Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
A bold new storytelling initiative aimed at empowering Zimbabwe’s young creatives was launched on Monday, as Langelitsha Arts unveiled the Schools Creative Response Ensuring Artistic Magnificence (SCREAM) pilot film training programme at the Bulawayo Theatre.
This ground-breaking programme is designed to nurture the next generation of Zimbabwean filmmakers while promoting cultural pride and essential creative skills.
Driven by its mission to “unlock the innermost creative potential in young people”, Langelitsha Arts — a multidisciplinary organisation registered with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) — piloted SCREAM in three Bulawayo schools during the 2024–2025 academic year: Founders High School, Mpopoma High Schooland Eveline High School.
Outlining the programme’s core objectives, Langelitsha Arts principal director Nkosana Mlibazi said the initiative aims to foster collaboration across schools and cultural backgrounds, while promoting cultural preservation and awareness through film.
“Our mission is to empower young people and vulnerable communities to contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe’s cultural industries,” he said.
The SCREAM programme unfolds in three phases.
“First, students attend intensive workshops led by industry professionals, covering storytelling, scriptwriting, pre-production, camera work, editing and marketing. Next, they form teams to write, direct, and edit original short films under mentorship from graduates of the Geraldine Roche Drama Academy.
“Finally, the project culminates in a red-carpet event showcasing the student films, complete with awards and a panel discussion on youth, film and cultural preservation.”
The launch featured the premiere of three compelling 15-minute student films. Mpopoma High School’s Nyusa Amamarks Mbalisi explored the societal pressures pupils face, including complex relationships. Eveline High School’s Black Sheep tackled the pressing issue of bullying within schools, while Founders High School’s All That Glitters Is Not Gold examined young love and the tension between loyalty and materialism.
Guest of honour and celebrated arts figure Styx Mhlanga, praised the students’ creativity and energy.
“I’m happy to see young people telling their own stories. They bring a unique voice that we don’t have. The energy and excitement they show is commendable. The students understood the assignment and, in just 15 minutes, captured powerful themes and characters,” said Mhlanga.
Lynmary Sithole, a teacher and drama patron at Mpopoma High School, echoed these sentiments: “It’s refreshing to see young people telling their own stories in their own way — deeply engaged in scriptwriting, acting and directing without interference from the old guard.”
Awards were presented to outstanding participants by a panel of seasoned artists. Lwandleluhle Moyo of Eveline High School won Best Supporting Actor/Actress; Anita Chipfunde from Mpopoma High School received Best Actress; Tajeka Ndlovu from Founders High School took Best Actor; and Mpopoma High School was named Outstanding School in Film.
The pilot’s success was boosted by a strategic partnership with the Geraldine Roche Acting Academy, which provided essential technical support, equipment, and professional mentorship.
Looking ahead, Langelitsha Arts plans to expand SCREAM to 15 to 20 schools in the province, with aspirations to establish a nationwide film festival.
“Plans are underway to make SCREAM a permanent fixture on the school arts calendar, supported by new partnerships with universities, film studios, and cultural agencies,” said Mlibazi.
The SCREAM launch aligns closely with Zimbabwe’s broader cultural development gowals, including the five-year film and television strategy unveiled last year by the NACZ and the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation. — @MbuleloMpofu
Sidumisile Mabena