to gain insights into the themes and complexities explored in the film, as well as the technical process of making this documentary. Konopa and Faber will offer analysis of the narrative techniques employed surrounding ethical dilemmas and moral complexities inherent in documenting and representing war and conflict. In addition, this masterclass will consider the intersection between filmmaking, human rights and social justice, and how to create impactful documentary storytelling that resonates with audiences worldwide.

PROTECTING COMMUNITIES: ADDRESSING SYSTEMIC INEQUALITIES AND EMPOWERING WOMEN IN SOUTH AFRICA

Join us for a compelling panel discussion centred around Julia Jaki’s thought-provoking documentary, Dorpie. Through raw and candid footage, Dorpie follows the compassionate community worker Lana O’Neill, as she establishes a safe house for women in Bredasdorp. This delicately rendered film offers a sensitive character study, showcasing Lana’s determination in the face of immense challenges. However, it also reveals the sobering reality that one person alone cannot dismantle the systemic inequalities that perpetuate vulnerability in South Africa. Featuring the team and protagonists from the film, urgent themes of poverty, addiction and gender-based violence will be explored, highlighting the impact on the lives of women in South Africa. Emphasis will be placed on social transformation and the resilient spirit of those fighting for empowerment.

HOW TO WORK WITH AL JAZEERA DOCUMENTARY: VALUABLE INSIGHTS, EXPERTS TIPS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Come and explore a wealth of knowledge, as we navigate how to effectively collaborate with the Al Jazeera Documentary channel. Being one of the globe’s foremost Arab documentary channels, with a burgeoning interest in African content on the rise, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. During this enlightening session, information will be provided on the essential subjects, including the art of pitching captivating ideas, nurturing compelling storylines and understanding the various thematic strands that define the channel’s content. By the end, you’ll be equipped with invaluable tips and best practices to enhance your collaboration with Al Jazeera Documentary.

IMPACT-FUL STORYTELLING GATHERING: CULTIVATING A SUSTAINABLE ECOSYSTEM FOR IMPACT STORYTELLING ON THE CONTINENT

GIPA (Global Impact Producers Alliance), in partnership with DocA – Documentary Africa and the 25th edition of Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, invites storytellers working in impact and distribution to join the IMPACT-ful Storytelling convening.

Across the continent, many communities have used storytelling as a tool for social change, stories that have amplified agency of our communities as solution finders, reflected on shared memory and celebrated our vibrant cultures and differences. Storytelling as a tool for cultural intervention is at the heart of how many societies move forward in Africa. This session will bring together organisations already working or looking to get involved with impact for storytelling on the continent, including, impact practitioners, storytellers and various stakeholders,

Throughout the continent, we are seeing various films being used to catalyse debate, effect policy change and convert hearts and minds. As the professional practice of impact takes shape, we see this convening as a great opportunity to mobilise those working in the field to becoming part of a pan-African and global community of support and solidarity.

This inaugural convening seeks to foster new connections and strengthen existing ones. We see this as a foundational step towards creating awareness and cultivating a thriving and sustainable community of practice in the budding impact field on the continent.

THE MAKING OF DORPIE: FILM CRAFT FOR SOCIAL IMPACT

Join Director Julia Jaki and Co-Producer Antoinette Engel In-Conversation about the artistic and technical aspects of their recent documentary, Dorpie, while the significant social implications of the film will be highlighted. From the delicate portrayal of characters to the resourcefulness required to fund and create the film, as well as the associated challenges, Jaki and Antoinette will share their experiences and expertise in using documentary as a medium for social transformation. Additionally, the impact the film has had thus far will be addressed, as well as social impact strategy for future endeavours.

UNBROKEN STORIES: THE FRAGILITIES AND REPOSITIONING OF DEPRESSION MESSAGING IN SOUTH AFRICA

This dynamic forum will consider the power of storytelling through film in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in underserved communities in South Africa. 1001 Days and Dorpie showcase personal experiences and the transformative power of communal support in overcoming obstacles and the critical need to support mental health. The conversation explores filmmakers’ Kethiwe Ngcobo and Julia Jaki’s distinctive approaches to storytelling and resilience-building practices in communities facing systemic oppression in a climate of mental health crisis in South Africa. Additionally, it addresses the accessibility and responsiveness of mental health services to diverse groups, emphasising the need to challenge existing mental health messaging and create a more inclusive environment for victims of circumstance, depression and gender-based violence. We invite attendees to participate in this interactive conversation sharing related personal experiences and perspectives.

BRIDGING HORIZONS: EXPLORING THE INTERSECTION OF MODERN SCIENCE, TRADITIONAL AND CULTURAL IDENTITY IN !AITSA

Discover the illuminating connections between science, tradition and cultural identity within the context of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project in the Karoo, explored by director Dane Dodds’ !Aitsa. This exciting panel discussion will examine the convergence of themes as related to ancestral practices of the Khoisan communities. Together the film’s director and executive producer, the panel will reflect on the ways in which the documentary delicately emphasises the preservation of cultural heritage. As we contemplate the intricate relationship between scientific knowledge and traditional wisdom, the panel will bring into question this cultural juxtaposition and its impact on communities. The discussion will inspire reflection on the interconnectedness of diverse worldviews and the importance of honouring the past while embracing the future.