The Phillemon Masinga Stadium Hall in the spirited township of Khuma will once again burst into cinematic life as the 2nd Annual Khuma Film Festival returns from May 27 to 30, 2025.
With a mission to uplift and educate young South Africans through film, this year’s edition builds powerfully on the success of its 2024 debut—read the inaugural story here.
Themed around inspiration and access, the festival is introducing award-winning producer, actor, and director Neo Ntlatleng as its new festival director, promising a deeper blend of creativity and impact.
“The plan is to cultivate young audiences and film lovers by showcasing local films made by a diverse mix of South African filmmakers. We want to leave the youth of Khuma and Matlosana with memorable moments and learning, and looking forward to future editions of the Khuma Film Festival offering,” said Ntlatleng.
The dynamic programme includes panel discussions, industry workshops, celebrity school tours, and screenings of locally produced films, offering a holistic look into the world of filmmaking as a career and cultural tool.
Returning stronger and more immersive, the festival continues to serve its core purpose—inspiring youth to take bold steps into the thriving South African film and television industry.
Building on a groundbreaking legacy
The inaugural 2024 festival made waves by giving the youth of Khuma a front-row seat to meet their filmmaking heroes, with acclaimed guests like Robert Mpisi, Didintle Khunou, and Vincent Moloi leading impactful sessions.
Former Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO Sello Hatang moved the crowd with his heartfelt message of resilience and faith, reminding them, “Stay the course, trust in the Lord to take care of your troubles.”
The 2024 event also featured the opening night film Who’s My Daddy, starring David Kau and Alfred Ntombela, which set the tone for a lively and ambitious cinematic celebration. Local leaders, including Executive Mayor James Ntsulela, praised festival founder Naomi Mokhele for her unwavering commitment to ploughing back into the community.
A new chapter led by visionaries
“This year we once again have school tours, over and above film screenings, film industry workshops and panel discussions. All this is done to inspire, educate and inform young people on the opportunities available to them within the country’s thriving and dynamic film and television industry,” said festival founder and CEO of Sebabatso Media, Naomi Mokhele.
Supported by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) thorough the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme, the festival is committed to leveraging the power of film to shape social narratives and build viable futures for South Africa’s youth.
What to expect in 2025:
- School Tours: Hands-on mentorship with stars and filmmakers at local schools
- Industry Panels: Featuring top creatives from around the country
- Workshops & Masterclasses: Learn the craft—from script to screen
- Film Screenings: Local films by emerging and seasoned South African talent
- Community Spirit: A celebration of local pride and youth potential
