Melissa Nayimuli
Producer (+ session moderator)

Melissa is a South African TV and film creative producer, storyteller, and founder of Chosi Chosi, a platform championing African storytelling and unity. With a BA in Motion Picture Medium (Cum Laude) from AFDA, she has worked across major broadcasters and global platforms. A Miss Universe South Africa 2025 titleholder, she uses her voice to reshape African narratives and celebrate identity.

Ilse Klink
Actress

Ilse is a celebrated South African actress, singer, and voice artist with a career spanning over three decades across stage, television, and film. A SAFTA winner best known for 'Isidingo', she has starred in acclaimed productions including 'Chicago', 'Scorched', and 'Mamma Mia'. She currently captivates audiences in 'Paradys', bringing depth, nuance, and authenticity to one of South Africa’s most compelling new series.

Lala Tuku
Head of Content: SABC

Lala is an award-winning creative industry leader with over 25 years’ experience across film, television, and broadcasting. As Head of Content at the SABC, she champions inclusive storytelling. An MFA graduate, her research interrogates the misrepresentation of women’s trauma. With global expertise in strategy, financing, and distribution, she drives culturally impactful, commercially viable storytelling.

Lawrancia Mqwebu
Casting + Talent Development

Lawrancia is an accomplished South African producer and creative strategist with over 22 years’ experience in film and television. At Black Brain Pictures, she has shaped content that resonates locally and globally. Her expertise spans production, development, and casting, including 'Paradys'. Passionate about inclusive storytelling, she mentors emerging talent through Media City Academy and champions industry growth.

Lorcia Cooper
Actress

Lorcia is a multi-talented performer, award-winning actress, dancer, choreographer and motivational speaker. A SAFTA winner for 'Lockdown', her career spans stage, screen and international performances. Passionate about youth empowerment, she founded Life Skills through Dance, impacting thousands of young people. She can now be seen in 'Paradys', starring as Rochelle Booysen, continuing to inspire audiences.

Mandla Ngcongwane 
Filmmaker, composer + director

Mandla is an award-winning filmmaker, composer, and creative director with over 17 years of experience across film, television, and music. A 26-time SAFTA winner, he is known for his powerful storytelling and distinctive creative vision. His work spans directing and composition, adding depth to every project. Mandla is the creative force behind Paradys, a bold series shaping South African storytelling today.

Piet Matipa
Writer

Piet is a seasoned writer known for his work in scripted television, including 'Paradys', '7de Laan', and as head writer on 'Sibongile' and 'The Dlaminis'. An award-winning former journalist, he won the Standard Bank Sikuvile Award for Young Journalist of the Year and worked as a crime reporter for 'Beeld'. He is also the author of 'Dwarsklap', reflecting on contemporary South African life.