The AWDFF is sponsored by the E. Desmond Lee Professorship in African/American Studies for the International Studies and Programs and Surfing Soweto received $1000 as the prize for winning the Best Full Length Documentary.
"I am humbled and honoured for our film to be chosen for this award. All three of the train surfers were so generous in sharing their lives with us so that people around the world could begin to get a glimpse into their realities and struggles. I am thrilled because this award really honours that," says documentary director Sara Blecher.
Developed over three years, Surfing Soweto follows Prince, Lefa and Mzembe. This incredibly poignant film tells the coming of age story of three disenfranchised Soweto teenagers who literally 'surf' the moving trains between Johannesburg and Soweto. Every day the boys tempt fate while doing this and endeavour death-defying stunts, often with some shocking consequences. Prince is The Godfather of train surfing in the township, schooling guys on the dangers. He’s a self-declared platinum medalist of the 'sport'.
For more information about Surfing Soweto, email Sara Blecher.
