Four AFDA alumni filmmakers have earned prestigious selections to screen their short films in competition at the 47th Durban International Film Festival (DIFF), taking place from 23 July to 2 August 2026.
Presented by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, the Durban International Film Festival remains one of the most respected cinematic platforms on the African continent. Founded in 1979, DIFF is recognised as Southern Africa’s oldest and largest film festival and is officially Academy Award® qualifying in the Best Short Film category.
This year’s short film competition programme features 24 films from around the world competing for the coveted Best Short Film Award and Best South African Short Film Award. Among the selected South African films are four works directed by AFDA alumni:
• Fracture – directed by Alex Fynn
• Perception – directed by Miselwa “Missy” Ngamlana
• Runner – directed by Mmathabo Johanna Bopape
• The Break-In – directed by Sizwe Kubeka
• Perception – directed by Miselwa “Missy” Ngamlana
• Runner – directed by Mmathabo Johanna Bopape
• The Break-In – directed by Sizwe Kubeka
The selection of these four films highlights the continued impact of AFDA graduates within the local and international film industry, showcasing emerging voices that are pushing creative boundaries through bold storytelling and innovative filmmaking.
According to DIFF Festival Manager Sakhile Gumede, this year’s short film line-up represents “an extraordinary global dialogue”, bringing together deeply personal stories, cultural perspectives and narratives of resilience from filmmakers across the world. The festival places a strong emphasis on risk-taking, originality and authentic storytelling — qualities that continue to define AFDA alumni productions.
Being selected for the official DIFF short film competition is a significant achievement in itself. As an Oscar-qualifying festival, winning the Best Short Film Award at DIFF provides filmmakers with eligibility to submit their work for Academy Award consideration, creating an important pathway toward global recognition and career advancement.
The inclusion of four AFDA alumni films in this year’s programme reflects AFDA’s ongoing commitment to developing industry-ready filmmakers and nurturing distinctive creative voices capable of competing on major international platforms.
The 47th Durban International Film Festival runs from 23 July to 2 August 2026 and will showcase over 100 films from South Africa and around the globe, continuing its long-standing legacy of celebrating contemporary African and international cinema.