INCLUSIVE LENS AWARDS

A pioneering celebration dedicated to honouring and elevating the voices that enrich our screens and our lives through diversity and inclusion, the Inclusive Lens Awards recognise the creators, storytellers, and innovators who are breaking traditional boundaries and showcasing the breadth of human experience.

In the dynamic landscape of film and television, the power of representation plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions, inspiring change, and fostering a more inclusive society. The Inclusive Lens Awards are designed to spotlight and reward exceptional efforts in the portrayal and inclusion of diverse narratives and characters, with a special focus on LGBTQ+ representation, disability awareness, and the depiction of diversity in children's content.

The awards ceremony, powered by Urban Brew Studios, took place in MIP Africa Theatre 1 at the CTICC 2 on Tuesday, 3 September.

KIZAZI MOTO: GENERATION FIRE

Various

Distributor: Disney+
Production company: Triggerfish Animation Studios
Short Synopsis:  The action-packed animated sci-fi anthology presents ten futuristic visions from six African countries inspired by the continent’s diverse histories and cultures. Executive produced by Oscar®-winning director Peter Ramsey, these ten short films made by a new generation of animation creators draw on uniquely African perspectives to imagine brave new worlds of advanced technology, aliens, spirits, and monsters - all from a uniquely African perspective. This is Africa as audiences have never seen it before.

Recognised for: "Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire" exemplifies outstanding inclusive and diverse representation for older children by celebrating African cultures through a futuristic lens. This animated anthology showcases a variety of African stories, myths, and folklore, offering rich, authentic narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. It features characters from different backgrounds, genders, and abilities, fostering empathy and understanding among young viewers. This series empowers older children to see themselves in their heroes, inspiring a generation to value and embrace diversity in all its forms.

WHAT'S EATING MY MIND?

Kenya/South Africa

Distributor: STEPS
Production companies: LBx Africa (Kenya) and STEPS (South Africa)
Short Synopsis:  After waking up in a psychiatric ward in the US, Noella had to quit film school and return to Kenya due to a bipolar disorder diagnosis. Unfamiliar with managing the condition, she begins filming herself and her family as they navigate this journey. She meets Nick, diagnosed with schizophrenia while studying to be a priest in Colombia. When Nick disappears, Noella helps his family search for him, all while dealing with her mother's illness. Amidst these challenges, she finds herself caught in a personal storm, striving to understand and manage her condition.

Recognised for: "What's Eating My Mind?"authentically portrays the struggles and triumphs of individuals with mental health conditions. It highlights the resilience of Noella and Nick, challenging stereotypes and fostering understanding and empathy. Their stories emphasize the importance of community support, raising awareness, and advocating for better mental health resources and inclusion.

iNUMBER NUMBER: JOZI GOLD

South Africa 

Distributor: Netflix
Production company: Quizzical Pictures
Short Synopsis: When an undercover cop is tasked with investigating a historic gold heist in Johannesburg, he’s forced to choose between his conscience and the law..

Recognised for: "iNumber Number: Jozi Gold" stands out for its authentic representation of people living with disabilities through the character of Dikeledi, a deaf gang leader. The film integrates Dikeledi's character seamlessly into the narrative, showcasing his leadership, intelligence, and resilience without resorting to stereotypes. By portraying Dikeledi as a vital and respected member of the gang, the film promotes inclusivity and challenges societal perceptions of disability.

ACTIVATED

South Africa 

Distributor: SABC 2
Production company: Trace TV
Short Synopsis: "Activated" is a compelling talk show hosted by Tarryn Tomlinson that examines disability through a human rights lens, emphasising societal responsibility in reshaping perceptions. By showcasing personal stories and systemic challenges, the series highlights inclusive practices and policies, advocating for a world where persons with disabilities are valued and treated equally.

Recognised for: By showcasing personal stories and systemic challenges, "Activated" highlights the importance of inclusive practices and policies. It aims to shift the narrative, advocating for a world where persons with disabilities are seen and treated as equal, valued members of society. This series is a crucial step towards fostering understanding, empathy, and meaningful change.

BINNELANDERS

South Africa

Distributor: KykNet
Production company: Stark Productions
Short Synopsis:  "Binnelanders" is a long-running South African medical drama set in the fictional Binneland Clinic. The series follows the lives of doctors, nurses, and staff as they navigate the challenges of the healthcare industry, personal relationships, and ethical dilemmas. With its engaging mix of medical cases and intricate personal stories, "Binnelanders" explores themes of love, ambition, and resilience. The show offers a compelling look at the highs and lows of life in a bustling medical environment, capturing the essence of humanity and compassion.

Recognised for: "Binnelanders" is recoginised for its authentic portrayal of disabilities through the character of Dr Rian Malherbe, played by paraplegic actor Erik Holmes. By casting an actor with a disability in a significant role, "Binnelanders" highlights the capabilities and contributions of individuals with disabilities within the medical field. The show’s commitment to realistic and respectful storytelling sets a powerful example in the industry.

