Tebogo Chologi, known in the entertain- ment industry as "Mrembola", has emerged as a shining star in the film industry. Born in 1988 and raised in the village of Magogoe Tlhabologo in Mahikeng, Chologi's journey into the world of creativity began at a young age. Over the years, he has honed his poetry, pantsula dance, acting skills and writing skills for theatre and film.
His passion for storytelling eventually led him to complete a National Certificate in Film and Television Production, setting the stage for his remarkable career. Before venturing into film production, he showcased his acting talents in various productions, including "Roped," "Never Say Goodbye," "Tlhala Ntša," "Kgaratlho," "Caged," and "Naphtal."
His expertise even led him to judge at the South African Film and Television Awards. Chologi is also recognised as a respected tutor in film-making at various institutions. After completing his qualification, Chologi directed and produced a couple of films, often working with minimal budgets.
Some of his remarkable creations include "Inmate," "Mobocracy," "Ghetto Situations," "Lesedi," "One for the Ghetto," and "The Shack." He also played a significant role in co-producing and co-directing films like "Caged," "A Plight of an Ordinary Man," and "Maletsatsi."
One of Chologi's most notable achievements is "The Shack," a short film shot during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic. The film earned him a slew of prestigious awards and accolades. The thought-provoking film has been screened at numerous national, regional, and international film festivals, leaving audiences captivated and moved.
"The Shack" has garnered awards such as Best Arthouse Film at the Kismet Film Festival (2020, USA), the Best Director Award and Audience Award at the uMgungundlovu Film Festival (2020, RSA), the Standard Bank Gold Ovation Award at the Makhanda National Film Festival (2021, RSA), and the third place Jury Award at the Unified Film Festival (2021, Germany).
The film was also a finalist at the Cannes World Film Festival (2021, France) and received worldwide recognition at several other film festivals. Chologi's dedication to the art of filmmaking and storytelling has not only earned him numerous accolades, but has also inspired aspiring filmmakers and artists. His work can be accessed on his YouTube channel under "Tebogo Chologi" and on Vimeo under "tebogo."
In addition to his filmmaking accomplishments, Chologi has pursued further education, participated in dance, poetry, and acting performances, and served as a facilitator and mentor in the film industry. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming an award-winning filmmaker is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for storytelling.
Chologi's knowledge and experience have made him a respected tutor in filmmaking, influencing aspiring artists at various institutions. "The Shack" tells the story of Buti, who resides in a humble shack in a densely populated South African informal settlement. The film masterfully portrays Buti's daily struggles, particularly during the pandemic.
Buti's hardships include a lack of income, limited access to clean water, poor sanitation, restricted work opportunities, and inadequate access to food. The frustrated shack serves as the narrator, shedding light on the grim reality that Buti and countless others endure. It highlights the stark contrast between the rich and the impoverished, drawing attention to the exploitation of the poor by the wealthy.
The shack's narrative underscores the pressing issues faced by marginalized communities. "The Shack" has received widespread acclaim, numerous awards, and honours at international film festivals. As "The Shack" gains popularity in overseas countries such as Brazil, Chologi's unique storytelling talents are receiving international recognition.
His artistic journey from humble beginnings to becoming an award-winning filmmaker is a testament to his talent, commitment, and passion for sharing compelling narratives with the world.
