Carbon Films has announced the signing of rising director Koketso Matabane to their roster. With a sharp eye for clever, idea-driven work and a knack for storytelling shaped by five years in the Joburg creative and film scene, Koketso is already making her mark. She recently directed a campaign for MTN which among her other work caught the eye of Carbon Films, which she now calls home.

“Koketso makes the kind of work we love at Carbon – clever, insightful work with a real voice,” says Carbon’s EP Kirsten Clarence. “She has an innate sensibility for understanding creative ideas and their value, which comes from her background in research. It’s not about grabbing a camera and shooting something cool. It’s about crafting something that stands out because it’s smart and insightful.”

Director Bruno Bossi echoes this, “Koketso isn’t just Gen Z or relatable. She has longevity because her work isn’t copy-and-paste, it’s distinct and opinionated. That, combined with her incredible attitude is what stands out in advertising.”

Koketso’s background in research and hands-on filmmaking experience has given her a holistic understanding of both creative and technical filmmaking. After graduating from film school, she spent five years at a leading production house, working in every aspect of the filmmaking process – as a researcher, B-unit director, and assistant to some of South Africa’s top directors. Slowly but surely, Koketso began taking her seat in the director’s chair, honing her ability to craft smart, idea-driven work, including directing her latest campaign for MTN, before joining Carbon Films

Koketso’s fashion film S.W.A.N.K Jozi – An Origin Short Story is shortlisted at the London Fashion Film Festival and earned 2nd place for “Best Child Star” and 3rd place in the “Emerging Creative” category. The short film also received a nomination at the 12th Anniversary Edition of the Berlin Fashion Film Festival in the “Athletics & Sport” category, competing with names like Nike, Adidas, NFL, and Harper’s Bazaar.  

Her latest short film titled ‘Untitled Skates’, explores young black female skating culture and is currently on the film festival circuit (which is sadly why we can’t feature it, so keep an eye out for that).

Koketso believes Carbon is the perfect fit for her next chapter, “I think Carbon understands the future of advertising. They’re not just about making things look good, they support directors in creating clever, impactful work.”

Wanna (s)talk some more? Carbon Films on IDIDTHAT and Company Website.