THE RADICAL

South Africa

Distributor: Global Digital Releasing 
Production company: Good Work 
Short Synopsis:  “The Radical” is an intimate portrait of Muhsin Hendricks, a South African man who became the world’s first openly gay imam. Hendricks leads a devoted group of queer muslims, having started an organisation to support the LGBTQI+ community and running a personal empowerment programme that helps Muslims reconcile their sexuality with their faith. The film chronicles individual journeys to queer acceptance, and the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights across Africa, as a diversity of Muslim people negotiate these tensions.

Recognised for: "The Radical" is recognised for its authentic portrayal of Muhsin Hendricks, the world's first openly gay imam. The film highlights his work supporting queer Muslims and reconciling faith with sexuality, providing first-person accounts of growing up queer in a conservative South African Muslim community, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights across Africa.

RUNS IN THE FAMILY 

South Africa 

Distributor: Indigenous Film Distribution
Production company: Giant Films
Short Synopsis:  A reformed con artist and single dad, Varun, takes his transmasculine son, River, on a road trip across the South Africa-eSwatini border to break River’s estranged mother out of rehab. When injury befalls River’s drag partner, his mother propels father and son to partner up for a drag competition that could win River his gender affirming surgery, if Varun and Monica’s shady grifting past doesn’t catch up with them. 

Recognised for:  "Runs In The Family" masterfully combines the themes of family, identity, and redemption through the compelling journey of Varun and his transmasculine son, River. Their road trip to reunite their fractured family while striving for River's gender-affirming surgery is a heartfelt and exhilarating narrative. The film's portrayal of complex LGBTQ+ experiences, enriched by cultural and personal challenges, resonates deeply.

BEAULAH: QUEENS VAN DIE KAAP

South Africa

Distributor: MultiChoice Studios
Production company: POP24
Short Synopsis:  Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap is a new reality TV show about Cape Town’s drag queens, including multi-award winner Emogan Moore, Miss Sovereign Western Cape winner Ina Propriette, Miss Cape Town Pride winner Kat Gilardi, SA’s Got Talent runner up Manila von Teez, Miss Gay Western Cape winner Maxine Wilde, and rival house mothers BB Vahlour and Madisson Scarr.  

Recognised for: "Beaulah: Queens van die Kaap" is recognised for its authentic and vibrant portrayal of Cape Town's drag queen scene providing an eye-opening introduction to this colourful community while offering an insider's look into the world of extreme transformations, fashion, and sisterhood.

WYFIE

South Africa

Distributor: MultiChoice Studies 
Production company: Homebrew Studios 
Short Synopsis:  An edgy, youthful urban drama follows four young women navigating the complexities of university life. Balancing mischief and moral dilemmas, they face adult challenges head-on, learning to survive in a world filled with temptations and tough decisions. As they grapple with relationships, academics, and their personal ambitions, their bond is tested, and their resilience shines through. This series explores the thin line between right and wrong, capturing the essence of youthful rebellion and the journey to adulthood. 

Recognised for: "Wyfie" masterfully portrays the complexities of university life for four young women. Balancing mischief and moral dilemmas, the characters' journeys highlight resilience and personal growth. Through its engaging narrative, "Wyfie" captures the essence of youthful rebellion and the journey to adulthood.

Vida Fantabisher, a staple in Cape Town's drag scene, has been dazzling audiences for 12 unforgettable years. Her journey from a fledgling performer to a seasoned queen is a testament to her passion for glamour, comedy, Broadway showmanship, and all things theatrical.

But Vida's story goes beyond the stage; she's a scholar of the art form she loves. With a master's degree exploring the intricacies of drag within Cape Town's vibrant cultural tapestry, Vida's commitment to the craft is undeniable.

Today, she shares her wisdom and experience as a lecturer in Character Design & Styling at AFDA, inspiring the next generation of creative minds. Vida Fantabisher's boundless energy, charisma, and dedication make her a beloved figure in both the drag and academic worlds, proving that her love for glamour and theatrics knows no bounds.

Zoey Black: A Trailblazer in Queer and Transgender Advocacy

Zoey Black is a queer transgender woman of colour based in Cape Town, South Africa. She is a versatile documentary filmmaker, film photographer, and human rights activist committed to telling authentic and engaging queer stories. Zoey graduated from the University of Cape Town as a professionally trained actress and boasts over a decade of experience in live performance, training and facilitation, producing, and activism. Her work is deeply focused on documenting the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly the experiences of transgender and gender-diverse people.

Zoey's YouTube channel is a pioneering platform in South Africa, dedicated to exploring social and lifestyle issues relevant to the LGBTQIA+ community. It serves as an essential resource, providing accessible information on trans-specific topics and fostering greater understanding and awareness.

As an activist, Zoey is a vocal advocate for trans rights and visibility. She engages with organizations and government stakeholders to drive social change and law reform. Her leadership roles include serving on the Board of Directors for two non-profit organizations and being a member of the Steering Committee of the Southern African Trans Forum.

In addition to her advocacy and filmmaking, Zoey is a published author and editor. Her notable contributions include "They Called Me Queer" (2019), "Trans Rural Narratives" (2020), and "Keeping the Promise of Dignity and Freedom for All" (2020). Zoey Black continues to inspire and impact her community through her unwavering commitment to storytelling, activism, and education.