1. What inspired the story behind your short film?
The rise in gender-based violence and femicide in South Africa deeply troubled me. As Nina Simone said, “How can you be an artist and not reflect the times?” Conversations with friends, brothers, and cousins made me realise how normalized catcalling and disrespect toward women have become. As a filmmaker, this was my way of challenging that culture and responding through art.

2. What message or emotion do you hope the audience takes away from your film?
I want the audience—especially men—to sit in discomfort and reflection. This film confronts how patriarchy breeds silence, fear, and complicity. It’s a mirror to society and a call to unlearn violence, to interrogate our roles, and to demand change. The time for passive empathy has passed.

3. What’s your go-to creative ritual before a shoot day?
I pray. It grounds me and reminds me why I’m telling this story.

4. What’s one film you wish you had directed and why?
Instead of a film, I’ll mention a book: Young Blood by Sifiso Mzobe. I remember reading it and thinking, this would make an incredible debut feature. The raw energy, the youthful urgency—it aligns perfectly with my creative voice. If the producers who hold the rights are reading this… consider this a friendly nudge.

5. If you had to shoot a short film using only three props, what would they be?
A cigarette, a car, and a harmonica.

6. What’s your guilty pleasure movie or series you rewatch all the time?
Spinners.

7. Why are short films important in today’s media landscape?
Short films are accessible and potent. They give new voices a platform without needing massive budgets. In Africa, shorts are how we claim our space and share our stories—raw, urgent, and unfiltered.

8. What advice would you give to someone making their first short?
Don’t wait for the perfect moment or permission—start with what you have. This industry has no blueprint. You’ll find your voice by doing, failing, and trying again. Carve your own path, and don’t compare it to anyone else’s.

9. What’s the one question you wish interviewers asked you—and how would you answer it?
Question: What do you want to be remembered as?
Answer: A son, a brother, a friend. One day, a husband and a father. In this industry, it’s easy to chase validation from strangers and forget those who love us honestly. I want to be remembered not just for my work—but for how I showed up for the people who truly matter.

10. Why are festivals like the FAME Shorts Film Festival so important?
They give Black African filmmakers a platform to be seen, celebrated, and taken seriously. FAME Shorts not only affirms our stories but also builds an ecosystem that strengthens our industry. As a curator, I know how critical audience development is—and festivals like FAME play a vital role in that growth.