A new star is rising in South Africa's creative landscape! The inaugural Naledi Film Festival will light up Vryburg from 8–9 August 2025, offering a powerful platform for young voices, bold stories, and authentic African narratives.
Organized by Rapitsi Development Projects in partnership with Monate Africa and the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), this youth-driven initiative is designed to empower aspiring filmmakers aged 16–35 from the Northwest Province with extended invitation to young filmmakers in Northern Cape and Free State provinces.
"Naledi" means star – a fitting name for a festival that aims to spotlight the next generation of creatives in Northwest Province. The festival serves not just as a celebration, but as an incubator for future talent, particularly in underserved and rural communities often left out of mainstream creative industry opportunities.
Admission to all festival events is FREE, with masterclass slots available on a first come, first served basis. The festival encourages participation from young people passionate about acting, filmmaking, storytelling, and cultural expression.
Festival Programme
August 8, 2025 - Day 1
09:00 - 12:00
School Tour
Venue: TBC
14:00 - 16:00
Promotional Meet & Greet
Venue: Ruth Mompati Mall
17:00 - 18:30
Pre-Screening Entertainment: DJ Set
Venue: TBC
18:30 - 19:30
Outdoor Screening: Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu (1h47)
Venue: TBC
Director: Mandla Dube
19:30 - 21:00
Post-Screening Entertainment: DJ Set
Venue: TBC
August 9, 2025 - Day 2
09:00 - 10:00
Arrival & Registration
Venue: Vryburg Theatre
10:00 - 13:00
Filmmaking Masterclass & Acting for Film Masterclass
Venue: Vryburg Theatre
14:00 - 15:00
Screenings
Venue: Vryburg Theatre
15:00 - 16:00
Panel Discussion: Starting Out in Film Industry & Careers/Business Opportunities
