HER KHALTSHA
'Her Khaltsha' is an inspiring short documentary that captures the spirit and determination of Khaltsha Cycling Academy, the first all-girls cycling group in Khayelitsha. Through their cycling journeys, the girls not only challenge societal norms, but find freedom, express their emotions, and dream beyond their neighbourhood.
The Khaltsha Cycling Academy is more than just a cycling club; it’s a movement that empowers women and girls through cycling. Pedalled by the belief that education and sport can change lives, the academy is all about helping young girls in South Africa reach their full potential.
Director Robyn Phillips, from her own deeply personal experience, knows what it’s like to navigate the city on two wheels. With the talented cinematography (and rider) Jason Prins, they capture the unique experience every woman faces while cycling. For many femme bodies, the love of ride outweighs the struggles. But let’s be real: being a girl on a bike comes with its own set of challenges. It’s tougher, more dangerous, and often met with skepticism. Yet, the thrill of cycling brings a sense of freedom that’s hard to beat.
These young cyclists have taken on races like the Cape Town Cycle Tour, but their journey hasn’t been a smooth ride. Each girl has faced obstacles, from community disapproval to bullying and harassment. Some have even lost friendships and struggled with support from family for pursuing their passion. But they equally get a lot of love. Ngcali Simelela, one of the female riders, says “Here is Khayelitsha, they are like ‘hey that girl is on a bike, good for her’. Because they know in their minds, it mostly white people on the bike. It’s new for them to see”. The girls follow their dreams, inspiring and teaching other girls in Khayelitsha to chase their dreams too.
'Her Khaltsha' takes you on a ride with the team as they embark on tough training sessions, capturing the spirit as they ride together, dance together and care together. It’s so important that the teams voices are heard. The Khaltsha Cycling Academy needs ongoing support for gear, equipment, and their clubhouse expenses.
Catch 'Her Khaltsha' at Design Week South Africa, with screenings on Friday at 18:00 and 19:00, and Sunday at 12:00 and 13:00 at The Labia
CREW:
Starring: Khaltsha Cycling Academy
Film Director: Robyn Phillips
Executive Producers: Sindile Mavundla and Josefin Jinx
Cinematographer: Jason Prins
Production Manager: Juma Mkwela
Post Production Producer: Brandon Clarke
Assembly Editor: Ndivhu Mushanganyisi
Editor: Dumisani Sibanda
Colour Studio: Comfort and Frame Studios
Colourist: Nic Apostoli and Fran Verveckken
Sound: Kwanda Mkosi
Song: Denise Onen
Final Sound Mixer: Daniel Lobel
Location: Michael Jojo
CAST:
Puseletso Altina Maretela
Akhona Oliphant
Kwanele Mtshobile
Ngcali Simelela
Thulile Gwama
Khanya Yenani
Azola Gilivane
Iviwe Yolo
Sesethu Jikela