A short student documentary produced by Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 (SU) students has earned a coveted spot at the Durban International Film Festival (DIFF) – a feat that potentially places it in the running for an Oscar. The 10-minute film, For His Sake, produced by a group of BA Honours Journalism students who graduated last year, will screen on 24 and 25 July at DIFF, South Africa's most prestigious film festival.
Set in the heart of Ida's Valley, the documentary tells the story of Faizel and his son, Shuaib, who together run Art's Barber Shop, a third-generation family business. Through quiet observation and thoughtful framing, the film captures the essence of father-son bonds, generational legacy and the role of community spaces in preserving identity.
Antoinette Steyn, the director of the film, said the team was captivated by the people and atmosphere of Ida's Valley during an early class excursion to the area. “When our editor, Abigail Baard, suggested the story of Art's, the whole team instantly connected with it. We knew it was a story that would be both deeply human and uplifting," Steyn said.
For His Sake was the practical outcome of the Department of Journalism's Documentary Storytelling course, a component of the year-long honours degree that challenges students to produce, film, edit and screen a short documentary in just three weeks. “It's definitely a huge honour," said part-time lecturer and filmmaker Jurg Slabbert of the DIFF selection. “It's not a secret that the Department is one of the best journalism schools in Africa, but it's not a film school, so it's such a treat for our students to hit it out of the park in the film realm."
According to Slabbert, For His Sake is only the second student-produced film from the Department to be screened at a festival, and the first to be selected by an Academy Award-qualifying one. A previous project by students, Of Bread and Water, premiered at the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival in 2024.
The production team behind For His Sake consisted of Steyn as director, Abigail Baard as editor, Iva Fulepu as producer and Nkululeko Ndlovu as cinematographer. Each brought a distinct strength to the project, and the film reflects their collective effort.
“Documentary storytelling was a first for all of us," said Steyn. “We relied heavily on each other's skills to get through it. Our collaboration was grounded in respect and a shared vision to uplift the Ida's Valley community."
Fulepu added that what struck the team most were the everyday moments: “Seeing how Shuaib quietly stepped into his role, taking on more leadership but still showing so much respect for his dad. It really felt like the shop was more than just a place for haircuts. It was like a living archive of the community's memories," she said and added: “Another memorable moment was when Faizel casually mentioned he's been cutting hair for something like 40 years. You could just hear the pride and humility in his voice."
The film's title, For His Sake, emerged from a moment during Faizel's interview, where he spoke about continuing the work of his father. Steyn said the phrase encapsulated the film's deeper themes: “It speaks to the sacrifices made and the reasons behind enduring hardships: many things are done 'for the sake' of loved ones. Faizel's dedication to passing on his craft and values to Shuaib reflects a legacy beyond just the barbershop; it's about family, identity and hope."
Cinematographer Ndlovu's work was singled out by Slabbert as a key element in the documentary's resonance. “Remember his name," Slabbert said. “The gorgeous cinematography sealed the deal."
The Department of Journalism's support structure played a crucial role in elevating the student projects to a professional standard. “Our faculty includes many working journalists who bring high newsroom standards into the classroom," Slabbert noted. “We also bring in guest lecturers and evaluators like Jo Munnik, Dylan Valley and Nadine Cloete, who motivate students to aim for the stars."
The team behind For His Sake has since moved on to various professional paths, but their passion for storytelling remains intact. “We all share a dream to keep telling impactful stories that highlight real South African voices and foster empathy and understanding," said Steyn.
The selection has left the team hopeful but grounded. “Honestly, it still doesn't feel real," said Baard. “This opportunity would not be possible if it wasn't for Faizel and Shuaib welcoming us into their world in such a genuine way. It's their story, and we simply have the privilege of telling it."
As for the question of a potential Oscar nod, Steyn said the team was overjoyed and slightly stunned by the news, describing it as a powerful affirmation of their work. “As for Oscars – that feels like a dream, who knows? For now, we're grateful to be part of the festival and excited to see where this journey takes us."
For now, For His Sake will be available to audiences attending DIFF, with the team hoping to expand its reach through future festivals or online screenings.
- From left to right on the banner photo: Antoinette Steyn, Iva Fulepu, Nkululeko Ndlovu and Abigail Baard.?
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