Event: Bev Ditsie Retrospective and Fundraiser

Bev Ditsie, one of South Africa’s most influential queer Black feminist voices in television and film, is being celebrated in Johannesburg this April.

The Bev Ditsie Retrospective: A Black Queer Feminist Journey through 40 Years of TV & Film takes place on Thursday, 17 April 2025, at 18:00 at ATLAS Studios.

A Trailblazer in Media and Activism

Bev Ditsie’s career began in 1980 when, at just nine years old, they became South Africa’s first Black androgynous child star—an act of quiet defiance in an apartheid-era media landscape. Over four decades, Bev has carved out an iconic career as a filmmaker, television director, and activist, consistently pushing the boundaries between art and advocacy.

Recognized globally for their contributions, Bev was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Claremont Graduate University in 2019. Despite their extensive career, much of Bev’s legacy is framed solely through their activism, often overshadowing their immense impact on television and film. This retrospective aims to change that by highlighting the profound influence their work has had on media representation and storytelling.

What to Expect

This event will feature a carefully curated selection of Bev’s most significant projects in TV and film, offering a rare opportunity to delve into their journey through visual storytelling.

Moderated by the inimitable Lebogang Mashile—a poet, playwright, recording artist, actress, and activist—the retrospective promises insightful discussions, personal reflections, and a deep dive into Bev’s unparalleled contributions to South African media.

A Fundraiser for a Personal Cause

Beyond being a celebration, this event also serves as a fundraiser for Bev’s upcoming surgical procedure, scheduled for the end of April 2025. Your attendance and support will directly contribute to ensuring they receive the necessary medical care.

For more details on the fundraiser and to contribute, visit the BackaBuddy page here.

Get Your Tickets

Don’t miss this incredible evening of film, conversation, and solidarity. Secure your ticket now via Quicket.