Welcome to “Lights, Camera, Crew“, an initiative dedicated to shining a light on the often-overlooked film crew members who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring movies to life. Through interviews, profiles, and behind-the-scenes insights into the filmmaking process, we aim to give these talented professionals the recognition they deserve and inspire aspiring filmmakers to pursue careers in the industry.

In this interview, Shingirai Manyengavana (SM) speaks with Adelaide ‘Segan’ Ganyani (AG), a gifted writer, poet, and filmmaker from Zimbabwe who has dedicated her life to storytelling and creativity. From a young age, she was enchanted by the magic of the arts, and her love for writing has only grown stronger with time.

She is a certified marketer by profession. With a diverse background in the arts, Adelaide has explored various mediums, including scripting, video editing, and photography. However, it is in the art of filmmaking that she has found her true calling. As the Director and Founder of Segan GloMedia, she is driven by a singular aspiration: to produce films that resonate with global audiences. Her journey as a filmmaker is marked by dedication, creativity, and passion. Her unique perspective shaped by her Zimbabwean roots and global vision, promises to bring fresh voices and stories to the world of cinema.

We hope you enjoy this conversation and gain insight into the vital contributions of creative individuals like Adelaide in the film industry.

SM: Hello Adelaide, thank you for joining us today to share your experiences as a filmmaker and the important role that creative talents like you play in bringing stories to life. We are eager to learn more about your work and the impact of your films on global audiences. Who are you in one sentence, and what is the story behind your creative name “Segan”?

AG: Adelaide Ganyani is a passionate storyteller and changemaker. My creative name “Segan” is derived from Hebrew, meaning sunshine. I chose it because I aim to bring light and positivity to the world of storytelling through my work.

SM: What is the most memorable feedback you have received from an audience member, and how did it impact your storytelling approach?

AG: One of the most memorable pieces of feedback I have received was from audience members who said my work helped them reconnect with their African roots and appreciate the richness of our culture. I have also been praised for my creativity and imagination; one director even said my writing was “completely out of the box” and unlike anything they had read before. This kind of feedback reinforces my goal to bring depth and authenticity to African storytelling, and I am grateful to be making a meaningful impact through my work.

SM: As a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry, what advice would you give to young women looking to break into film production?

AG: I would encourage young women to remain resilient and true to themselves. Despite the challenges I have faced, I have learned to persevere and push forward. Stay focused on your goals, be authentic, and never give up even when faced with obstacles. With determination and hard work, you can overcome the hurdles and succeed in this industry.

SM: How has your Zimbabwean heritage influenced your storytelling style, and what themes do you often explore in your work?

AG: My Zimbabwean heritage is a profound influence on my storytelling. I am strongly rooted in and connected to my African culture, and this connection naturally finds its way into my work. Most of my ideas are drawn from our rich cultural heritage. I strive to highlight the unique stories and experiences that define our community and use my voice to promote cross-cultural understanding.

SM: What is the most significant risk you have taken in your career, and was it worth it?

AG: One significant risk I took was leaving a secure job to fully pursue my passion for storytelling. It was not an easy decision, but it allowed me to grow creatively and discover my full potential. Through organizations like Simba Arts Trust, which support female artists, I have found opportunities to develop my craft. That risk paid off, and I am grateful for where the journey has taken me.

SM: Can you tell us about a particularly memorable collaboration you have had with another artist or organization? What made it stand out?

AG: I have had the privilege of working with remarkable organizations and artists. One highlight was collaborating with Entertainment Afrika Studio, which empowered me to explore filmmaking and supported my early projects. A standout experience was working with renowned director Marc T. Mandisoul on the Netflix series House of Stones. His passion for storytelling and expertise inspired me greatly. It was an honor to learn from him and be part of a project that elevated my growth as a filmmaker.

SM: How do you approach co-creating with writers, directors, or producers from diverse backgrounds?

AG: I focus on finding common ground and a shared vision. As long as we are passionate about the story, we can collaborate effectively. I believe that diverse perspectives enrich storytelling. Working with creatives from different backgrounds often leads to powerful, unique projects that celebrate our differences and shared humanity.

SM: What is the most unexpected twist you have encountered while storytelling, and how did you weave it into your narrative?

AG: One of the joys of writing is discovering that characters often evolve in unexpected ways. I may start with a particular plot in mind, but the story takes its own course. It is as if the characters come alive and guide the narrative. These surprises keep storytelling exciting. It is a journey of discovery for both the writer and the audience.

SM: How do you balance cultural authenticity with global appeal in your films?

AG: I stay grounded in my African roots. I believe authenticity resonates universally. Instead of adapting to foreign cultures, I focus on telling genuine African stories that transcend borders. This allows me to stay true to my identity while connecting with global audiences through universal emotions and themes.

SM: What can you tell us about your upcoming Netflix series, and what excites you most about working with the platform?

AG: I am thrilled to be a co-writer on the upcoming Netflix series House of Stone, directed by Marc T. Mandisoul of Entertainment Africa Studios. What excites me most is the platform’s ability to reach a global audience. As a co-writer, I help craft characters, storylines, and scripts that reflect Zimbabwean culture. This series will take viewers on a powerful journey through our traditions, people, and the human experience, rooted in Zimbabwe but relevant to the world.

SM: What message do you hope your films convey to global audiences, and how do you plan to achieve that?

AG: I want my films to showcase the richness and diversity of African narratives. My goal is to inspire global audiences to embrace and appreciate African stories, while encouraging Africans to connect with and take pride in their heritage. Through positive, authentic storytelling, I hope to bridge cultures and build deeper understanding and appreciation worldwide.

SM: What is next for Segan Global Media Network, and how do you see yourself contributing to the global cinema?

AG: The vision for Segan Global Media Network is to become a leading content creator that produces films with global resonance. Our focus is on universal themes; family, politics, and love, while staying grounded in African perspectives. I want Segan Global Media to become a household name known for impactful storytelling. Personally, I aim to contribute to the global cinema by elevating diverse voices and creating content that inspires, educates, and connects people across the world.