To mark the lnternational Day of the Girl Child on the 11th of October, a group of Victoria Falls youths took advantage of the occasion to launch a girl empowerment short film titled ‘Thandeka.’
Set in Victoria Falls, the film was produced by a 25 year old man named Fortune Mhlanga, written by Rujeko Chavhunduka, directed by Thulani Benjamin Tshuma and shot by Studio Optimum. The film aims to inspire girls to persevere in the face of adversity and staggering opposition to keep their dreams alive regardless of challenges.
“l took to producing the film after realizing that many girls drop out of school due to pregnancy before and after writing their ordinary level exams. By this film we want to inspire girls not to relinquish their dreams and education,” said Mhlanga the film producer.
He asserts that Victoria Falls youths possess untapped hidden talents that must be unearthed.”l am of the opinion that the city of Victoria Falls has many youths with great potential whose talent is concealed by lack of exposure. Our youths have long been denied the chance to showcase their capabilities,” he said.
Mhlanga who has a penchant for empowering the girl child, urged parents, stakeholders and the community at large to fully support children who show signs of talent. “l would like to encourage community members and parents to help unlock the gifts in their children. Other stakeholders should also chip in to support art. That way, we can go far with art,” he added.
The Studio Optimum Director, Tedius Muleya revealed that team work proved to be the right tonic for the success of the film.
“l am glad the team managed to pull this one off. We wouldn’t have done it if we had not worked together as a team. I believe that this our first movie, is just a start of great things to come. It will definitely pave way for more success,” he said.
Tshuma, the film director said “I am glad we managed to accomplish the project.I hope the girl child out there will learn a thing or two from Thandeka’s life experience. Personally, as an artist I really wish more people could recognise this acting proffesion as we have a lot of unexposed talent out there. We had grassroot actors whom we managed to groom into those great characters in the film. It wasnt easy to put this together in terms of the transport logistics, venue organising and other costs on a zero budget. Above all, l thank everyone who stretched a hand to make this possible.”
The production team and actors all contributed towards financing the film and ensuring the success of the production. The film is available on YouTube, an online video sharing and social media platform.
Source: Community Podium
