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Industry Events

#EncountersDocFest

Sat 24 June

Cape Town

Bertha House, Mowbray

11:15am - 12:45pm

AFRICA IN FOCUS

Immerse yourself in the diversity of African storytelling through our celebration of African documentaries in focus. Join us for curated programmes — both in-person and online — that illuminate African narratives and the filmic landscape on the continent. Be inspired by the industry experts and the filmmakers’ compelling visions as they offer a nuanced exploration of Africa through the lens of documentary. Africa in Focus is proudly presented in partnership with the International Documentary Association (IDA), Institut Français d’Afrique du Sud (IFAS), the Embassy of Switzerland, Global Impact Producers Alliance (GIPA), Documentary Africa (DocA) and the Documentary Filmmakers’ Association (DFA), demonstrating a shared commitment to showcasing and promoting African documentary cinema.

Africa in Focus

Case Study

MONEY CAN’T TALK, YET IT CAN MAKE STORIES: EXPLORING DYNAMICS OF FUNDING FOR DOCUMENTARIES IN AFRICA

Documentary funding in Africa can be complex and challenging, with various factors impacting availability and distribution. How can African filmmakers move away from reliance on international training initiatives and access funding without compromising their narratives? Is there increasing pressure to commercialise and homogenise African documentary filmmaking, leading to a focus on marketable stories? What space is available to showcase independent work with smaller budgets and less commercial appeal for diverse documentary markets? Join us as we explore funding opportunities and implications for documentary storytelling in Africa.

With the support of the International Documentary Association (IDA)

Milisuthando

Dir. Milisuthando Bongela | South Africa | 2022 | 115 min

MILISUTHANDO BONGELA

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR: MILISUTHANDO

FRANCOIS VERSTER

MODERATOR
FILMMAKER | CONVENOR OF DOCUMENTARY FILM PROGRAMME | CENTRE FOR HUMANITIES RESEARCH | UWC

Sat 24 June

Cape Town

Bertha House, Mowbray

2:00pm – 3.30pm

Africa in Focus

Panel

REFRAMING AFRICA: CHAMPIONING ARCHIVAL HISTORY IN FILMMAKING TO SHAPE AND ADVANCE AFRICAN NARRATIVES

Using Money, Freedom: A Story of the CFA Franc as a case study, the panellists will delve into how the film’s exploration of the CFA franc’s history sheds light on the broader issue of African monetary sovereignty, economic empowerment and self-determination. The role of historical archives in shaping our understanding of African economic history and informing policy decisions will also be emphasised, along with the filmmaker’s craft in dissecting, editing and shaping fresh perspectives around this to inform our historical memory of events. The panellists will explore the potential, value and impact of this approach to documentary filmmaking in providing fresh views of advancement on the continent.

With the support of IFAS – Institut Français d’Afrique du Sud

Money, Freedom: A Story of the CFA Franc

Dir. Katy Lena Ndiaye | Senegal/France/Belgium | 2022 | 105 min

RORY BESTER

PANELLIST
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR | DEPARTMENT OF HISTORICAL STUDIES | UWC

FERNANDA PINTO DE ALMEIDA

PANELLIST
FELLOW: NEXT GENERATION SCHOLAR | THE CENTRE FOR HUMAN HUMANITIES | UWC

SARAH DAWSON

MODERATOR
PROGRAMMER | IDFA

Mon 26 June

Online

3:00pm - 4:30pm

Africa in Focus

Panel

WHOSE STORY IS THIS? THE CHALLENGE OF WORKING WITH VULNERABLE PROTAGONISTS IN AFRICAN DOCUMENTARIES

This in-depth panel will explore the complex challenges that arise when creating documentaries in Africa, with a focus on working with vulnerable protagonists such as survivors of violence, economically compromised individuals and communities and those who have experienced marginalisation and exploitation.

The panellists will discuss the ethical considerations that filmmakers must take into account, such as obtaining informed consent, protecting privacy and avoiding further harm. They will also address the aftermath of the film’s completion and the potential impact on the subjects, including issues of compensation or social support.

In addition, the panel will examine questions of ownership and agency in documentary filmmaking, including the right to tell certain stories and the involvement of protagonists in the storytelling process. The panellists will emphasise the importance of prioritising collective authorship and ensuring there is agency.

