South Africa / 2020 / 36mins / Historical Drama / Xhosa, Zulu, and English

Set in 1955 in Gracetown, South Africa, Joko Ya Hao follows Nozizwe, a 30-year-old woman who dreams of becoming a lay preacher in the Methodist Church. Standing in her way is Mr. Mvelase, a theology teacher who does not believe in women’s ability to lead. As Nozizwe confronts Mr. Mvelase’s prejudices, she also finds herself facing a bigger problem: the forced removals of Black South Africans by the apartheid government. Inspired by the memory and spirit of Winnie Mandela, Joko Ya Hao is a celebration of the power of women.

Mmabatho Montsho

Mmabatho Montsho is a multi-disciplinary storyteller who finds expression through the medium of film, television and fine art. Recognized and awarded for her work across the creative sphere, Mmabatho has garnered multiple plaudits, for her work on and in soaps, telenovelas, film and drama series. Passionate about developing the landscape of the South African narrative, Mmabatho has worked as a script consultant and development mentor with the MNET Magic in Motion Academy for several years. Learn More