AT 22, a local filmmaker Luyanda Mali is turning his passion for filmmaking into a business venture, launching Perfomix Squad Media Production in Forest Hill, Johannesburg, on November 8 to create opportunities and develop African stories.
Originally from Mpaka, Mali moved to Johannesburg in 2023 after securing an opportunity to study acting part-time at the Market Theatre Laboratory.
The experience exposed him to a wider creative industry and inspired him to move beyond acting into filmmaking and producing original content.
Founded on February 17 this year, Perfomix Squad aims to bring together film, drama, music, dance, live performances and content creation while creating opportunities for emerging talent.
Mali said his passion for storytelling and the need for equal access to opportunities inspired him to establish the company. “I did not want to limit myself to performing in other people’s productions. I wanted to develop my stories, direct films and create opportunities for other creatives,” he explained.
The production house will work alongside South African co-executives Tokollo Mmako, Itumeleng Molemi and Makabongwe Mnguni.
Award-winning South African actress, singer and producer Didintle Khunou will also join the team as a producer.
Khunou is known for playing Celie in the first South African production of The Color Purple Musical at Joburg Theatre in 2018.
Her performance earned her theatre awards, while her screen credits include Isono, The Throne and Soon Comes Night.
Mali’s working relationship with Khunou began with a meeting at Atlas Studios in Milpark, Johannesburg, in August last year, during a documentary screening.
Their conversation included the possibility of working together, although neither knew they would later collaborate professionally.
In a press release that was shared through this publication, Khunou expressed excitement about joining the project and supporting its creative direction. “I am excited to be part of this journey and contribute to a vision that promotes African storytelling, creativity and collaboration,” she said.
The company is currently self-funded and seeking investors, sponsors and strategic partners to support its growth. Mali explained that additional funding would help improve production quality, secure equipment and resources, and create more opportunities for creatives.
Its plans include developing original productions, building brand partnerships and establishing a sustainable independent company capable of reaching audiences across Africa and beyond.
Mali said Johannesburg offered access to opportunities in film, television, theatre and digital entertainment, but his ambitions extended beyond South Africa.
He hopes to contribute to African storytelling while representing the experiences and cultures of communities across the continent.
The production house is inviting actors, writers, directors, dancers, musicians, editors, cinematographers and other creative professionals to express interest in joining its network.
Applicants can introduce themselves, outline their skills and submit portfolios or examples of previous work where available.
Mali said the company values creativity, discipline, teamwork and willingness to learn, although participation will depend on project requirements and available resources. For Mali its slogan, Turning what was that?! into RUN IT AGAIN!, reflects its commitment to bold ideas, memorable performances and original storytelling.
