July 2025 will witness the dawn of a transformative cultural movement as the inaugural Connie Chiume International Youth Film Festival unfolds from 18 to 20 July at the Sibikwa Arts Centre in Gauteng. This festival aims to elevate the voices of young African filmmakers while paying homage to the late actress Connie Chiume, whose legacy as a pioneering artist will resonate throughout the three-day event.
This year’s festival carries special significance. It is the first since the passing of Chiume in August 2024, making it a heartfelt tribute to her lifelong commitment to empowering youth and amplifying African narratives.
“This is more than just a celebration of emerging talent; it’s a vital platform that gives students a real opportunity to enter the film industry, tell their stories, and build meaningful careers,” said Nothando Mabuza, daughter of Chiume and Executive Producer of the festival.
“It empowers communities, inspires creativity, and helps create sustainable employment in the arts.” Curated by celebrated DJ and cultural curator Noluthando Rotwane (aka DJ Teedo Love), the festival promises to deliver a line-up of bold, youth-led screenings that reflect important themes such as mental health, gender equality, and social inclusion.
“The Connie Chiume International Youth Film Festival is a celebration of what’s possible when we give young people the tools, spaces, and platforms to dream and create,” remarked Nongelo Chiume, Festival Spokesperson. “We’re not only building future filmmakers—we’re expanding access to an entire economy of opportunity that Mama Connie cared deeply about.” A highlight of the festival will be the screening of the South African classic What Did You Dream?, directed by Karabo Lediga and featuring Connie Chiume herself. T
his iconic film represents a poignant reflection of her influence and contribution to the arts. Alongside this, audiences will witness Uprize! by Sifiso Khanyile, a thought-provoking documentary that chronicles the student-led resistance during the 1976 Soweto Uprising.
Together, these works, alongside short films by students from across South Africa, will engage a diverse audience comprising learners, educators, creatives, and industry veterans. Opening on Nelson Mandela Day, the festival will embrace the spirit of service with the “Connie Chiume 67 Minutes Challenge,” which invites established industry professionals to dedicate an hour of mentorship to aspiring filmmakers.
The festival will also introduce the Connie Chiume Memorial Lecture, an annual address aimed at exploring storytelling’s profound role in shaping legacy and national consciousness.
In partnership with the Sibikwa Arts Centre, the festival will offer masterclasses and practical workshops across various disciplines, including directing, cinematography, scriptwriting, editing, and costume design. “The aim is not only to spotlight talent, but to create a functional ecosystem where young people feel seen, supported, and skilled enough to enter the industry with confidence,” Nongelo Chiume added, highlighting the festival’s commitment to inclusivity.
Returning this year will be the Legends Awards, a segment dedicated to recognising the unsung heroes of the film industry—lighting technicians, line producers, casting directors, and editors—whose unseen contributions are essential in holding the creative sector together. As the Connie Chiume International Youth Film Festival readies to take flight, it promises to be a beacon of opportunity and inspiration for future generations, ensuring that the vibrant legacy of Connie Chiume and the richness of African storytelling continue to flourish.
Picture: Sourced from X.
