The Jakes Gerwel residency for young screenwriters was definitely one of the highlights of my 2023. I made so many friends, gained so much knowledge about writing and the film industry and had THE BEST food! (Thanks, Gilbert!) Anyone thinking of applying: Do it! It was an unforgettable experience in a beautiful setting with amazing people. After twelve days of writing, I felt more inspired than ever before. A big thanks to everyone that made it possible, especially Tina Kruger. You are amazing.
- Would you care to share what your internship entails – length of time, where will you be based and in what capacity?
I will be doing my internship at Binnelanders for three months. I’ve met with some of their amazing writers already and can’t wait to jump in at the beginning of February next year. I will be forming part of their writing team. The first week I will spend in Johannesburg and after that I will be writing from home (Cape Town). It really is a dream come true and I am looking forward to learning from talented writers in the industry. I don’t know who is more excited, me or my Ouma (she’s a HUGE Binnelanders fan).
- What will happen to the scripts you worked on in SE? Will it be filmed?
I worked on an Afrikaans drama series during my time in the Eastern Cape. I am still fine tuning my pitch, but I hope to pitch to channel next year. Let’s see what happens …
- How are you feeling right now? A year ago, did you think this would be on the horizon for you this year?
Not at all. A year ago, I was still studying in Stellenbosch, and I could only dream of an opportunity like this. When I look back on the year behind me, I realise how far I’ve come in a short amount of time. This could not have been possible without the many doors Jakes Gerwel Foundation has opened for me. As a young artist, I am extremely grateful to get an opportunity like this so early in my career.
- Any tips for the future 2024 mentees? It is the one question that I get asked from mentees who were in the short story or playwriting mentorships, “What did they do that got them into the mentorship?”
If you’re pitching, pitch something you WANT to write – something you feel PASSIONATE about. It will show in your work. Don’t pitch something you think people will like, pitch something YOU like. Make sure your CV stays up to date and while you are waiting for the next work opportunity, make short films with your friends, write and rewrite scripts and watch good theatre/films/TV series. I also think the motivational letter that you send with your mentorship application is extremely important. Take your time with all the aspects of the application. And if you are chosen for the mentorship, make the most of it. Ask too many questions. Make notes on everything. Time flies when you are having fun.
Gita was a participant in the first Jakes Gerwel Foundation | M-Net Channels mentorship for budding television scriptwriters in 2023. In another first for the foundation, this is the first group of mentees to be offered internships by a mentorship programme partner.
Out and about on the Bosberg trails (L-R) are Palesa Shongwe, Gita, mentor Tina Kruger, Paulet House chef Gilbert van Zyl, Niel Coetzee, Ross Jantjies and Sindisa Masiza.
Gita Fourie hails from Hopefield. She obtained her BA in Drama at the Stellenbosch University. This year she was nominated for a Fiësta Award in the category of "Best Upcoming Artist" and was awarded the Kanna Award for "Best Upcoming Artist" at the 2023 KKNK festival.
One thought on “Gita Fourie: Internship at Binnelanders for three months”
Baie geluk, Gita, ek volg jou loopbaan noukeurig!