Karabo Mokoena
Writer | Producer | Director
Johannesburg
Summary
Karabo Mokoena is an Honors Graduate. She graduated from the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa with an Honors Degree in Film and Television of which she majored in Screenwriting, Directing and did a research project in exploration of South African fiction forms.
She has taken on different production roles like: Writer, Director, Script-Supervisor, Executive Producer as well as Film Curator for the Africa Rising International Film Festival to name a few. Her passion for writing has led her into a range of different mediums in Blog writing, Copy writing, Content writing and short story writing.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Director
Yellow Rose Productions
2024.01 - 2024.03
- Conceptualized, wrote and pitched the campaign project for ILLOVO
- Directed the campaign project with thorough feedback to and from the client
- Collaborated closely with the cinematographer, art director, make-up & wardrobe to develop and refine the creative concept, ensuring alignment with project objectives and target audience.
- Led casting sessions to select actors, providing guidance and feedback to ensure performances align with the vision of the project.
- Oversaw all aspects of production, from pre-production planning and scheduling to on-set direction and post-production editing, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Maintained a collaborative and positive working environment, fostering creativity and innovation among team members.
- Stayed current with industry trends and technologies, incorporating innovative techniques to enhance the visual impact and storytelling of the project.
Film Producer
Yellow Rose Productions
2024.02 - 2024.03
- Led the development and execution of the ILLOVO project, including ffrom inception to completion, ensuring alignment with project objectives and target audience.
- Collaborated closely with directors, writers, and other key creative personnel to develop and refine project concepts, scripts, and production plans, maintaining a strong focus on storytelling and logistical items.
- Created and managed production budgets, overseeing cost control measures and resource allocation to optimize efficiency and minimize financial risk.
- Negotiated contracts with cast, crew, vendors, and distributors, ensuring favorable terms and agreements that align with project goals and budget constraints.
- Coordinated logistics and supervised all aspects of production, including casting, location scouting, scheduling, and on-set operations, to ensure smooth and successful project execution.
Script Writer
Yellow Rose Productions
2022.09 - 2023.02
- Developed an original concept and adapted existing source material into compelling the script for the short film
- Collaborated closely with the creative team, and to develop and refine scripts, ensuring alignment with project goals, target audience, and budget constraints.
- Conducted thorough research to ensure accuracy and authenticity in scriptwriting, incorporating relevant themes, settings, and character development to enhance storytelling.
- Receptive to feedback and constructive criticism, I am committed to continuous improvement and refinement of scripts through multiple drafts and revisions.
Copy and Content Writer
Courtney L Sanders Training International
2023.10 - Current
- Developed and executed content strategies to support marketing and branding initiatives, crafting compelling copy for website content, blog posts, email newsletters, social media campaigns, advertising materials, and other marketing collateral.
- Produced engaging and shareable social media content, leveraging storytelling, visuals, and interactive elements to foster community engagement and promote brand advocacy.
Content Writer
Actor Spaces
2022.07 - 2023.09
- Produced high-quality content for various digital platforms, including articles, blog posts, website copy, social media content, email newsletters, and more.
- Conducted thorough research on industry trends, topics, and keywords to inform content strategy and optimize content for SEO.
- Collaborated with marketing teams, graphic designers, and other stakeholders to develop content calendars, brainstorm ideas, and ensure brand consistency across all communications.
- Demonstrated versatility in writing for different target audiences, industries, and tones, adapting style and voice to align with client preferences and project objectives.
- Reviewed and edited content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and adherence to brand guidelines, making revisions as necessary to meet client feedback and expectations.
- Stayed updated with industry best practices, emerging trends, and algorithm changes to continuously improve content quality and effectiveness.
Casting Coordinator
Actor Spaces
2022.07 - 2023.09
- Managed all aspects of the casting process for film, television, and commercial projects, from talent scouting and audition scheduling to contract negotiation and talent coordination.
- Worked closely with directors, producers, and casting directors to understand project requirements and casting specifications, providing input and recommendations to ensure the right talent is selected for each role.
- Utilized casting databases, talent agencies, and industry connections to source and recruit actors, ensuring a diverse and inclusive pool of talent that reflects the vision and objectives of the project.
- Coordinated audition logistics, including scheduling, venue booking, script distribution, and communication with talent agents and actors, to facilitate smooth and efficient casting sessions.
- Conducted auditions and screen tests, providing feedback and guidance to actors, and facilitating callback sessions to finalize casting decisions.
- Negotiated contracts and terms with talent agents and actors, ensuring compliance with industry standards, union regulations, and project budget constraints.
Film Programmer
Africa Rising International Film Festival
2022.11 - 2023.12
- Developed and implemented film programs for the festival, curating diverse selections of feature films, documentaries, shorts, and retrospectives that appeal to a wide range of audiences.
- Established and maintained relationships with filmmakers, distributors, sales agents, and industry professionals to secure film screenings, negotiate screening rights, and facilitate filmmaker participation in Q&A sessions and panel discussions.
