JUKULYN - Directed by Thabang Hlaka

In the heart of South Africa’s evolving film landscape, a new voice has emerged, First-time filmmaker Thabang Hlaka has made his directorial debut with a short film that traces the emotional roots of his upbringing and life experiences, offering a rare glimpse into the soul of a young storyteller determined to be heard.

the short film is a reflection of Thabang’s journey—growing up in Jukulyn, navigating the challenges of his environment, and learning to express pain, hope, and identity through art. Written and directed by Thabang himself, the project is as much a personal diary as it is a love letter to his community.

“I didn’t want to create something perfect,” says Thabang. “I just wanted it to be real. I wanted people to feel like they knew the world I was showing them because it's a world that shaped me.”

What sets Thabang’s debut apart is not only the heart behind it but the way it was made. The production was small, intimate, and grassroots—but carried the energy of something much bigger. The behind-the-scenes moments, captured by the talented photographer Tshegofatso Rakwena, reveal a young team working with passion and creativity.

As he continues to edit and prepare the film for its premiere at local festivals and community screenings, Thabang remains grounded.

“This is just the beginning,” he says. “There are so many stories where I’m from. I want to tell them all.”