IDIDTHAT JUDGE
THINA ZIBI

INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR
SOUTH AFRICA

JUDGE’S BIO

Thina Zibi is a Johannesburg-based film director with a knack for turning human quirks into cinematic charm. She began her career as an art director in leading ad agencies, climbing the ladder to Creative Director before her love for storytelling pulled her behind the camera – and she hasn’t looked back since.

Her short film Bompi was shortlisted at ARIFF 2022 and continues to travel the festival circuit, including PAFF and AFRIFF. Her web series, created through the Black Women Disrupt program, streamed on Kweli TV, while her debut short Bakhona bagged a cinematography award and an art direction nod.

With roots in the Transkei and a life lived between Jo’burg coffee shops and dance floors, Thina brings an eye for detail, an obsession with character, and an instinct for performance.

Her films balance precision with play, depth with humour – always celebrating the beauty and absurdity of being human. Sometimes she runs on coffee and cinema, sometimes on whiskey and art. And for the record: she thinks strawberries are overrated.

JUDGE’S PICKS  –  CRAFT AWARDS

I DID THAT CRAFT AWARDS
Judge’s Pick – Thina Zibi

JUDGES COMMENT ON DIRECTION 
“This is a brilliant example of playful, culturally tuned-in storytelling. Firstly, I loved the clever placement of the Savanna logo in the real outdoors! A small detail but big statement. I enjoyed that this world of Savanna was kept realistic and not overly curated, a breath of fresh air from how we know the brand, while still maintaining its humorous and playful voice. The performances, human and creature alike, are instantly memorable, culminating perfectly in that final, comedic slap of the female character. VFX and live action blend seamlessly. Mosquitoes and chameleons feel like natural extensions of the environment, never gimmicky. The edit’s rhythm, with its wild repetition and mash-up of “We Outside”, builds comedic momentum that lands precisely and never overstays its welcome. A spot that’s smart, funny, and exquisitely crafted.

AWARDED
07 October 2025

KFC ‘M ssing Piece’
ENTRANT: Carbon Films | Bruno Bossi & Pressure Cooker Studios | Alex Smillie

I DID THAT CRAFT AWARDS
Judge’s Pick – Thina Zibi

JUDGES COMMENT ON DIRECTION & SOUND – FINAL MIX CRAFT
“A smart and playful spot that proves the power of simplicity. The idea is executed with such clarity, once the lead character notices one gap, he begins seeing them everywhere, and the concept spirals in a way that feels both relatable and delightful. What makes this piece stand out is the craft. The art direction is sharp and inventive, with each ‘missing piece’ moment thoughtfully designed to land visually and narratively. The humour is also heightened not just by what we see, but by the sound design, which beautifully ties the story together and guides the audience through the unfolding gag. A clever concept elevated by meticulous craft, every missing piece lands with wit and precision.

AWARDED
07 October 2025

I DID THAT CRAFT AWARDS
Judge’s Pick – Thina Zibi

JUDGES COMMENT ON DIRECTION 
“Tristan Holmes’ “Talent Loves Company” for RMB is a beautiful cinematic brand storytelling. The choice to live entirely in the character’s point of view is brilliantly intimate, we don’t just observe his journey, we inhabit it. The pacing is impeccable, with each cut and beat thoughtfully measured to carry both emotion and momentum. The music is a great choice. it walks that fine line between heart and edge, giving the piece a pulse that feels alive and modern. A perfect blend of craft and story that makes you feel, not just watch.

AWARDED
07 October 2025