- Conducted market research and trend analysis to identify emerging filmmakers, new releases, and thematic trends, informing programming decisions and ensuring relevance and freshness in film selections.
- Collaborated with marketing and publicity teams to promote film programs, utilizing social media, email newsletters, press releases, and other channels to engage audiences and drive attendance.
- Managed budgeting and financial planning for film programs, including screening fees, venue rentals, marketing expenses, and guest travel arrangements, ensuring cost-effective programming and financial sustainability.
- Oversaw logistical aspects of film screenings and events, including scheduling, venue coordination, technical support, and audience management, to ensure smooth and successful execution of programs.
Script Supervisor
Seriti Films
2022.02 - 2022.07
- Ensured continuity and script adherence across multiple episode of Gomora, meticulously tracking character appearances, wardrobe, props, set dressing, and other visual elements to maintain consistency throughout the series.
- Worked closely with directors, writers, and production teams to review scripts, identify potential continuity issues, and suggest solutions to maintain narrative coherence and visual continuity.
- Collaborated with assistant directors, camera operators, and other crew members during rehearsals and filming, providing real-time feedback and guidance to ensure adherence to established continuity guidelines.
- Compiled detailed script notes, continuity logs, and camera reports for each scene, documenting deviations from the script and providing valuable reference materials for editors and post-production teams.
- Facilitated communication between departments to address continuity concerns and coordinate adjustments as needed, fostering a collaborative and efficient working environment on set.
- Stayed abreast of telenovela conventions, industry standards, and emerging trends in script supervision, incorporating best practices to enhance the quality and consistency of the production.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Film And Television
University of Witwatersrand
Johannesburg, South Africa 2017.01 - 2020.01
Skills
Directing
undefinedContact
Karabomokoena76@gmail.com
063 516 3342
References
- Tracey-Lee Rainers, tracey-lee@storyoasis.co.za
- Ayanda Sithebe, ayanda@actorspaces.co.za
- Karabelo Shirinde, karabeloshirinde@gmail.com
Accomplishments
1. As a Producer and Screenwriter, I was selected to participate in the prestigious Durban Film Mart Access Program in 2024, an exclusive opportunity for emerging talents in the film industry. During the program, I had the privilege of developing my original series concept through intensive one-on-one sessions with a qualified story editor mentor.
Key Achievements:
- Selection for Durban Film Mart Access Program: Being chosen to participate in the Durban Film Mart Access Program is a testament to my talent and potential as a filmmaker. This competitive program provided me with access to invaluable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to further my career in the industry.
- Series Concept Development: Through the program, I had the opportunity to refine and develop my series concept under the guidance of an experienced story editor mentor. Utilizing their expertise and feedback, I honed my storytelling skills and enhanced the creative vision for my project.
- One-on-One Mentorship: The personalized mentorship provided during the Durban Film Mart Access Program was instrumental in my growth as both a producer and screenwriter. The individualized guidance and constructive critique I received helped me navigate challenges, clarify my goals, and elevate the quality of my work.
- Professional Growth and Networking: Engaging with industry professionals and fellow participants during the program enriched my understanding of the filmmaking process and expanded my network within the industry. This experience not only enhanced my project development but also opened doors to future collaborations and opportunities.
Participating in the Durban Film Mart Access Program was a transformative experience that has significantly contributed to my development as a filmmaker. It has equipped me with the skills, insights, and connections necessary to thrive in the dynamic and competitive landscape of the film industry.
2. As a creative entrepreneur, I was honored to be selected for the prestigious Business & Arts South Africa (BASA) Debut Programme. This esteemed initiative provides emerging leaders in the creative sector with invaluable support, mentorship, and resources to develop and grow their innovative ventures.
Key Achievements:
- Selection for BASA Debut Programme: Being chosen as a participant in the BASA Debut Programme is a testament to the viability and potential of my creative business project. This competitive program recognizes promising entrepreneurs and offers them access to specialized training, industry insights, and networking opportunities.
- Strategic Business Development: Throughout the duration of the program, I engaged in strategic planning sessions, workshops, and mentorship sessions tailored to the needs of creative enterprises. These experiences enabled me to refine my business model, strengthen my organizational strategy, and identify growth opportunities for my project.
3. I am the Founder of Life in Stories which is a platform that caters specifically to children's stories, told with a South African context and with South African characters. The stories are fun, imaginative and share very valuable lessons at the end of each of them.
Timeline
Film Producer
Yellow Rose Productions
2024.02 - 2024.03
Director
Yellow Rose Productions
2024.01 - 2024.03
Copy and Content Writer
Courtney L Sanders Training International
2023.10 - Current
Film Programmer
Africa Rising International Film Festival
2022.11 - 2023.12
Script Writer
Yellow Rose Productions
2022.09 - 2023.02
Content Writer
Actor Spaces
2022.07 - 2023.09
Casting Coordinator
Actor Spaces
2022.07 - 2023.09
Script Supervisor
Seriti Films
2022.02 - 2022.07
Bachelor of Arts - Film And Television
University of Witwatersrand
2017.01 - 2020.01
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