Ntobeko Sishi Represents SA at African Film Festival in the US
OkMzansi | 02.04.2026 23:57
South African actor and singer Ntobeko Sishi recently represented the country at the 2026 African Film Festival in the United States, proudly showcasing a local film to an international audience.
The 19th African Film Festival took place from Friday, 27 March, to Sunday, 29 March, bringing together filmmakers, actors and cinema lovers who celebrate African storytelling and culture.
Sishi travelled to St. Louis, Missouri, where he presented the South African film Uhlanjululo, which is also known by its English title Laundry. The screening was held at Washington University, where the film was introduced to students and festival attendees interested in African cinema.
While attending the event, the actor shared an update with his fans back home in South Africa through an Instagram video. In the clip, Sishi expressed excitement about representing the country and speaking about the film on an international stage.
“I’m back with more news about our original South African story, Uhlanjululo, English titled Laundry. I’m currently in St. Louis, Missouri, and I’ve been invited here to present our film to Washington University at the African Film Festival,” he said.
The actor also spoke proudly about representing South Africa while abroad. “I’m about to go inside and go chat about it, but just wanted to update, you know, the South Africans. We are out here in a different part of the world. No DNA, just RSA, baby.”
Sishi later shared how grateful he felt after seeing the support the film received from the audience. “Another packed-out room. People come to see this film on the big screen. It’s just so humbling. It’s happening. You know, I don’t know what it is, but whatever it is, it’s happening.”
The film was directed by Zamo Mkhwanazi and is set in the 1960s during apartheid. The story follows a young man named Khuthala, who dreams of becoming a musician. However, his life takes a difficult turn when his father faces imprisonment, forcing him to take over the family’s laundry business.
Through Khuthala’s journey, the film explores the challenges that Black families and entrepreneurs faced under the harsh apartheid system, while also highlighting hope, resilience and the power of dreams.
By presenting Uhlanjululo to an international audience, Sishi helped shine a global spotlight on South African storytelling and talent.
Get the latest South African entertainment news, trending stories, and viral updates straight to your WhatsApp.
