The awards included a prestigious ‘Pinnacle Award’, a ‘Directors Choice’ award, two golds, and three silvers across various conservation, wildlife, and tourism categories. In partnership with Love Africa Marketing, Babanango Game Reserve, and WILDTRUST, most of these films were shot in KwaZulu-Natal, highlighting conservation efforts and natural heritage.
‘These films were created as impactful stories in conservation and tourism in South Africa, and we are very excited they have received the recognition they deserve on an international platform,’ said Nicola Gerrard of Love Africa Marketing.
A panel of 46 jury members, representing film, digital creation, and tourism sectors, judged the films on impact, creativity, sound, style, subject matter, storytelling, and goal effectiveness. Out of 272 films in the final round, 23 finalists received 61 Silver Awards, 41 Gold Awards, and 3 Pinnacle Awards.
Cinematographer Sven Musica of Love Africa expressed gratitude for the platform provided to South African films.
Award-winning films included:
- ‘SEE US’: A Pinnacle and Gold Award in Wildlife and Conservation, co-produced by WILDTRUST and Love Africa Marketing. The film explores South Africa’s coastline and marine life.
- ‘This is Home’: A Gold Award in Sustainable and Responsible Tourism for documenting the reintroduction of black rhinos to Babanango Game Reserve.
- ‘The Battlefields’: A Silver Award in Historical Culture, highlighting the significance of Zulu battlegrounds.
- ‘Return of the King’: A Silver Award in Wildlife and Conservation, documenting the relocation of lions to Babanango Game Reserve.
- ‘Madwaleni River Lodge’: A Silver Award in Tourism Services, showcasing the new luxury lodge at Babanango Game Reserve.
The ITFFA Directors Award was given to Nicola Gerrard for her exceptional contributions to filmmaking in conservation and tourism.
‘We thank all winners and participants for promoting responsible tourism and cultural exchange through storytelling,’ said Caroline Ungersbock and James Byrne, ITFFA co-founders and directors.
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