PIETERMARITZBURG – The countdown has commenced for the 7th Annual uMgungundlovu Film Festival (UFF), themed “Imagine the World in My Image”, scheduled to take place from 14 to 16 November 2025. This year’s programme promises an extraordinary celebration of film, diversity, and inclusivity across the global cinematic landscape.
“This year’s festival promises to be an exciting celebration of film and storytelling, featuring a diverse range of films, workshops, and industry events,” said Portia Ndudane, Festival Founder. “I’m proud that the festival continues to be a pivotal initiative focused on empowering local filmmakers in historically marginalised communities, prioritising women, youth, people living with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community.”
Opening night highlights
The festival will commence with the screening of The Unseen Voice, a powerful film by Jerome Moremi centring on the story of a deaf woman. This opening selection underscores the festival’s commitment to representation and inclusivity within the film industry.
The opening ceremony will feature motivational addresses from distinguished speakers, including Gugu Mbogwa, representing Women in Creation, and Neo Ndlela from the uMgungundlovu LGBTQ+ Film Festival. Zandile Radebe of Dynamite Youth will deliver an inspirational speech aimed at encouraging young people to pursue careers in film, followed by testimonials from festival beneficiaries Sanele Mbambo, Nkosiyomusa Ndlovu, and Mzwandile Ntshele, who will share their experiences of the support provided by the festival.
International programme
The festival boasts a comprehensive programme featuring 33 films from 13 countries, showcasing the richness and depth of global storytelling. This diverse selection offers attendees unparalleled opportunities to experience and learn from cinematic content representing cultures and perspectives from across the world.
ALSO READ: uMgungundlovu Film Festival Opens with Powerful Deaf Community Story
Educational workshops
Saturday, 16 November, will be dedicated to professional development, featuring workshops conducted by industry experts designed to empower and educate emerging filmmakers. The programme includes:
• Basic Script Writing Workshop
• Basic Film Producer Workshop
• Disability Inclusivity in Film Dialogue
• Basic Marketing and Distribution Workshop
• LGBTQ+ Inclusivity Workshop
Closing ceremony
The festival will conclude with the screening of BOBO, an inspiring tale of resilience and empowerment written by Bruno Tanya and directed by Maurice Muendo. Set in the Mathare slums of Nairobi, the film follows Bobo, an 18-year-old girl who enters a local modelling competition in a desperate attempt to save her family from a ruthless gangster threatening to seize their home.
Outstanding filmmakers will be recognised during the festival’s Awards Ceremony, celebrating exceptional creativity, storytelling excellence, and significant contributions to the film industry.
Festival mission and Suppport
Made possible through the support of the KZN Tourism and Film Authority, the uMgungundlovu Film Festival serves as a celebration of film and storytelling that aims to promote local filmmaking talent, provide platforms for emerging filmmakers, and showcase the finest examples of international cinema. The festival remains committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity throughout the film industry.
Join the celebration
The organisers invite cinema enthusiasts, industry professionals, and the broader community to join in celebrating the power of film to challenge perceptions and promote inclusivity at the 7th uMgungundlovu Film Festival.
Connect with the festival
Follow the festival’s journey on social media:
• Instagram: @uMgungundlovuFilmFestival
• Facebook: uMgungundlovu Film Festival
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