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    Zintle | Khobeni de Lange
    • Hero
    • Zintle's Big Blogs
    • Blog 
      • All Categories
      • Sports - Arts And Culture
      • My Story Time
      • The Readers Blog
      • Love And Relationships
      • WOSSO Fellowship Journey
      • Health And Wellness
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      • Global Challenges And Solutions
      • Politics-Entertainment and Activism
      • The Great People Of SA -Donors
      • 2025-Women's Month Blog Edition
      • The Backlash Sessions
      • Bayside Hotels Group
      • God- Ancestors and African Spirituality
    • …  
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        • Global Challenges And Solutions
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        • The Backlash Sessions
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        • God- Ancestors and African Spirituality
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      "From Skepticism to Stardom: My Journey with #HowToStopFemicide'

      Women Of The World- How To END Femicide Global Film- Thank you KGP Films

      · My Story Time
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      In 2023, an extraordinary opportunity came my way—one that would change my life and give me an experience I will treasure forever. It all started on Twitter in June when KGP Films, an Austrian production company, reached out to me. At first, I thought it was a scam. I mean, who wouldn’t? But something in me said, “Respond and see where this goes.” And thank goodness I did, because it turned out to be real.

      Their researcher contacted me to ask if I would be interested in participating in a global documentary titled HowToStopFemicide, Women of the World. They found me through my work and presence on social media. Even as I agreed to participate, I remained skeptical. But as emails started coming in and Zoom meetings were organized, it began to feel real. It wasn’t until that first Zoom meeting that I fully believed this was happening. From that moment on, everything fell into place.

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      By July, I took on the role of the film’s fixer—a completely new world for me. I was suddenly responsible for location scouting, engaging with other participants, organizing meals, and everything else a fixer does. Learning this film language and navigating this industry was both challenging and exhilarating. The crew arrived in South Africa on August 4th—my birthday. I took this as a sign from the universe, a confirmation that this project was meant to feature me. The film focused on gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide, as well as the work we do at Great People of South Africa. It felt deeply personal and necessary.

      Of course, nothing comes without challenges. On the day the crew arrived, Cape Town’s taxi associations went on strike. Most of our filming locations were in Khayelitsha, a township greatly affected by these strikes. But when something is ordained by God and blessed by our ancestors, no obstacle can stand in the way. With careful planning and the wisdom of Mr. David, who knew exactly when and how to navigate the township, we managed to proceed.

      Meeting the crew was an instant connection. Agnes, David, William, Elizabeth, Simon, Kristin, and Judith became my family for the week. We bonded effortlessly and tackled every challenge with resilience and laughter.

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      The experience was more than just about filming. It was about learning. I learned as much from them as they did from me. From culture to activism to personal growth, every moment was enriching. I remember the day Elizabeth asked me to organize lunch and introduced me to a restaurant that remains one of my favorite places to this day. Then there was Kristin and Simon, who introduced me to veganism. I had always dismissed it as a lifestyle I couldn’t relate to, but their passion and kindness opened my eyes. While I still love my pap and meat (no shame there), I now respect the discipline and values of veganism thanks to them.

      Elizabeth and William also left a lasting impression. Their 20-plus years together as a couple in the film industry were inspiring. Their love and mutual respect reminded me of what healthy relationships can look like. And then there was Simon and Judith—quiet but kind. Their gift of a portable phone charger, noticing how much load-shedding affected me, was both thoughtful and heartwarming. Small acts of kindness like these meant the world to me.

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      This wasn’t just a professional opportunity; it was deeply personal. My mother’s pride and joy in seeing her daughter filmed by an international crew filled my heart. It was a healing experience for both of us, especially after losing my father just months earlier. The crew’s presence brought light and hope to our family during a challenging time.

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      Even after filming ended, the crew remained supportive in my life. Recently, I reached out to them for help with a personal matter, and they didn’t hesitate to assist. Their kindness and unwavering support continue to amaze me. As I write this, I am filled with gratitude and anticipation. The documentary is set to premiere this year, in 2025. I’m both nervous and excited, but I’ve already told them—this film will win awards. From my lips to God’s ears and my ancestors’ blessings, may it be so.

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      This journey has been a testament to the power of trust, resilience, and divine timing. It’s not just a film; it’s a movement, a story, and a celebration of voices fighting against GBV and femicide. Congratulations to all of us who made it happen.

      Here’s to telling our stories, changing the world, and honoring those who came before us.

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