Lillian Dube’s role in these drama series played a major role in influencing her social activism . Lillian’s role in the series was one of a social activist and that translated into her real life role of partnering with CANSA to promote breast cancer awareness after her own health scare with the disease.
She is one of the most outstanding and distinguished actresses in the country. She’s been in the entertainment industry for more than 20 years and has appeared in television, films and theatre. Lillian has been honoured with numerous other awards. Her other television appearances include, Generations and Mponeng.
The Soul City Institute productions garnered six nominations in this year’s SAFTAS and won for best actor - Vusi Kunene won for his role as Tifo in Soul City series 10 and he also got a special mention acknowledgement at the ceremony. In line with Soul City Institute’s edutainment focus, the storyline of Soul City Series 10 illustrated the disastrous effects of alcohol abuse and violence. This series formed part of PhuzaWize, Soul City Institute’s campaign to encourage a healthier drinking culture in South Africa.
The best actor award was a surprise announcement last night.
Rory O’ Grady won best cinematographer, for Umtshato (the Wedding), the South African production from Love - Stories in a time of HIV & AIDS. Umtshato formed part of OneLove, the largest cross border HIV prevention campaign in the region which is tackling the issue of multiple concurrent partners. OneLove challenges people to think differently about their sexual lives and to consider actions that put them at risk.
John Molefe, senior executive at the Soul City Institute explains, “We congratulate all the 2011 SAFTA winners. It is a significant achievement that both of our flagship series have been recognised. It confirms our position as market leaders in social and behaviour change communication. These series which were researched extensively have had a tremendous impact both in South Africa and in the Southern African region. Both series focused on different Soul City Institute led campaigns – Phuza Wize - Drink Safe, Live Safe and OneLove.”
The Soul City Institute is a significant training and development ground for television and production talent in South African and across Africa. ENDS
For further information or photographs of Lilian Dube or Vusi Kunene, please contact Michelle K Blumenau, Onyx Marketing Communications, T 011 728 5004 / 083 273 9891 / michelle@turquoisepr.co.za or Georgina Lefifi on 011 315 6001 / 082 908 2555 / georgina@onyxmarketing.co.za