Film and TV symposium planned
Goitsemodimo Kaelo | Sunday December 4, 2022 06:00
The symposium will feature prominent British Film-maker, director, producer, actress and human rights activist, Leslee Udwin. The latter is known for her documentary called India’s daughter. According to the organisers, the event will feature a panel discussion and networking session, which will feature various stakeholders in the film and television industry. The organisers also said Udwin will be in Botswana to promote a Children’s TV series which she produced and directed. The series is commissioned by Botswana Television (Btv) and Debswana and will air on Btv in 2023. “In recognition of her abundant experience and her prominent position in the world stage, we have partnered with her so she can address the various key stakeholders in our local film and television industry to impart some of her experience, expertise and motivation,” said one of the organisers, Benny Latlhang.
He revealed that Udwin’s India’s daughter documentary will be aired at the event followed by a panel discussion. He explained that an event of this nature is an opportunity for local creatives to learn from the best. 'Leslee Udwin is a veteran in the Television and Film Industry and given her experience, success and world-wide/international acclaim, she has a wealth of knowledge and expertise to share with the local industry. This is not only for the already established professionals, but the media students at the likes of AWIL, Limkokwing and the University of Botswana. Also, note that Leslee is not too far from the end of her film career, so she needs to pass the baton on to the next generation and our media youth need to benefit from that,' he explained. Latlhang said Udwin will share with the attendants and media professionals about the importance of capturing stories that bring about positive change in their world. 'For example, Leslee's film called 'Who bombed Birmingham?' upon its release led to the release of six individuals who had been wrongfully imprisoned for 17 years. It was her research and documentation of the story that brought about this absolute positive of a change.'
Latlhang has appealed for sponsorships from local businesses. “An event of this nature carries with it and poses many logistical challenges, hence we are requesting sponsorship and partnership of any kind to make it a success,” he said. Former Vice President Dr Ponatshego Kedikilwe and Member of Parliament and former Cabinet minister, Dr Unity Down (in their capacities as Patrons of Leslee’s NGO, Think Equal) are expected to join Udwin as panel discussion experts. The symposium is will be held under the theme, 'Creating and documenting stories that add value to our cultures, societies and the world'.