Film is a powerful tool for social change. Even if you don’t speak the language used in the film, the images carry the message. This is according to Rene Weston, the Programmes Director at Sunshine Cinema who recently hosted a workshop curated for local filmmakers who use their medium to advocate for LGBTQI+ communities.
Speaking about the importance of activism through film and television in contemporary South Africa, Weston highlighted that once you see yourself represented on screen you find your own voice growing within you to the point where you take up the space that is rightfully yours.
“Our current collaboration with the American Film Showcase, made possible by the US Diplomatic Mission to SA, uses the powerful short documentary ‘The Beauty President’ as a starting point for the conversation around Empowering LGBTQI+ advocacy through film in South Africa. The film director, Whitney Skauge, shared insights into their filmmaking process and practical ways of maintaining authenticity and diverse and true representation in film,” she expressed.
Weston added that the local response to the workshop emphasised that there are many youth filmmakers, activists at human rights organisations, and queer individuals who want to be part of this conversation.
Twenty applicants from Bloemfontein participated in this workshop on 27 June.
“They represent diverse voices, from journalists working in the LGBTQI+ space to youth filmmakers wanting to learn more about the documentary storytelling approach, to activists and representatives from local NGOs. The workshops were very much participant-led, as we explored this complex topic,” she said.
Weston noted there are a few opportunities for aspiring documentary filmmakers, storytellers, communications staff at organisations, social entrepreneurs, and film students. Interested locals can follow Sunshine Cinema on Facebook to be the first to find out about future film screenings happening in the city.
“The aim is to empower local participants with ideas and tools to tell their own stories. No one can tell your story for you. But engaging in cross-cultural dialogue absolutely broadens our perceptions of what is possible… That’s the power of film,” she concluded
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