With the support of IFAS – Institut Français d’Afrique du Sud, Embassy of Switzerland and the Documentary Film Association (DFA)

Eat Bitter

Dir. Ningyi Sun, Pascale Appora-Gnekindy | CAR/USA | 2023 | 97 min

Le Spectre De Boko Haram

Dir. Cyrielle Raingou | Cameroon/France | 2023 | 75 min

Out of Uganda

Dir. Rolando Colla, Josef Burri | Switzerland | 2022 | 65 min 

PASCALE APPORA-GNEKINDY

PANELLIST
CO-DIRECTOR: EAT BITTER

EatBitter_director_Mathieu_Faure
Mathieu Faure

PANELLIST
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, PRODUCER, CO-EDITOR & CO-WRITER:  EAT BITTER

JOSEF BURRI

PANELLIST
CO-DIRECTOR: OUT OF UGANDA

SHAMEELA SEEDAT

MODERATOR
FILMMAKER | DFA

Tue 27 June

Online

3:00pm

Online Panel

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.

With the support of Climate Story Lab Southern Africa (CSLZA)

FASHION REIMAGINED

Becky Hutner | United Kingdom | 2022 | 100 min

Becky Hutner

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR: FASHION REIMAGINED

JACKIE MAY

PANELLIST
FOUNDER | TWYG

Sibabalwe Ndlwana

PANELLIST
WEAVER ARTIST | TEXTILE DESIGNER | RESEARCHER

MIKI REDELINGHUYS

MODERATOR
CO-DIRECTOR | CSLZA

Tue 27 June

Cape Town

Labia Theatre

6:15pm

Screening

Panel

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.

With the support of the Danish Film Institute and Webber Wentzel

Theatre of Violence

Dir. Lukasz Konopa, Emil Langbelle | Denmark/Germany/Uganda | 2022 | 106 min

LUKASZ KONOPA

PANELLIST
CO-DIRECTOR: THEATRE OF VIOLENCE

HELLE FABER

PANELLIST
PRODUCER: THEATRE OF VIOLENCE

ODETTE GELDENHUYS

PANELLIST
ATTORNEY | PARTNER | WEBBER WENTZEL

NAEFA KAHN

PANELLIST
ADVOCATE | CAPE BAR

HUGH CORDER

PANELLIST
EMERITUS PROFESSOR & SENIOR SCHOLAR | UCT

Eshed Cohen

MODERATOR
ADVOCATE OF THE HIGH COURT OF SOUTH AFRICA

WED 28 June

Online

3:00pm

Online Panel

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!

With the support of Climate Story Lab Southern Africa (CSLZA)

ALL THAT BREATHES

Shaunak Sen | India/United States | 2022 | 94min

SHAUNAK SEN

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR: ALL THAT BREATHES

DR LIANI MAASDORP

PANELIST
CO-DIRECTOR | CSLZA

ANITA KHANNA

PANELIST
CO-DIRECTOR | CSLZA

 Wed 28 June

Cape Town

11am Screening

+ lunch break

2:00pm Workshop

Africa in Focus

Workshop

Bertha Movie House, Isivivana Centre, Khayelitsha

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.

With the support of Sisters Working in Film and Television (SWIFT)

Beyond the Light Barrier

Dir. Uga Carlini, | South Africa/Italy/Ukraine | 2022 | 87 min

UGA CARLINI
PANELLIST
DIRECTOR, WRITER & PRODUCER: BTLB
GEORGIA COURT
PANELLIST
CINEMATOGRAPHER & EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: BTLB
INKA KENDZIA
PANELLIST
ANIMATION DIRECTOR & LIVE VISUALS: BTLB
CATHERINE GRENFELL
PANELLIST
SOUND PRODUCER: BTLB
CARMEN ZIERVOGEL

PANELLIST
ILLUSTRATOR: BTLB

Faldelah Abrahams-Issel

FACILITATOR
FALDELAH ABRAHAMS-ISSEL

Wed 28 June

Cape Town

Ster-Kinekor V&A Waterfront

6:00pm Screening

Africa in Focus

Panel

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.

A Story of Bones

Dir. Joseph Curran, Dominic Aubrey de Vere | United Kingdom/St. Helena | 2022 | 95 min

DR BIANCA VAN LAUN

PANELLIST
LECTURER | DEPARTMENT OF HISTORICAL STUDIES | UWC

ROBYN HUMPHREYS

PANELLIST
ASSOCIATE LECTURER | DEPARTMENT OF HISTORICAL STUDIES | UWC

DR BONGANI NDHLOVU

PANELLIST
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: CORE FUNCTIONS | IZIKO MUSEUMS OF SOUTH AFRICA

ANNELIZE KOTZE

PANELLIST
SOCIAL HISTORY CURATOR | IZIKO MUSEUMS OF SOUTH AFRICA

BONGANI KONA

MODERATOR
ASSOCIATE LECTURER | DEPARTMENT OF HISTORICAL STUDIES | UWC

Wed 28 June

Johannesburg

The Zone @ Rosebank

Ster-Kinekor

6:00pm

Screening

Panel

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.

