Dynamic art group unearths locals’ hidden talent

A lack of money or opportunity can’t keep a passionate artist down. As Lucky Nkambule (31) says, “If art is in your blood you pursue it, no matter your circumstances.”

Together with a group of local artists he started a group called Umjindi Reloaded in 2011. It has been giving drama classes to young actors, assisting musicians and helping poets reach their potential. They meet at Khamhola High School twice a week and are currently training 23 aspiring actors, aged 14 and older.

Without any financial backing, they have managed to produce eight movies – all of them in Barberton. A few months ago a well-known actor of the SABC network, after watching one of these movies, expressed his interest and said he wanted to shoot a movie in Barberton, using local talent.

“Hold on to your hats, because if everything goes according to plan, we will be on SABC before year end.”
This movie, The Father, written by Lucky, will make people take notice of the talent hidden behind the Makhonjwa mountains.

“It is extremely difficult to put such productions together without the proper equipment and props,” he said. Until now they have been blessed as people like Thinus van der Merwe of Snappy Snaps has been extremely helpful, giving them equipment and assisting wherever he could. Peter Owen of the Phoenix Hotel has also offered the hotel’s facilities as a set for some of their movies.

“We are really so grateful for all the help, but are still in dire need of funding.” Umjindi Reloaded Production also managed to get an NPO certificate and requests that businesses and locals please put their weight behind this project. “It needn’t be financial backing only – we will accept anything from make-up to clothes and props. Contact Lucky on 071-276-6401 if you would like to become involved.”

Umjindi Reloaded presents: The Stranger