Conversations with Paul Myburgh

Production by Jacek Kaminski & Raphaela Linders 24min

“If you want to know then we must talk. There are no short answers, not if you really want to know” – Paul Myburgh.

After living with the Bushmen in the Kalahari Desert for over seven years, Paul John Myburgh shares his thoughts and concepts on their ancient wisdom with modern humanity. Filming numerous conversations with Myburgh, this documentary aims to convey some of his more fundamental philosophies from his film and book, and to remind modern humanity what we have forgotten from the knowledge and way of life of the /Gwikwe bushmen.

I seek a Safe Place

Production by Amaal Salie, Debbie Potgieter & Palesa Mashigo 24min

Over 500,000 Congolese refugees have flocked to South Africa over the past decade, escaping the civil war that has plagued the DRC. Many of them leave their countries with professional qualifications only to arrive in South Africa and are then forced to do menial jobs like car guarding. In addition to this, refugees are often victims of xenophobia and other forms of discrimination due to the misconceived Ideas about why they fled their country of origin. This documentary follows the lives of three Congolese refugees and attempts to change the stereotypical perceptions attached to foreign nationals in South Africa.

Xakhubasa: The White Pride

Production by Robyn Perros and Tassyn Munro 24min

An inside look into the lives of South Africans with albinism; a story of the challenges and the triumphs of living in a country where they are largely marginalized by others who struggle to place them into the proverbial “rainbow nation”. Albinism is a medical condition, yet the social manifestations of albinism are faced on a daily basis by those affected by it. Through the stories of Sphonakaliso Mpisi and Jake Scott, the many myths and misconceptions surrounding people with albinism are tackled in an attempt to bring an end to the ignorance that persists.

Paper Dragons

Production by Minette van der Walt, Katja Screiber & Kirsten Allnutt 24mins

South Africa’s patchwork-quilt of cultures ranges from Khoisan to Afrikaners, Cape Malays, Indians and many others in between. So where do Chinese and Taiwanese fit in? Do they fit in? Who are ‘they’? And what are they doing here? Paper Dragons is a documentary that explores the experiences of Chinese and Taiwanese descendants living in South Africa. The film delves Into the lives of seven individuals, taking the viewer on a journey of cultural exchange. From the rural Free State to Johannesburg’s second China Town, Chinese and Taiwanese communities have a presence that Is both nation-wide and historically significant.

Two Stories

Production by Martin Bleazard, Justin Archer & Rosanna Scott 24mins

Winner of the Audience Prize 2012 at the 7th RUTV Documentary Film Festival

Two Stories profiles the experiences and impact of two people from different backgrounds. Jan and Nosiphokazi live in two townships in the Eastern Cape. Their presence in these places has affected them and those around them profoundly.
Nosiphokazi Fihlani, a corrective rape survivor, lives in the Grahamstown township and stands bravely against those who discriminate against her and so inspires other lesbians to be open in a community that wants to keep them silenced.
Jan Blom, a rowing coach from Holland, came to the Port Alfred township after his partner died and started an organization to train disadvantaged children in sports and basic education.

Facing the Music

Production by Sungeni Chithambo, Charmian Africa & Thomas Mills. 24min

Music is a recreational activity offered in prisons nationwide. Five male ex-convicts in Grahamstown explain their crimes and show the power that music has played by giving them discipline, self-worth, focus and an occupation to help avoid further crime. Music alone cannot be credited; the characters highlight the importance of family support as a driving force behind successful reintegration into society and a curb to potential re-offense. This documentary takes a look at Norman Plaatjie and friends, all ex-prisoners trying to re-adapt into the community.