Nonhlanhla Dlamini

My early forays into filmmaking were shaped by a rigorous and inspiring foundation at the African Feature Film Story Development Training Program (ASDF) in Harare, Zimbabwe. It was there that I had the privilege of being mentored by titans of the industry. The late Lew Hunter, a name synonymous with screenwriting excellence, shared his wisdom, which echoed the principles of his renowned UCLA Screenwriting 434 course. Cameron Bailey, now at the helm of the Toronto International Film Festival, was instrumental through the Planet Africa initiative, opening my eyes to the broader landscape of global cinema. This understanding was amplified when I began co-filmmaking with Sakhile Dlamini. Together, we embarked on the ambitious journey of creating the feature documentary Shattered Pieces of Peace. The recognition we received, including three PUMA Creative Catalyst Awards, underscored the impact and resonance of the stories we were committed to telling. These awards were fuel, affirming that our work could not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire meaningful dialogue. My connection to storytelling extends beyond independent film into the vibrant world of broadcast television. I’ve had the privilege of writing for the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), collaborating with Ochre Moving Pictures on a number of compelling series. Gaz’lam, in particular, holds a special place. I also served as an entertainment critic for the City Press Newspaper, a role that sharpened my analytical skills and deepened my understanding of the media's influence. The written word, for me, is as potent a tool as the cinematic lens. My contributions to the pan-African OSISA xenophobia anthology were a direct response to the deeply unsettling xenophobic unrest that has plagued South Africa. This literary endeavor allowed me to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the devastating consequences of prejudice through different narrative forms. Innovation is a cornerstone of my creative process. My thirst for knowledge is insatiable. I believe that to be a compelling storyteller, one must also be a perpetual student of the world. This has led me to pursue a diverse range of short courses, from learning "Chinese Language in Culture" and mastering "Digital Branding and Engagement" to exploring the societal impact of "Superheroes and their Impact on Pop Culture" and grappling with the urgent realities of "Making Sense of Climate Change." Each course, no matter how seemingly disparate, adds a layer to my understanding, enriching the narratives I explore.