23 July 2025
Johannesburg, South Africa — OMG Academy (Obakeng Media Group) returns with a powerful new initiative: Folklore to Film, a visionary program aimed at unearthing Gauteng’s untapped filmmaking talent. The mission? To empower young creatives to reimagine Africa’s oral traditions as compelling, commercially viable short films for the big screen.
Rooted in cultural preservation and modern storytelling, Folklore to Film offers a transformative 12-week experience guided by acclaimed film industry mentors including Thabo Rametsi and Kgosi Choene. Participants will gain hands-on training in writing, directing, and producing, while exploring the full filmmaking pipeline—from concept to completion.
Rametsi, who earned global recognition for his portrayal of Solomon Mahlangu in Kalushi, brings his experience from Nguniverse Studios, known for their celebrated African folktale comic series Imbokodo. Choene, an award-winning screenwriter and director, lends his sharp creative eye and passion for elevating African narratives globally.
A Powerhouse Collaboration
Supported by the Gauteng Film Commission and the newly launched Ekudeni Location Studios in Muldersdrift, featuring world-class sets from tropical islands to haunted houses, village huts and water features—this initiative is a dream come true for aspiring filmmakers. And with workplace experience provided by Nguniverse Studios, participants will walk away not just inspired, but industry-ready.
“This is more than training—it’s a movement,” says Yolanda Mbelle, founder of OMG Academy. “Folklore to Film is our way of reclaiming the African narrative and opening new doors of economic opportunity in the creative sector. We’re not just telling stories—we’re building futures.”
This initiative follows the success of OMG Academy’s Film Entrepreneur Bootcamp, which focused on the business of filmmaking. This time, they’re doubling down on both the creative and commercial aspects, answering South Africa’s youth call for skills, jobs, and storytelling power.
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS
Only 12 candidates will be selected.
Requirements:
Deadline: 30 July 2025
admin@omgacademy.co.za
WhatsApp 064 504 8692
Apply here: https://tinyurl.com/FolkloreFilm
Obakeng Yolanda Mbelle
Managing Director