Page 10 - KZN Film Annual Report 2023/2024

KWAZULU-NATAL FILM COMMISSION
Many graduates leave university with theoretical knowledge of the film industry but lack the technical skills needed to find employment. FITI addresses this gap by offering a year-long on-set workplace skills transfer program where graduates work with production companies to create high-quality broadcast content.
Following a successful pilot program, FITI launched a dedicated training program and manual in the 2023/2024 financial year. The first year of the program began in March 2023, with classes starting in May 2023. Unfortunately, there were issues with the performance of the contracted service provider, leading to the termination of the contract. As a result, KZNFILM will provide graduates with work experience by placing them on productions in the new financial year.
Film Fund
In 2023, KZNFilm celebrated its 10th anniversary. Most importantly in the review was a highlight that since 2014 to 2023 KZNFilm has awarded over R154 million in funds to more than 500 KZN filmmakers.
The following are some of the highlights of the 2023/2024 financial year:
• The Production and Development Business Unit
launched a first-of-its-kind film development project for disabled filmmakers in the province. These projects are currently in the script development phase with first-time disabled filmmakers.
• The Business Unit (P&D) funded a music documentary about Zulu isicathamiya musician, Baba Joseph Shabalala, who is a stalwart and leader of the internationally celebrated “Ladysmith Black Mambazo.” This film will compete in two separate categories at the 2024 Academy Awards.
• Some KZNFilm film fund beneficiaries have signed distribution agreements with internationally renowned streamers such as Amazon and Netflix. These films started production in November 2023 and will hit the screens in 2024.
• The Business Unit concluded an R10 million license agreement with SABC to co-develop, co-produce, and broadcast 10 made-for-TV films in 2024.
• Since 2020, KZNFilm has facilitated the Audio Description of over 20 KZN-produced films, allowing visually impaired audiences access to film viewing.
• The Business Unit (P&D) launched its iLembe scriptwriting residency where 10 iLembe-based female filmmakers
ANNUAL REPORT 2023/2024
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