With the support of the Danish Film Institute and Webber Wentzel

Theatre of Violence

Dir. Lukasz Konopa, Emil Langbelle | Denmark/Germany/Uganda | 2022 | 106 min

LUKASZ KONOPA

PANELLIST
CO-DIRECTOR: THEATRE OF VIOLENCE

HELLE FABER

PANELLIST
PRODUCER: THEATRE OF VIOLENCE

NICOLE FRITZ

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR | HELEN SUZMAN FOUNDATION

KAAJAL RAMJATHAN-KEOGH

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR | AFRICA PROGRAMME AT THE INTERNATIONAL COMMISSION OF JURISTS (ICJ)

ISABEL GOODMAN

PANELLIST
ISABEL GOODMAN | ADVOCATE | VICTORIA MXENGE GROUP OF ADVOCATES 

KARABO VAN HEERDEN

MODERATOR
ADVOCATE | THULAMELA CHAMBERS

Thu 29 June

Johannesburg

Goethe-Institut

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Masterclass

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.

With the support of the Danish Film Institute

Theatre of Violence

Dir. Lukasz Konopa, Emil Langbelle | Denmark/Germany/Uganda | 2022 | 106 min

LUKASZ KONOPA

PANELLIST
CO-DIRECTOR: THEATRE OF VIOLENCE

HELLE FABER

PANELLIST
PRODUCER: THEATRE OF VIOLENCE

NEIL BRANDT

MODERATOR
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER | STORYSCOPE

Thu 29 June

Cape Town

Labia

6.15pm

Panel

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.

With the support of the Goethe-Institut of Johannesburg & The German Embassy of South Africa

DORPIE

Dir. Julia Jaki | South Africa/Germany | 2022 | 75 min

JULIA JAKI

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR: DORPIE

ANTOINETTE ENGEL

PANELLIST
CO-PRODUCER: DORPIE

EatBitter_director_Mathieu_Faure
LANA O’NEILL
PANELLIST
COMMUNITY WORKER | ACTIVIST | PROTAGONIST: DORPIE
CLAUDIA LOPES

MODERATOR
HUMAN RIGHTS PROGRAMME MANAGER | HEINRICH BÖLL FOUNDATION 

Fri 30 June

Online

12:00pm

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.

ADEL KSIKSI

PANELLIST
HEAD OF AND INDUSTRY DAYS | AL JAZEERA DOCUMENTARY CHANNEL

MONICA RORVIK

MODERATOR
HEAD OF FILM AND MEDIA PROMOTION | WESGRO

Fri 30 June

Cape Town

2:00pm – 5:00pm

Africa in Focus

Workshop

InvestSA, 46 St Georges Mall, CT

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.

With the support of GIPA (Global Impact Producers Alliance), in partnership with DocA – Documentary Africa

TINY MUNGWE

FACILITATOR
PRODUCER | STEPS | GIPA

AUSTIN ONYORE NYAMBOK

FACILITATOR
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER | DOCA- DOCUMENTARY AFRICA

LAMEZE ALLIE

FACILITATOR
FESTIVAL COORDINATOR | ENCOUNTERS

Sat 1 July

Johannesburg

Goethe-Institut

11:00am -12:45pm

Screening

In Conversation

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.

With the support of Goethe-Institut of Johannesburg & The German Embassy of South Africa

DORPIE

Dir. Julia Jaki | South Africa/Germany | 2022 | 75 min

JULIA JAKI

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR: DORPIE

ANTOINETTE ENGEL

PANELLIST
CO-PRODUCER: DORPIE

ANITA KHANNA

MODERATOR
WRITER, PRODUCER & IMPACT PRODUCER | UCT

Sat 1 July

Johannesburg

Goethe-Institut

1:30pm – 3:00pm

Forum

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.

1001 DAYS

Dir. Kethiwe Ngcobo & Chloe White | South Africa/United Kingdom | 2022 | 97 min

DORPIE

Dir. Julia Jaki | South Africa/Germany | 2022 | 75 min

KETHIWE NGCOBO

PANELLIST
CO-DIRECTOR: 1001 DAYS

ANTOINETTE ENGEL

PANELLIST
CO-PRODUCER: DORPIE

JULIA JAKI

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR: DORPIE

ZANELE MORRISON

MODERATOR
LEADERSHIP FACILITATOR | ANCHOR @ CNBC AFRICA | DIRECTOR | THE COLLECTV

Sat 1 July

Cape Town

2:00pm

Africa in Focus

Bertha Movie House, Isivivana Centre, Khayelitsha

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.

DANE DODDS

PANELLIST
DIRECTOR: !AITSA