Bongani Buzzman began his creative journey as an intern on the popular BTV drama “Re Bina Mmogo” before founding a multimedia company that offers postproduction services for music videos, television commercials, and documentaries. The transition to Lightwork Studios stemmed from his desire to tell stories that resonate with Batswana. The company has produced six seasons of “Flavours of Africa,” a food television series for Botswana Television, and numerous television commercials for some of Botswana’s prominent brands.
“Khumo ya Dinaledi” depicts the life of a college dropout who has to rebuild his life after recklessly squandering his inheritance. The characters and temptations that lead to the main actor’s downfall present a danger to his efforts to transform his character and discover a new purpose.
“Buying the Cow” follows the intertwined lives of a couple as they navigate the complexities of modern love and ambition. Their relationship, initially a sanctuary, begins to strain under the weight of cultural expectations.
The films aim to tell African stories in a way that resonates with the audience, and Bongani emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances of African culture to tell these stories authentically. He also highlights the impact of social media on modern storytelling. He says storytelling was previously confined to traditional media and was predominantly culture-influenced. However, social media has redefined truth and authenticity. The public lives on social media do not often reflect life behind the scenes, sometimes even affecting relationships. Additionally, anyone with a smartphone and an internet connection can create and share their stories with a global audience, leading to a proliferation of diverse voices and perspectives, challenging traditional narratives, and fostering a more varied storytelling landscape.
Bongani argues that Africans are the best storytellers of African stories due to their deep-rooted cultural understanding and lived experiences. He says they possess an intimate knowledge of African traditions, history, and social dynamics that allows them to authentically portray the complexities of African life. Additionally, his storytelling aims to empower African voices, challenge stereotypes, and promote a more nuanced understanding of the continent.
While he has produced other major productions before, Bongani considers having his films featured on DStv a significant breakthrough, which he highly regards. He says it will enhance his reputation and credibility within the industry and attract attention from other potential distributors and investors. Bongani calls on Batswana to follow local stories when they feature on DStv.
Botswana stories on DStv offer a unique opportunity to connect with the country’s culture, history, and experiences. By watching local films and documentaries, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of their heritage and the stories of their fellow Batswana. These stories can also promote a sense of national pride and unity. Additionally, supporting Botswana filmmakers helps to grow the local film industry and create job opportunities. Watching Botswana stories on DStv is a way to celebrate the country’s rich cultural tapestry and support its creative industries.
