| The Cape Film Commission launches the annual Imbongi Awards |
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By Lisolomzi Nkitha
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l.t.r.:
CFC Public Relations Bianca Mpahlaza, Nonkanyiso Nyilika, Lisolomzi Nkitha, Candice Christians, Abigal Malamba
CFC Commissioner Laurence Mitchell and Glenn Gillis
Seated:
Chairperson of the CFC Baord Marlow De Mardt and Debra Bentham
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The Cape Film Commission recently launched the prestigious Imbongi awards to honor and celebrate the great achievements of those in the film industry so seldom honored. Imbongi is a Xhosa word meaning “praise singer”, and it is the aim of these awards to sing praises of the great industry individuals like the locations scouts, line producers, gaffers and grips who continuously play a significant role in the production of an award winning product, be it in still, commercials or long form. Laurence Mitchell Cape Film Commissioner adds that it is high time that these individuals involved in the shadows of this task get effectively recognized as it is them that really contribute to the marketing, promotion and production of the industry. He further adds that the Cape Film Commission is very proud with the response from all stakeholders.
Sybil Sands (left) receiving the Life Time Achievement award from Chairperson of the CFC Baord
Marlow De Mardt |
The Imbongi Awards were launched in a glittering function with the dazzling Natalie Becker and funny man Marc Lottering as MC’s. Councilor Simon Grindrod from the City of Cape Town delivered his keynote speech, which touched on the partnership that the city has with film producers and how this partnership should be enhanced to effectively accelerate economic development in the region.
Marlow De Mardt Chairperson of the Cape Film Commission and co-owner of DO Productions awarded the first Chairperson’s Life Time Achievement award to Sybil Sands who has contributed more than 30 years in developing high standards to the local film industry. A clearly overwhelmed Sybil said it was a great honor to finally receive an award from home.
Animation SA also launched the first annual animation awards also to honor outstanding animator in the sector. In a true demonstration of responsible filming local film makers also contributed generously to two charity organizations Hollywood Hearts and Art with Heart by bidding for artwork in an auction. This extravaganza ended with an after party at Opium.
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Lisolomzi Nkitha