Direct this

She came from a small town in the Eastern Cape with only a dream, and a few years later, Nomakhomazi’s proven to be one of the hardest working film directors in the industry. Her work includes short films, music videos, television shows and various successful TV commercials.

Have you always wanted to be a film director?
Growing up, the film industry was never seen as a career option, but having picked it up in bits and pieces over the years, I completely fell in love with the medium.

How did you start out?
I studied media and communications at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and did a short course on African film. My first job was with Urban Brew. I also worked on Zola 7 and did lots of freelance work.

Name some of the recent commercials you have directed.
I worked on a commercial for Metro FM for their 21st anniversary. It is a journey through time of a mother and son, listening to Metro FM. I also did some work for MTN and Clorets.

Describe your directing style?
I feel performance in commercials is really important. In 2007 I focused on honing my talent for performance directing. This year I’m working on refining my visual directing abilities.

Which is your all-time favourite film?
Old Boy. I love the story behind this film. Films with really great stories fascinate me.

What are your thoughts on the South African film industry?
I am a passionate, young, black female director and I feel it’s important for the film industry to recognise, develop and support young talent.

Are you involved in anything else that’s creative, besides directing commercials?
I am interested in documentaries. I love local history, and South African and African heritage. At the moment I’m researching the history of the Eastern Cape. My other passion is music. I am busy with a Drum and Bass/New Jazz album, which is a collaborative effort with bands and DJs. I’ve contributed some of the vocals on the album.

What type of music do you like?
Hip hop, Drum and Bass, and New Jazz. Anything that has a sense of energy.

Name your hottest spot in Jozi at the moment?
Sunday Detox, 7th Street, old Melville – I love the vibe.

Where do you go to escape the hustle and bustle of the city?
I like to keep things simple. I go to Durban, or I go home to Port Elizabeth.

If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would it be and why?
Brazil. The country has many similarities to South Africa – a rich culture, diverse people and a vibrant, colourful lifestyle.
It’s beautiful!

What do you like to do on the weekends?
I am drawn to new experiences that broaden my horizons. I enjoy live performance, whether it is a live act at the Baseline in Newtown, a play at the Market Theatre, or Fashion Week in Cape Town. It’s all about the experience.

- True Love