Channel O Celebrates Black Queer Brilliance with ‘Young, Gifted & Queer’ Premiere
As Pride Month comes to a close, Channel O (DStv Channel 320) is set to deliver a powerful, unapologetic tribute to Black queer excellence with the premiere of Young, Gifted & Queer on 31 October. This groundbreaking documentary, directed by award-winning filmmaker Renaldo Schwarp, promises to spotlight the trailblazing Black queer voices that are shaping South African culture, challenging societal norms, and creating a vibrant, forward-thinking future.
Young, Gifted & Queer delves into the captivating lives of three of Mzansi’s most influential Black queer figures: Andiswa Dlamini, the founder of Other Village People and a pioneering curator of queer spaces; Umlilo, the genre-bending, intergalactic ‘kwaai diva’; and S’bo Gyre, the pop-rapper whose unique artistry has redefined the entertainment landscape in South Africa. These bold creatives are not only making waves in their respective fields but are also championing visibility and representation for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Schwarp masterfully intertwines these personal stories with insights from iconic queer voices, cultural figures, and journalists, creating a dynamic and electrifying portrait of Black queer life. The documentary explores the struggles, triumphs, and lasting impact of these individuals on the local arts, music, and activist scenes.
Charis Coleman, the documentary’s executive producer, underscores the cultural significance of Young, Gifted & Queer, describing it as a celebration of resilience, joy, and self-empowerment. “This is more than just entertainment—it’s a celebration of Black queer lives, and how they continue to influence and shape the world around us,” Coleman shares. “In a time when hate crimes against the queer community are increasing, we choose to celebrate and uplift our voices.”
For Schwarp, the documentary is a tribute to the brilliance of Black queer individuals. “This is not a story of struggle or sorrow,” he says. “It’s a loud, unapologetic celebration of the immense creativity, power, and influence of Black queer people. These are the artists, innovators, and trailblazers who are transforming South African art, music, and culture. The world needs to see just how revolutionary they are.”
For Andiswa Dlamini, being a part of Young, Gifted & Queer is deeply personal and powerful. “This project made me realize just how much space we need to truly tell our stories,” she says. “I hope that people see the beauty, love, and community within the LGBTQIA+ community when they watch this documentary.”
S’bo Gyre reflects on the documentary’s role in elevating queer narratives, likening it to the iconic film Paris is Burning. “I remember thinking that we need our stories told with the same care and nuance,” he says. “Being part of Young, Gifted & Queer is a dream because it captures the multi-generational Black queer experience in Mzansi, and it’s an opportunity to shift how people perceive queer excellence—not just through art, but through our lived experiences.”
Umlilo adds that being part of a film that highlights queer joy is essential, noting how stories of queer trauma often dominate the media. “I’m proud to be part of something that celebrates amazing queer people in South Africa,” Umlilo shares. “I hope viewers see us as humans with families, lives, hopes, and dreams, just like them.”
In addition to Dlamini, Umlilo, and S’bo, the documentary also features other leading queer voices, including Lelowhatsgood, Olwethu “Ms Party” Mlotshwa, Ashwin Bosman, Dr. Bev Ditsie, Lula Odiba, and Sibs Matiyela, among others.
Mark your calendars and tune in to Channel O (DStv Channel 320) on Friday, 31 October at 9 pm for the premiere of Young, Gifted & Queer—a documentary that celebrates the transformative power of Black queer creativity and will leave you inspired, energized, and moved.
