Xolelwa Nhlabatsi
Director of commercials, films & series
As a kid, my dreams took me to the helm of the Starship Enterprise, navigating the cosmos. From there, my aspirations led me to wield a lightsaber as a Jedi, master the suave sophistication of James Bond and embrace the shadows as the iconic Batman.
While reality may not always align with fantasies, the magic of filmmaking has become my portal to these worlds. It's the beauty of storytelling that allows me to embody these diverse roles and brings the cherished dreams of my younger self to life.
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of
working with renowned international brands such as
the BBC, Brand South Africa, Woolworths, Rémy Martin,
E! Entertainment and Chicken Licken.
Notably, I recently directed the second season of
E! Entertainment's VIP, offering an in-depth exploration of
African celebrities. This season featured notable stars such as
Yemi Alade,Fireboy DML, Nasty C & paid tribute to the
late Riky Rick.
My debut short film, "Lost in the World," garnered international recognition by being nominated for Best Short Film at Film Africa in London. Additionally, it was selected to screen at prestigious festivals such as the Thessaloniki LGBTQ Festival in Greece, the Baltimore International Black Film Festival
and the London Short Film Festival.
My work has been featured in renowned publications including Rolling Stone, Elle, Okay Africa and ID-Vice. Notably, ID-Vice named my film "The Best of the Night" in the New Queer Visions segment at the London Short Film Festival, further validating my talent and storytelling approach.
Branded content
Client: Brand South Africa
Agency: The Strategy Network SA
Triple Story Production
Client: Woolworths
Agency: Woolworths
Rumanya Films Production
Client: Brand South Africa
Agency: The Strategy Network SA
Triple Story Production
Client: We Are Bizarre
Agency: We Are Bizarre
Blackweather Production
E! VIP season 2
Series 2023
A deep dive that showcases
the lives of Africa’s celebrities.
films & series
nefarious creatures
Short film 2022
Braam
web series 2020
What happens when a valuable
suitcase goes missing?
A man must come to terms with being dumped on the day of his girlfriend’s birthday.
lost in the world
short film 2015
A police officer is out to avenge
the death of her girlfriend.