Speaking about the commercial, Sanaa says, ‘It’s a story of someone born into the wildfires of the revolution. A story of radical joy and radical love. A story of Africa through Thandiswa’s gifts and talents, reflecting, healing, and reclaiming one’s roots. It’s about self-discovery and cultural rediscovery. Ultimately, I hope people take away a sense that sometimes the messenger has to become the message.’ 

Sanaa Films, founded by Sanaa with Executive Producer Dumisani Mvumvu, has set a high standard for itself by focusing on originality and honesty in their commercial work. Director Sanaa’s personal connection with musician Thandiswa Mazwai and their shared experiences from growing up in Pimville, Soweto, allowed him to craft a beautifully personal narrative.

‘When Thandiswa announced her album release, I was already gearing up for the type of videos I’d do with her as passion projects. We shared some ideas with her team, and they loved them. In the midst of us trying to find ways to make it work, Spotify came to support the vision and even enhance it. It was such a comforting process to work with Rifumo Mdaka from Spotify, he made the process much easier & his contributions elevated our piece,’ adds Sanaa.