Award-winning actor and director Thomas Gumede continues to make waves in the film industry, adding another accolade to his growing list of achievements. His latest film, Family & Rugby, recently won the Best Feature Film award at the Krimson Horyzon International Film Festival in India.
The 39-year-old filmmaker, known for his work on Kedibone, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, and Bay of Plenty, expressed his gratitude for the international recognition. Speaking to Daily Sun, Thomas said he was both surprised and honored by the win.
“It’s surprising every time it happens. We first won at the New York Film and Cinematography Awards and Dreamz Catcher International Film Festival in India. This is our third win, also in India. I never imagined a project shot in a small town with limited time would earn awards,” he said.
Thomas, who has built a reputation for telling authentic African stories, emphasized that filmmaking is more than just a career for him—it’s his passion and purpose.
“It’s the only thing I’ve been number one at, won awards for. I feel I’m contributing to society, whether in entertainment or education. There’s no plan B,” he said.
Reflecting on the current state of the film industry, Thomas noted both the challenges and progress being made.
“There’s a big focus on African storytelling now. It used to be production companies telling black stories from their own perspective, but now young black producers tell their own stories,” he said.
He also spoke about his approach to filmmaking, particularly with Kedibone, where his main goal was to capture an authentic South African experience rather than catering to international expectations.
“I aimed to show Soweto for what it is, not tailoring it for an international audience. The more you focus on a real local audience, those textures attract international viewers because they’re unique,” he explained.
With another international award under his belt, Thomas Gumede is proving that South African stories have a global appeal, and his dedication to the craft is paying off.
