SABC’S new head of local productions wants black women to tell their stories

AS WE continue to commemorate Women’s Month, we salute the heroes of 1956, the mothers, aunties, sisters and daughters who took to the streets to fight for the freedom we all enjoy.

No stranger to the film and television industry, Lala Tuku, pictured, has been newly appointed as head of local productions at the SABC.

“I started on June 6 and it’s just been an incredible journey,” said Tuku.

“They say change is as good as a holiday, but sometimes, change, when you’re a creature of habit, can shock you. But from a career point of view, it was my next. I’m taking this role as my big next, and I’m really looking forward to what I can do with it.”

Tuku’s new role comes with big responsibilities, coupled with challenges she’s ready to tackle head-on.

“This is a big portfolio and I’m excited about it. The SABC remains a very important entity and the voice of the people. It also has a mandate to

elevate by telling compelling, informative and entertaining stories. And mine is to go out there and be a mirror to society by telling those culturally conscious content and pieces, and finding them is what I intend to do.”

Tuku is a seasoned professional in the creative arts sector, communication, and marketing industry. Her passion and experience in the arts span two decades.

“When you have such a wellrounded, 360o view of the industry, it places you quite favourably in the position. I started as an actress and then moved to become a director.

“I later become a marketer in the film space…then a researcher and a funder for films at the National Film & Video Foundation (NFVF). I moved to creating and producing content. And now I get to inform the national broadcaster in terms of local content.”

Known for her women and youth advocacy, Tuku is determined to use her position to effect change at the public broadcaster.

“Black people don’t participate in key areas in our industry. Women don’t participate in key areas. I’ve always wanted to be an agent of change, making sure we give women and young people opportunities. And I think in this role, I’m part of making sure that happens.”