Celebrating Excellence in Conservation and Tourism Films
In a remarkable achievement, Babanango Game Reserve and Love Africa Marketing recently garnered significant recognition at the International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) recently held in Sandton, Johannesburg.
This prestigious event, which received submissions from 61 countries and was attended by over 140 industry professionals, celebrated the best in tourism and conservation storytelling.
The winners were selected by a panel of 46 jury members, equally representing the film and digital creation industries and the tourism sector. The films were judged on seven key criteria: impact, creativity, sound, style, subject matter, storytelling, and goal effectiveness, with scores out of 10 awarded to each entry.
It is with great joy and pride that Babanango Game Reserve and Love Africa Marketing won four awards for their impactful films.
This is Home’: Gold in Sustainable Tourism
‘This is Home,’ produced by Love Africa Marketing, received a Gold Award in the Sustainable and Responsible Tourism category. This documentary highlights the efforts to reintroduce the iconic black rhino into Babanango Game Reserve, aligning with the KZN game reserve’s rewilding strategy. Viewers are drawn into the world of dedicated conservationists who work tirelessly to protect and nurture these magnificent animals.
Silvers in Conservation, Historical Culture and Tourism Services
‘Return of the King,’ a film documenting the relocation of lions to Babanango Game Reserve, earned a Silver in the Wildlife and Conservation category. This poignant film celebrates the reintroduction of lions to the area after 150 years.
‘The Battlefields’ won Love Africa and Babanango another silver award, this time in the ‘historical culture’ category. The video offers viewers a glimpse into the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. Babanango Game Reserve lies within the heart of some of the most historical battles fought by the Zulu nation, including the Battle of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Draft.
Meanwhile, ‘Madwaleni River Lodge’ was awarded a Silver in the Tourism – Services category, introducing Babanango Game Reserve’s new ultra-luxury lodge located along the White Umfolozi River. The film beautifully portrays the dedication to restoring wildlife populations and preserving natural habitats.
The coveted ITFFA Festival Directors Award was presented to Nicola Gerrard of Love Africa Marketing, acknowledging her exceptional contributions to filmmaking in the Wildlife, Conservation, and Tourism categories. Nicola emphasised the pride in showcasing KwaZulu-Natal’s landscapes, people, and wildlife, stating, “These films were created as impactful stories in conservation and tourism in South Africa, and we are very excited that they have received the recognition they deserve on an international platform.”
Looking Ahead
These awards underscore the importance of visual storytelling in promoting conservation and responsible tourism. The recognition received by Babanango Game Reserve and Love Africa Marketing at the ITFFA is a testament to their dedication to preserving natural heritage and fostering an appreciation for South Africa’s wildlife and landscapes.
The combined efforts of the talented film team, including Nicola Gerrard, Janelle Barnard, Sven Musica, Kirsty Baker, Lauren van Nijkerk, Steve Benjamin, Mnqobi Zuma, Thuthukani Makhoba, Leigh de Necker, Thandeka Hlongwa and Devin Trull, have set a high standard for future projects. As these films continue to inspire and educate audiences worldwide, Babanango Game Reserve in the beautiful province of KZN looks forward to continuing its mission of conservation and sustainable tourism.
