South African Stories

Documentaries and short films

South African Stories showcases authentic, insightful and thought-provoking South African stories. Captured intimately and told by people, both ordinary and iconic, these stories are revealing, heartbreaking and inspiring – a moving testimony to a compassionate people in search of their own identity.

All films are online, click on photo to visit page.

A personal journey – Stories of identity and belonging against a backdrop of racism and social economic turmoil in South Africa.

Anti-apartheid activist Ahmed Kathrada, Nelson Mandela’s advisor and friend.

A heartwarming story about children’s dreams in the townships of Cape Town.

Portrait of Ela, South African activist, and granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi.

A story of a rapidly increasing group, the poor whites – people who live out of sight, in silence, and in shame.

The South African Border War during the 70’s and 80’s, death squads and war veterans suffering from PTSD.

A provocative film of the Afrikaner extremist movement of the early 90’s.

With bow and arrow the Khoisan enter the 20th Century claiming their land that was taken away from them.

The work of controversial photographer Roger Ballen photographing people in Johannesburg.

The work of controversial photographer Roger Ballen photographing people in Johannesburg.

Filmed in Johannesburg. Experimental film in collaboration with photographer Roger Ballen

A personal journey – Stories of identity and belonging against a backdrop of racism and social economic turmoil in South Africa.