The South African documentary Kushaya Igagasi has received the award for Best Short Film at the second annual Portuguese Surf Film Festival (PSFF) which took in July 2013. The e.tv local documentary aired on the channel in January.
The documentary, produced by Megan Steyn and directed by Olmega Mthiyane of Blue Fire Productions, aimed to capture the support and hope street kids found through surfing. “It’s important to always emphasise there is hope for a brighter and safer future for street kids, especially when they are able to engage in healthy activities like surfing. We all have a role to play in raising a child,” says director Olmega Mthiyane.
PSFF celebrates the surfing culture, which the film portrayed very well. “We are honoured that once again our local content is receiving international recognition. Kushaya Igagasi is one of many e.tv programmes that highlight the unique and often inspirational stories of everyday South Africans. The production team did an excellent job in conveying a story that our viewers can relate to,” says Monde Twala, e.tv head of channel.