Shaka iLember producers inspire local film makers
Creative tapestry enriched by Shaka iLembe masterclass
Gaborone recently played host to a vibrant confluence of creative minds, as the National Arts Council of Botswana (NACB), in a dynamic partnership with MultiChoice Botswana, unveiled a masterclass that truly set the stage alight.
This wasn’t just another workshop; it was a deep dive into the heart of African storytelling, led by none other than Jacob Ntshangase, Head of Research, and Desiree Markgraaf, CEO, both from the acclaimed Bomb Shelter Film Company, the creative powerhouse behind the epic series, Shaka iLembe.
This gathering wasn’t simply about knowledge transfer; it was a testament to the NACB’s steadfast commitment to knitting together regional and continental connections, firmly placing Botswana’s burgeoning creative industries at the very pulse of Africa’s cultural dialogue.
Think of it as opening a vital vein for the free flow of ideas and expertise, ensuring that Botswana’s creative spirit isn’t just nurtured but also celebrated across borders. Through this enduring partnership with DStv MultiChoice Botswana, a fertile ground is continuously tilled for the planting of new ideas, the blossoming of skills, and the vibrant cross-pollination of cultures.
The Shaka iLembe Masterclass, held in the inviting ambiance of Thapong Café & Deli, served as a crucial forum for introspection and lively discourse on the often-complex subjects of cultural representation, the art of historical storytelling, and the shared odyssey of African film production, with all its triumphs and trials.
While the sheer scale and remarkable artistry of Shaka iLembe undoubtedly provided a rich wellspring of inspiration, the NACB remains unwavering in its core mission: to cultivate, champion, and bring to the forefront Botswana’s own rich cultural narratives.
Local stories, like precious gems awaiting their polish, are ripe for the telling and deserve to command their rightful place on both the continental and global stages. The masterclass itself, a melting pot of local filmmakers, cultural custodians, and spirited creatives, delved into the profound power of authentic African storytelling.
“The very seed of this event was sown from the conviction that platforms like these are absolutely critical in empowering the next generation of storytellers,” remarked Thembile Legwaila, MultiChoice Botswana Head of Marketing, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the occasion.
“We wear our partnership with NACB like a badge of honor, an entity that has consistently shown a clear intention to forge spaces where creatives can learn, connect, and draw inspiration. For us, Shaka iLembe transcends being merely a show; it’s living proof that when we spin our own yarns with clarity and excellence, they possess the power to resonate across the entire world, truly hitting home.”
During the session, Desiree Markgraaff, the Executive Producer of Shaka iLembe, underscored a truth as old as time itself: the paramount importance of cultural respect when weaving historical narratives.
“You simply cannot tell a story like Shaka iLembe without holding deep reverence for the people, the language, and the enduring legacy,” she passionately explained. “When culture is truly honored, the production gains immeasurable depth, an undeniable truth, and a formidable power. That, in a nutshell, is what makes it resonate so profoundly and what transforms mere historical depictions into stories that bind us all together.”
