Talent platform entrants exposed to the pros at Encounters Film Festival

As the custodian of the My Community Connects platform and an Encounters Film Festival sponsor, Vuma’s goal is to ensure that young, up-and-coming talented individuals across South Africa have access to valuable opportunities for professional and personal growth – calling on all Kasi aspiring superstars to create, connect and elevate their talent. “Having the chance to attend the Encounters festival allows these individuals to gain insight into and exposure within one of South Africa’s most eclectic industries,” says Vuma’s Brand Manager Mathilda Robertson.

“Creating this pathway for our My Community Connects entrants is one of the many ways we are going about adding meaning and value to their experience as part of this platform, but also comes back to our overarching ethos: Because we can, we must,” she says.

“An important aspect of nurturing talent is exposing them to new perspectives and the wider industry that they form part of. We believe this contributes towards sustainability in the creative sector and ensuring more young creatives, hustlers, innovators and entrepreneurs are able to get a foot in the door.”

My Community Connects is a platform for the country’s talent to showcase their work to the world, allowing people from all walks of life, industries and disciplines to share their stories while driving economic recovery across South African industries.

Akido Malabela, founder of Malabela Photography and My Community Connects entrant who also attended the festival, says “Platforms like these are really important for young and talented individuals, especially those in townships who struggle with access to information and opportunity. Just as important is access to the internet for up-and-comers, who wouldn’t have the chance to benefit from opportunities like My community Connects and by extension the Encounters Festival, without it.”