Film Production and Diepsloot Youth Programme nurtures young talent

Local film production company, Umtonje, partnered with Diepsloot Youth Programme to help teach youngsters basic acting skills at Incubation Hub’s premises in Riversands.

Umtonje Film Production founder and executive director, Babikie Sathekge, said they have partnered with one of the most proactive local non-profit organisations, Diepsloot Youth Programme, to help train young aspiring actors.

“We are not only teaching them how to be a good actor or actress, we also teach them how to balance their academic and social life. “Time management is one of the most important skills for those who want to be in the film industry,” he said.

Sathekge said youngsters from townships and informal settlements also deserved equal opportunities such as those who attended private schools.

“Most of these youngsters come from poor backgrounds in communities such as Diepsloot and Riverside View, and most of them can’t afford private acting lessons like those who go to private schools. We offer this programme for free and our programme participants are only required to avail themselves and show commitment to the course.”