By Thako Mmatshepo
In a dynamic celebration of culture and identity, Tirelo Samson Sadike,a passionate media student, utilizes the art of stage play to convey the vibrant essence of Africanism. Through his creative pursuits, he seeks to challenge prevailing perceptions and cultivate a deeper appreciation for African heritage, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the narratives that define their world.
Meet the 24-years-old Tirelo Samson Sadike, who drives is passion for creating meaningful short films. Photo: Supplied
The 24-year-old from Mokopane in Limpopo, first discovered his love for the stage through Sunday school plays. Though he didn’t participate in any productions during high school, his passion for art never faded. It reignited in 2022 when he enrolled in Media Studies at the University of Limpopo.
During stage play rehearsals, his talent was noticed by Mpho Seerane, a Performing Art lecturer at UL, who invited him to join his production team. Soon after, Tirelo performed in several plays, including Ghost Twerkers and Prince of Sovenga, at campus and community events. He also performed at the National Arts Festival in the Eastern Cape. That same year, he joined the University of Limpopo Performing Arts Centre (ULPAC), contributing to plays like Price Tag, Breaking Chain, and Man-Made Madness.
Sadike’s journey into film and production started with ULPAC, where he took roles in short films, including acting in Lost Series (2023) and directing The Escape (2024). He co-produced Serum of Honour and an upcoming short film, Nation of No Cheating, in collaboration with fellow students. His filmmaking passion stems from personal experiences in his community, where he focuses on raising awareness about crime and drug abuse. He hopes his films will help curb the rise of crime among the youth.
“Lights, camera, action!” Capturing the magic of filmmaking, one clapboard at a time. Photo: Supplied
Tirelo drives his passion for creating these meaningful short films from the experiences he encountered in his community. “I mostly create short films that create awareness about thug life’’ remarked Sadike. During his interview, he highlighted how disturbed he was by the high rise of crime and the use of drugs in his community and South Africa as a whole. He further highlighted how his short films are aimed at curbing the rise of crime in the youth. also uses media to challenge “electronic colonialism,” aiming to decolonize African minds and promote pride in their cultures. Inspired by productions like Queen Modjadji and South African creators such as Ofentse Mowase, Tirelo aspires to collaborate with industry professionals.
He wishes to advise those who have a passion for film and stage play to come out of their cocoons and showcase their talents and try to network with people on the same path they want to pursue.
