The national schools film competition spearheaded by the Eswatini Communications Commission crowned the overall winner for its short film The Last Breath. Produced, casted and shot at Mkhondvo high school.
The production earned the winners a whooping E50,000 cash prize, closing months of training, mentorship and production work that brought together learners, teachers, tertiary students and film industry professionals from across the country and neighboring South Africa.
This competition was designed to nurture emerging storytellers while exposing learners to the practical side of filmmaking.
The initiative began earlier this year and attracted about 22 entries from schools across the country before being narrowed down to four finalists representing Eswatini’s regions.
Production
Although competitive in nature, the event placed strong emphasis on storytelling with purpose. The four films tackled difficult but relatable themes affecting many young people, including bullying, mental health struggles, drug abuse, peer pressure and unethical relationships.
The productions also reflected the growing confidence of young creatives in telling local stories through film while addressing real social issues affecting schools and communities.
“Whether your name is called or not, live to understand that your name matters. Value is in how many people it touched and changed perspectives and all the four films did just that,” he said.
The statement captured the mood of the evening, where recognition was not only placed on winners but also on the impact the productions had on audiences and fellow learners.
Speaking on behalf of ESCCOM, Ozzie Thakatha reflected on how the programme evolved from a simple call for entries into a fully developed creative platform.
“The journey began in February. When we launched, we had 22 entries with unique voices and fresh perspectives, but four made it to this stage to get their stories professionally produced into film,” said Thakatha.
“You did not just participate, you delivered. It was not only to test talent, but to nurture it.”
He said one of the most important outcomes of the initiative was the collaboration between learners, tertiary students and established industry professionals who worked together throughout the process.
“Across pupils and the tertiary teams that also stepped in, we saw a thriving ecosystem. Thank you to the industry experts who patiently gave their time through training, masterclasses and support. This would not have reached this level of impact without them,” he said.
Thakatha further acknowledged the role played by sponsors and partners in helping turn the initiative into a national platform for youth storytelling.
He also thanked the FNB Foundation and UNESCO for supporting the programme which could not have taken off without their positive contributions and expressed optimism about the future of film in Eswatini.
“The future of the film industry is already here sitting in this auditorium,” he added.
Individual award categories
The competition also rewarded excellence in individual production categories, with winners in each category receiving a E5,000 cash prize for their contribution to the films.
The films were judged by Zindzi Zungu and Kagiso Modupe from South Africa, as well as Samkeliso Nxumalo, Phesheya Nxumalo and Musonda Chimba.
Seasoned Zindzi Zungu of Star Light also added to the excitement sharing that they as Star light will also be adding to the take home the outstanding lead actor and actress:
“ We would like to congratulate the production team for these films, and their dedication to their craft. As Star Light would like to also award the Best Actor and Actress with a professional photoshoot as they build their profiles, Legal representation while they navigate their way through the creative industry and the two will also have the opportunity to be a part of a live shooting set in South Africa”
The presence of industry professionals added a professional standard to the competition while also giving learners exposure to experienced voices within the film and television sector.
For many participants, the competition represented more than just a school activity. It became an introduction to filmmaking as a possible career path, while also creating space for young people to speak openly about social realities through creative expression.
With mentorship sessions, masterclasses and professional production support forming part of the programme, the initiative also reflected the growing investment being made into Eswatini’s creative economy and youth-led storytelling.
Award Winners
● Best Film: The Last Breath
● Best Lead Actor (Male): Marlik Greenhead as Musa in The Weight We Carry
● Best Lead Actress (Female): Bandiswa Nxumalo as Sikhanyiso in Tainted
● Best Supporting Actor (Male): Ntandoyenkhosi Mabuza as Msoco in Mafikizolo
● Best Supporting Actress (Female): Lethokuhle Dlamini as Hlezephi in The Last Breath
● Best Scriptwriters: Bulelani Malambe and Celimphilo Mahlaba for Mafikizolo
● Best Director: Simelokuhle Gwebu for The Weight We Carry
● Best Cinematographer: Sineliso Dlamini for Tainted
● Best Editor: Siwakhile Nxumalo for Tainted
● Best Sound Design: Sibanesenkhosi Maseko for The Last Breath
● Best Production Design: Owethu Nkambule for The Last Breath
● Best Production Manager: Jessica Nhleko for The Weight We Carry
