A Tribe Called Story
| Type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film and television production |
| Founded | 2017 |
| Founders | Mbalizethu Zulu, Aluta Qupa, Thembalethu Mfebe |
| Headquarters | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Products | Television series, television films |
A Tribe Called Story (ATCS) is a South African film and television production company founded in 2017 by filmmakers Mbalizethu Zulu, Aluta Qupa and Thembalethu Mfebe. The company is known for producing television films and drama series for Mzansi Magic and 1Magic, including Impilo: The Scam, Umqhele, Moratuwa, Unkosikazi Wokuqala and Isikhundla.[1][2]
History
A Tribe Called Story was established in 2017 by Mbalizethu Zulu, Aluta Qupa and Thembalethu Mfebe. The founders met through film development initiatives including the MultiChoice Talent Factory and M-Net's Magic in Motion programme. According to the founders, the company was created to develop and produce stories centred on contemporary South African experiences while creating opportunities for emerging filmmakers.[1][3]
The company first gained attention through a series of made-for-television films commissioned by Mzansi Magic. These productions included Umqhele, Moratuwa, Unkosikazi Wokuqala and Isikhundla.[1][2]
Productions
In 2019, A Tribe Called Story produced Impilo: The Scam, a drama series centred on financial fraud and pyramid schemes in South Africa. The series premiered on 1Magic and was later broadcast on Mzansi Magic.[4]
The production received media attention for its portrayal of contemporary social issues affecting young South Africans and for being developed by a young creative team.[3][5]
By 2023, the company had expanded its slate of television productions and continued developing projects for South African broadcasters.[2]
Style and themes
The company's productions frequently focus on contemporary South African society, youth culture and social challenges. Commentators have noted its emphasis on stories reflecting the experiences of young South Africans and emerging communities.[1][3]
Filmography
Television series
- Impilo: The Scam (2019)
Television films
- Umqhele
- Moratuwa
- Unkosikazi Wokuqala
- Isikhundla
- Uthando Lwethu
- Isipho Sothando
- Mama
See also
References
- 1 2 3 4 Mngxitama, Lindiwe. "A Tribe Called Story: Self-Dubbed Modern Day Silver Screen Griots". Bubblegum Club. Retrieved 1 June 2026.
- 1 2 3 Chiothamisi, Thomas (10 May 2023). "How A Tribe Called Story Seeks To Provide Opportunities To Young Filmmakers". Startup Magazine. Retrieved 1 June 2026.
- 1 2 3 "Impilo: The Scam – A Display of Youthful Exuberance". The Next Generation of Greats. 13 July 2019. Retrieved 1 June 2026.
- ↑ "Screening of Impilo: The Scam". City Press. News24. 8 July 2019. Retrieved 1 June 2026.
- ↑ "Defrauded! The reality of Ponzi and pyramid schemes in SA". Business Day. 23 December 2019. Retrieved 1 June 2026.