Meet Kamogelo Mokoena

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kamogelo Mokoena.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’m a Filmmaker, born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa, based in Los Angeles. I realized my love for visual storytelling during my undergraduate degree in Communications, where I began exploring Photography as a self-taught hobby. This passion soon sparked my interest in cinematography and directing.

My love for filmmaking was sparked when, during my third year of tertiary education, I was appointed to direct a play for a reputable Ladies Residence on campus. I knew then that I was never going to turn back. This was my first time not just being the performer but rather directing and producing a performance.

A year later, I decided to leave South Africa to pursue my Masters in Filmmaking. I graduated late 2018 and have since been Freelancing in Producing, Acting, Screenwriting, and Modeling. This summer, I was fortunate enough to be accepted as one of 24 filmmakers in a program at USC (University of Southern California) in collaboration with Warner Bros. The academic journey towards filmmaking is one that I believe will truly allow me to uncover some great stories that will shape the way we all view ourselves and the world around us.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
This has not been a smooth road. The challenges of being a female filmmaker in a male-dominated industry have taught me to speak up in moments when exclusion is evident. It has also taught me not to sit and wait for permission to do what I love but rather to get up and just do it.

We’d love to hear more about what you do.
In terms of filmmaking, I’m drawn to stories about people tackling everyday socio-cultural issues. Vulnerable and relatable characters you feel like you could know in real life. Genres such as Suspense-thrillers, drama and dark comedies are what I enjoy working on most. I also have a soft spot for religious animations, since my childhood was filled with those. Currently, I focus more on producing and directing but as of late, I’ve been fortunate enough to have opportunities to act and model, which has been a fun experience for me. I’m taking everything as it comes and it’s been very rewarding.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I would describe success as ‘Self-actualization’ and getting paid to do what you love.

Contact Info:

• Email: kamogelo.mokoena@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamo_palate/
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9464330/?ref_=nv_sr_1

Image Credit:
Charles Ancelle- Behind The Scenes Photography
House of Bars – HOB Photoshoot

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