Exco

Spanning a career of over 30 years in film making, I have had the opportunity to experience all forms of content production including tv commercials, online content, feature films, music videos, documentary’s, tv shows and corporative video’s as well as a short dabble in advertising agency production in both tv and radio. In 2012, along with film director Trevor Clarence, I started the production company Your Girlfriend. Your Girlfriend specialises in production for both local and international content in South Africa. Besides representation and production for our directors, the company is also set up to service any job shooting in South Africa. I’ve served on the Commercial Producers Association (CPA) Executive Committee for over 14 years and I have been on the Loerie Awards Board and Committee for 3 years (2019 – 2022).

Having graduated from AFDA in 2003, Adam wasted no time in setting up his production company with his late business partner, Ryan Poole. The Star Film Company was born while in his honours year at AFDA and today is considered one of the top production houses in South Africa. Adam’s focus is on the production of short form content for the advertising industry. In his tenure his work has managed to pick up numerous trophies and awards from festivals around the world. Besides for these accolades, Adam has been fortunate enough to produce work across the globe. From Los Angeles to Accra, Cairo to Cape Town, Moscow to Nairobi, and many more. The excitement for Adam is the lack of the mundane office cubicle and that each day brings a new experience. Adam’s expertise lie in the business side of film making and knowing when to spend and when to cut deals. Putting the money in front of the camera and making sure scheduling and logistics are always on point. Over his time in the industry, Adam has made a great name for himself as Executive Producer and is a well-respected individual.

Producing has always been in Darren's blood This was clearly showcased when he won "best producer of the year" for 3 years in a row during his tenure at AFDA. Driven by a vision to create original and occasionally controversial work, Darren has remained unyielding to his principles of producing meaningful content in all projects he undertakes. His career has seen him produce some of South Africa's most memorable commercials, short films and a feature. This has seen him being selected on various awards judging panels, namely: Ciclope Africa, Ciclope Berlin, The Loerie Awards, AdForum's PHNX Awards and the prestigious AICP Awards, twice. Darren and They have consistently been listed in the top ten production companies / producer at the Loerie Awards for numerous years. Darren was recently elected to sit on the Exco of the Commercial Producers Association of South Africa (CPASA). Darren is a walking talking encyclopaedia of movies and music and together with his production prowess is a formidable filmmaker.

Starting in 2007, Lebo has worked her way up every step of the production ladder.Having trained under some of the strongest producers in the industry, she has an invaluable wealth of knowledge and skill which she brings to every job… along with a whole lot of heart. She is proud and excited to share her experience with, and learn from, the other leaders on CPA Executive Committee.

I come from diverse backgrounds and have vast experience in the world of advertising and production. I believe in working smart, treating people with respect no matter the background.

Debra is Partner & Head of Production at Groundglass Productions in Cape Town. With a remarkable track record spanning two decades in production, she has collaborated with some of the biggest brands, Directors and Agencies worldwide. Debra studied film at Natal Technikon and began her career in the industry on-set and in the edit suite. After a stint in London she relocated to Cape Town and joined Groundglass in the production department. Her contributions have played a pivotal role in the growth and success of the company. Debra is involved in both Director & Service production work, this gives her a hugely advantageous comprehensive perspective of the industry as a whole. Her unique blend of creative flair & analytical thinking make her invaluable to the productions she is involved in. Debra has been been on various judging panels at international film festivals and currently sits as an EXCO member at the CPA (Commercial Producers Association).

A seasoned producer, Zayd has 21 years of production experience under his belt. He joined Velocity Films in 2005 and quickly climbed the ranks under the tutelage of some of South Africa’s most sort after producers. He partnered with Anton in 2011 and has overseen a multitude of campaigns, content and award-winning spots since then. Together, they launched Patriot Films in 2017. Zayd’s production smarts, work ethic and can-do attitude make him a favourite with both agencies and clients.

A film producer committed to the African narrative, be it for TV commercials, brand films or entertainment purposes. Sabelo's passion is rooted in storytelling, he believes creating the best final product is in the detail, challenging each contributor to stretch further, dig deeper and dream bigger. Close on two decades of experience in the production world, with the past 12 years producing film content and TV commercials for top end directors, photographers, creative directors , agencies and brands in South African advertising. "I've only just risen to the surface of our industry, now that the lid is open for me, it's time to create and produce more by collaborating with the best in brand advertising and filmed content".

Daniel, one of the CPA's longest standing EXCO members brings almost 3 decades worth of production experience and knowledge to any table. Initially learning from the ground up with some of South Africa’s best known directors & production teams, followed by a few years overseas with English, Australian & American production companies. He returned home to South Africa, opening Bioscope films with his long time business partner Hylton, almost 18 years ago. His love of filmmaking and storytelling is only matched by his passion for rugby and puns. Popular with colleagues and crew alike. He is passionate about a healthy & contemporary South African industry.