Mandisa Zitha (third from left), director of the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival and Steven Markovitz (second from left), director of Big World Cinema, received Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters (Ordre des Arts et des Lettres) medals. (Supplied/Kwei Shun-Yu)
- Two South African film industry professionals received honours from the French government for their contributions to African cinema.
- Mandisa Zitha and Steven Markovitz received Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters (Ordre des Arts et des Lettres) medals.
- The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres recognises significant contributions to the arts and literature.
Two South African film industry professionals received prestigious honours from the French government for their contributions to African cinema.
Last week, at a reception in Cape Town, Mandisa Zitha, director of the Encounters South African International Documentary Festival, and Steven Markovitz, director of Big World Cinema, received Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters (Ordre des Arts et des Lettres) medals.
The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres recognises significant contributions to the arts and literature.
The awards were bestowed by David Martinon, the ambassador of France in South Africa.
Zitha said in a statement: “I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the selection committee for this recognition. I am fortunate to be surrounded by some of the most talented and dedicated individuals.”
She added: “Together, we have laid the foundation to create a platform in Encounters, that truly celebrates local storytelling and presents myriad opportunities in ways we never imagined.”
In a separate statement, Markovitz said: “It was an honour to be recognised by the French government for contributions to African cinema… I look forward to continue working with African filmmakers to tell stories that challenge the dominant narrative of Africa.”
“France is delighted to award the prestigious Chevaliers de l’ordre des Arts et des Lettres to these two exceptional nominees,” Martinon said in a statement.
“This honour recognises their significant contributions to the arts, celebrating their talent, dedication, and impact on the cultural sphere in South Africa,” he added.
“By bestowing this distinction, France acknowledges their role in strengthening the artistic ties between our nations and sparking a rich exchange of creativity and innovation,” Martinon continued.
He said: “Their work not only enriches the South African film industry but also resonates on a global scale. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to their continued success and influence in the world of cinema.”
READ | SA photographer Tshepiso Mazibuko lauded by the French at prestigious Rencontres d’Arles
