News Bulletin of 9 September 2025, 6pm

Thapelo “Tabz” Motloung, founder of the Soweto Film Market, is launching The Pitch Room from 25 September to 5 October to support young filmmakers.
The platform lets creatives pitch ideas directly to producers, funders, and distributors, with mentorship from industry leaders like Bongi Ndaba and Busisiwe Ntintili.
The initiative nurtures township talent and prepares participants for the Soweto International Film Festival in November.
Motloung says it bridges the gap between dreamers and decision-makers, helping young filmmakers gain investment, exposure, and real-world experience.
He envisions Soweto as a global hub for African storytelling, where local stories reach platforms like Netflix while building a thriving film industry.

South Africa’s fishing industry will continue exporting fish and fish products to the United States beyond January 2026.
The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration confirmed that South Africa’s regulatory programme for protecting marine mammals is comparable to its own.
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, said the decision secures critical market access and reinforces South Africa’s role as a responsible fishing nation.
The determination follows a detailed review of South Africa’s management measures, with industry cooperation playing a key role.
The department is also reviewing the Marine Living Resources Act to ensure sustainable, modern, and globally competitive fisheries.

In southwest China’s Guizhou province, a group of tourists risked their lives to save a boy trapped in a fast-flowing creek.
The child lost his footing and became stuck between two large stones, with only his head above the water.
When ropes failed, one of the strongest rescuers waded into the river and formed a human wall, slowing the current enough for others to act.
Rescuer Xiao Feng climbed down slippery rocks and, after three attempts, managed to free the boy, who was caught safely by another helper in the pool below.
The daring rescue has gone viral on Chinese social media, with many praising the bravery and selflessness of the rescuers, calling them “uncles” for their protective care.