11/05/2026
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
The silver screen at Julios Cinelux was set ablaze Friday morning as we hosted the ESCCOM High School Short Film Competition Awards! Together with the FNB Foundation and UNESCO, we witnessed the incredible power of young storytellers from all four regions of the Kingdom.
The event kicked off with a premiere of four breathtaking films, showcasing a unique collaboration between high school visionaries and technical mentors from UNESWA and Limkokwing University.
The Big Winners: Best Film: "The Last Breath" – Mkhondvo High School (Shiselweni)
Best Lead Actress(Female)
Tainted: Bandiswa Nxumalo as Sikhanyiso
Best Supporting Actor (Male)
Mafikizolo: Ntandoyenkhosi Mabuza as Msoco
Best Supporting Actress (female)
The Last Breath: Lethokuhle Dlamini as Hlezephi
Best Scriptwriters:
Mafikizolo: Bulelani Malambe & Celimphilo Mahlaba
Best Director:
The Weight We Carry: Simelokuhle Gwebu
Best Cinematographer:
Tainted: Sineliso Dlamini
Best Editor:
Tainted: Siwakhile Nxumalo
Best Sound Design:
The last Breath: Sibanesenkhosi Maseko
Best Production Design:
The Last Breath: Owethu Nkambule
Best Production Manager:
The Weight We Carry: Jessica Nhleko
Best Film
The Last Breath, by Mkhondvo High School
As our Director of Legal & Compliance (representing the Acting CEO) noted, this isn't just a competition—it’s a thriving, connected ecosystem designed to nurture talent and bridge the gap between classroom and career.
A special thank you to our esteemed panel of judges, including industry pros Zindzi Zungu and Kagiso Modupe (SA), alongside our local experts Samkeliso Nxumalo, Phesheya Nxumalo, and Musonda Chimba.
Congratulations to all the finalists! You aren't just the stars of tomorrow; you are the creators of today.