In a bold move to reclaim African narratives, Pragna Parsotam-Kok and Noel Kok are revolutionizing the wildlife documentary industry. Their journey began with a simple observation: the lack of African voices and perspectives in wildlife storytelling. This realization sparked a mission to empower African filmmakers and scientists, leading to the establishment of the Nature Environment and Wildlife Conservation Trust (NEWF).
One of the most fascinating aspects of their work is the focus on underwater filmmaking. Noel Kok highlights the irony of African marine biologists who cannot swim or scuba dive, despite their expertise. NEWF's dive "lab" initiative aims to bridge this gap, training divers and filmmakers alike. The results are inspiring, with over 200 divers trained in Sodwana Bay and hundreds more equipped to tell authentic African wildlife stories on land.
What makes this project truly unique is its emphasis on local talent and perspectives. NEWF's composition workshops challenge the traditional use of classical music in African wildlife documentaries, advocating for music that represents the region. This approach led to a remarkable achievement: the music composed by NEWF fellows for a National Geographic film about Botswana's Okavango Delta won best original score at the Jackson Wild film festival, surpassing Hans Zimmer's score for David Attenborough's Frozen Planet II. This victory showcases the power of local talent and the importance of diverse storytelling.
The impact of NEWF extends beyond filmmaking. Silindile Mbuyazi, a local diver, found a new purpose and identity through her involvement with NEWF. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of the organization's work. Mbuyazi's partnership with NEWF led to the establishment of eKhaya, a dive and filmmaking center built on her grandmother's land. eKhaya, meaning "home" in Zulu, embodies the spirit of community and cultural connection that NEWF fosters.
As NEWF continues to grow, its impact is felt across Africa and beyond. Ethiopian filmmaker Elshadye Berhanu's experience with NEWF is a prime example of the organization's success. Berhanu gained invaluable skills and insights during her residency, allowing her to deeply connect with the cheetahs she was filming. Her story highlights the personal and creative growth that NEWF facilitates.
In conclusion, NEWF's work is a testament to the power of representation and local empowerment. By training and supporting African filmmakers and scientists, they are reshaping the wildlife documentary industry. As they continue to secure funding and expand their initiatives, the future looks bright for NEWF and the diverse stories they help bring to life.
