Trailblazing Africa's Entertainment Frontier with Pepsi Pokane

Dear Silverbacks Community,

IN THE VALLEY welcomes you this week to an electrifying edition which builds on last weeks’ special edition - which we had titled Africa Media Renaissance: Exploring the Interplay with Entertainment . In celebration of the 2024 Cannes Festival and the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA), we delve deep into the pulse of Africa's film and entertainment industry. The number of film nominated for awards, the size of African delegations and pavilions is growing at a phenomenal pace at most international film festivals. We could not resist the urge to journey into the captivating world of film and television with none other than Pepsi Pokane , the visionary co-owner of Afrika Films & Stained Glass TV. His combined platforms have long been responsible for the largest volume of producing hours of filming across the continent.

In the episode, the legendary South African film and entertainment mogul provides rich insights into the evolution of the African entertainment industry, particularly focusing on film and TV production. He shares his outlook into the success stories of African filmmakers and emphasizes the growing interest from international platforms like Netflix, Canal+ and Comcast.

This discussion aligns with Africa's Creative Economy era, which has witnessed an unstoppable rise in African cinematic content, fueled by a remarkable 12.8% growth in 2023 alone. Initiatives such as the HEVA Fund in Kenya, Bank of Industries (BOI) in Nigeria and the recently announced Afreximbank's $1B film fund are paving the way for a vibrant tapestry of stories and cultures to converge on screen, acknowledging Africa's burgeoning film industry and providing crucial financing and support to filmmakers.

Moreover, Africa's youth, estimated to account for 42% of the world's youth by 2030 , are shaping tomorrow's narrative, demanding stories that reflect their experiences and aspirations. In this dynamic landscape, Pepsi Pokane's creations stand out as exemplars of cultural resonance and relevance.

Reaching far and wide

From his modest beginnings with a television debut at just 14, Pepsi Pokane's journey to becoming a titan in the entertainment industry is a testament to his unwavering determination and limitless creativity. Navigating through the highs and lows of his career, including unexpected setbacks and academic pursuits in the United States, Pepsi's path eventually led him to discover his true passion for media production. Graduating with a degree in International Business from Howard University (Washington D.C), Pepsi embarked on various creative ventures that would ultimately redefine storytelling across multiple platforms. As a versatile leader, he effortlessly commands both boardrooms and stages, captivating audiences with his profound insight, magnetic charisma, and unwavering dedication to the arts.

Pepsi passionately emphasizes the importance of nurturing Africa's entertainment industry by championing the development of local talent and expertise. Through his involvement in international productions in South Africa, Pepsi has not only facilitated skill enhancement and training but also played a pivotal role in establishing influential companies such as Banner Vision , thereby raising the standard of local film and television. His strategic investments in studio infrastructure, talent cultivation, and aggressive marketing, coupled with key international partnerships, have transformed cities like Durban and Cape Town into global filming destinations, rivaling iconic locations such as Mumbai, the UK, and even LA & Miami. Additionally, Pepsi advocates for exploring emerging markets like Ghana and Mauritius for future filming opportunities, further cementing Africa's position as a powerhouse in the global entertainment landscape.

Embracing change: Creating trailblazing impact

In the film sector, Pepsi Pokane's influence is far-reaching and impactful. He produced the longest-running live music TV show on South African TV, winning multiple SAFTA (South African Film and Television Awards) awards, and launching enduring non-scripted formats like I Blew It and Making Moves.

He occupies key positions such as sitting on the Executive Committee of the IPO (Independent Producers Organization ) and serving as the founding director of IFSSA (International Film Services South Africa ). Additionally, his role extends to high-level committees like President Cyril Ramaphosa's PPGI Committee (Public Private Growth Initiative ). Furthermore, he chairs the Creative Sector in both the eThekwini Mayor's Business Advisory Council and the Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry , solidifying his position as a leader shaping the industry.

Pioneering productions: Stained Glass TV

In 2015, Pepsi co-founded Stained Glass TV, which has since emerged as South Africa's foremost production company, leading the industry in revenue and content output. With operational hubs in Durban and Johannesburg, and an additional presence in Los Angeles, Stained Glass TV is a powerhouse in African film and television production. Notably, the company solidified its global footprint through a partnership with Netflix (joining hands in its commitment to investing >R900M in the production of local programs) in September 2023, further expanding its reach and influence.

SABC’s expensive hit Uzalo , the South African soap opera, achieved a staggering 11.4 million viewers per episode , while The Wife Seasons 1-3 broke Showmax's four-day viewing record, captivating audiences worldwide.

o?? The Wife season 2 (February 2022) broke its first season’s record for the most first-day views on Showmax with three times as many viewers.

· In January 2021, eHostela toppled The Queen as DStv's second most-watched show and drew an impressive rating of 1.76-million viewers

·?Durban Gen , e.tv 's latest prime time drama , reached two million viewers in November 2020

·?lfalakhe is South Africa’s version of famous 'Game of Thrones' series

Elevating excellence: Film Afrika Entertainment

In 2019, Pepsi Pokane joined Film Afrika Entertainment as a shareholder and executive director. With a remarkable legacy spanning 25 years, Film Afrika is renowned for its ability to curate top-tier talent and expertise. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including production management, legal advisory, corporate governance, and financial oversight. Notably, Film Afrika is celebrated for its unwavering commitment to diversity and sustainability, setting industry standards while championing inclusivity and environmental stewardship in African filmmaking.

Pepsi, along with his businesses, has played an instrumental role in shaping and expanding the African entertainment market, elevating narratives on a global scale. Through his leadership roles in film organizations and presidential committees, he drives innovation in African cinema, fostering growth and cross-cultural exchange, thereby positioning himself as a key figure in shaping the future of the African film and entertainment industry.

Stay tuned and engaged

Be part of the conversation and journey with IN THE VALLEY where we champion a variety of voices and embrace Africa's vibrant essence across sports, tech, media, entertainment, and the Creative Economy at large. Join the movement and gain insights from the trailblazers shaping tomorrow's world today!

And please make sure you go on NETFLIX to catch Postcards, our recent investment in the film space. It is already #1 in Nigeria and Top 10 in the UK and UAE!

We have more surprises for you soon!

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