Word Of Mouth Pictures has surprised veteran actor, author, director and playwright, Dr. John Kani with the inaugural Golden Elephant Lifetime Achievement Award 2020 (#GELAA2020) during a ceremony hosted by Word Of Mouth Pictures in conjunction with Duma Ndlovu Academy (DNA) at Joburg Theatre today.
The Golden Elephant Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to those who have made a lasting impact in the creative industry. The award was conferred to Kani as the first recipient for his extraordinary roles since the beginning of his career in the 60s.
With a career spanning over four decades, Dr. Kani has appeared in international films including Black Panther, The Lion King and Murder Mystery among others. These films and his other work have fetched a number of awards for him including a SAFTA Lifetime award, Avanti Hall of Fame award, an M-Net Plum award and a Clio award among other accolades.
Executive director and founder at Word of Mouth Pictures, Dr. Duma Ndlovu, said it is a joy and an honour to present Kani with the first Golden Elephant Achievement Award and the recognition is for his work and his achievements in the Theatre and Film industry over the years. Ndlovu said for decades Dr. Kani has captivated audiences with rich talent that has inspired many all over the world.
“Dr. John Kani’s contribution to the film industry is unmatched. He has always been a role model for the creative arts. He is popular not only in the local film industry but also in Hollywood. He has brought to life some of the most memorable characters,” he added.
Word of Mouth Pictures Chief Executive Officer, Mandla KaNozulu said the accolade is awarded to individuals considered to have made extraordinary contributions and impact in the creative industry. He said the idea of the award is to keep the creative industry alive.
” With this award we aim at honouring the veterans of the creative industry who have made a big mark. It is therefore fitting that we launch this award by honouring Dr. John Kani. He has fostered the finest ideals of the acting profession.
He is one of the country’s most respected, prolific, and versatile film talents of our times; his career spans four decades and he is an erudite actor who wears multiple achievements with dignity,” said KaNozulu.
DID YOU KNOW?
- Golden Elephant Lifetime Achievement Awards will officially be launched next year.
- These awards will honour not only South Africans but also international talent which has played an important role in shaping Africa’s craft for at least more than two decades.
- The awards honour excellent achievements in the global arts.
INFO SUPPLIED BY KWATHOLE CONEXION ON BEHALF OF Word Of Mouth Pictures 2020
