WE SIMPLY CANNOT BE A GENERATION OF GATEKEEPERS....!

Gatekeeping has never made sense to me. I understand that the South African film and television industry is built in a way that makes finding an open door feel nearly impossible. But this scarcity mindset, where a few cling tightly to information and opportunities, is the downfall of this entire industry. The fact is, an overflow of information almost always leads to an overflow of opportunity, and yet, many refuse to share the most basic access point information that could help others get a foot in the door.

So, what does it really mean to "open up the industry" when many of the people demanding change are the same ones responsible for keeping it closed? It’s a vicious cycle, and the irony is glaring. There’s no shortage of room in the South African film and television space—there’s actually an abundance of untapped potential, creativity, and talent waiting to be discovered. However, the landscape is dominated by a select few with not enough information and support going around.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

The scarcity mindset convinces people that sharing information means losing something. But in reality, when we share resources, access points, and knowledge, we all benefit. If we want to see true growth, we need to let go of the fear that there won’t be enough to go around. It’s simply not true. The more we open the doors, the more the industry will thrive.

Here’s some simple steps on how we could start tackling this issue in our own individual capacities:

Step 1: Recognize the harm of gatekeeping

Gatekeeping limits not just individuals, but the industry as a whole. By holding onto opportunities or information, gatekeepers are narrowing the pool of talent, innovation, and creative ideas. This stagnation is harmful to the long-term health of the industry. Recognize that by being inclusive and sharing information, you are building a stronger ecosystem that benefits everyone.

Step 2: Share access point information

It’s not enough to talk about inclusivity and opportunity; it has to be practised. Share access point information that others may not know. Whether it’s how to pitch to a production house, which industry bodies to engage with, or even recommendations for crew members, opening up these gates empowers others. A thriving industry is one where people help each other succeed.

Step 3: Collaborate, Don’t compete

We often see the same faces and companies dominating the space, but collaboration is key to breaking the cycle. By working together, production companies, writers, and filmmakers can create innovative content that challenges the status quo. No one entity should "own" an industry. A healthy industry is one where different creators bring diverse stories to life.

Step 4: Build a sustainable future

Gatekeeping is short-term thinking. If the industry is to survive and grow, we need to think long-term. Sustainable growth requires the inclusion of diverse voices, new stories, and fresh perspectives. By keeping the doors closed, we’re limiting what South African film and television can be. Opening them means more opportunities, more innovation, and a richer cultural tapestry.

In South Africa, there’s so much untapped potential. We aren’t even close to having a truly diverse and dynamic range of crews, stories, and productions. If we keep allowing gatekeeping to dominate, we will never realise the full potential of this industry.

Imagine an industry where everyone has access to the information and tools they need to succeed. An industry where collaboration leads to better stories and more opportunities for everyone involved. That’s the industry we should be building—not one with gates, but one with open doors.

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