DEAR SIKHONKWANE - RED CARPET FILM PREMIERE
The Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation together with Passion Seed Communications hereby invites members of the media to the red carpet premiere of “Dear Sikhonkwane”, a 21-minute personal documentary directed by multi-award-winning South African filmmaker and one of Mpumalanga’s leading contemporary cinematic voices, Sihle Hlophe.The film celebrates the life and legacy of Sikhonkwane Steven Mahlalela — one of the earliest SiSwati authors, a devoted educator and a cultural custodian who had an immeasurable contribution to SiSwati literature, education and language preservation. Having authored, co-authored and edited more than 40 books, Mahlalela played a foundational role in shaping SiSwati as a written language at a time when African languages faced structural marginalisation.
Despite his extraordinary contribution, his name remains unfamiliar to many South Africans. Dear Sikhonkwane is a heartfelt tribute — a love letter to his life, his mother tongue and the community he served with humility and unwavering commitment.
The documentary seeks to restore visibility to one of Mpumalanga’s unsung heroes and to honour a legacy that continues to shape generations. The red carpet premiere promises an evening of reflection, celebration of language and culture, and engagement with the creative team behind the film. The Premiere is scheduled as follows:
Date: 14 February 2026 Venue: Ster Kinekor, Ilanga Mall Time: 13h00