Meet The Leaders

African stories matter. Through film, we preserve history, empower voices, and create opportunities for the next generation.

With an unwavering commitment to storytelling, industry development, and socio-economic transformation, Zinziswa Soga stands as a trailblazer in the South African film industry. Her visionary leadership, innovative projects, and relentless pursuit of equity in the creative space make her a key figure in the future of African cinema.

Zinziswa Soga

A Trailblazer in the South African Film Industry

Zinziswa Soga – A Trailblazer in the South African Film Industry

Zinziswa Soga is a renowned filmmaker, communication specialist, strategist, and social entrepreneur dedicated to the growth and transformation of the South African film and creative industries. Born in Mdantsane, East London. She has made significant strides in film production, cultural heritage preservation, and economic empowerment for marginalized communities.

As the Founder and Director of Nobert Kelvin Film, a 100% Black woman-owned production company, Zinziswa has championed storytelling that uplifts African narratives, ensuring that historically overlooked voices are heard. The company specializes in film production, documentaries, TV commercials, corporate shoots, and post- production services, working with local and international clients to produce high-quality visual content.

A Leader in Cultural Heritage and Film Industry Development

Zinziswa has been instrumental in the preservation of South African history through film,producing notable documentaries such as Sikhumbula uMaqoma, which highlights the legacyof Prince Maqoma. This film was widely recognized and supported by the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Heritage (ECPHRA). Her passion for cultural storytelling led to her recognition as a National Heritage Ambassador at the 2024 GOSHA Awards, a testament to her commitment to safeguarding indigenous narratives.

Her work extends beyond filmmaking into policy advocacy and industry development, collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Eastern Cape government and corporate institutions, to create sustainable opportunities for young and emerging creatives.

Empowering Creatives Through Film Festivals

Zinziswa is also the visionary behind the Amathole District Film Festival (ADFF), A groundbreaking initiative that serve as catalysts for industry development. The festivals are designed to empower emerging and established creatives by providing them with access to:

The festival also contribute to the economic revitalization of marginalized communities, positioning the Eastern Cape as a competitive hub for film production in South Africa.

A Champion for Socio-Economic Development

Zinziswa’s work is deeply rooted in social impact, particularly in fostering economic opportunities for youth and women in the creative sector. Through her initiatives, she actively works to break barriers in the industry, promote diversity, and advocate for equitable access to resources.

Her influence and strategic partnerships with government agencies, corporate sponsors, and educational institutions continue to reshape the film industry, ensuring that emerging talent from rural and urban areas is equipped with the skills, exposure, and platforms needed to thrive.

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Our mission is to bridge the gap between emerging creatives and industry leaders, ensuring sustainable careers in film, television, and digital media. We believe in the power of storytelling to inspire, educate, and drive socio-economic change, and ADFF is committed to unearthing raw talent, creating employment opportunities, and showcasing Eastern Cape’s rich heritage on global screens.