“Let Young People Tell Their Own Stories”- Stephina Zwane Groenewald on Coming-of-Age Films and Making Space for New Voices

Stephina Zwane Groenewald knows the power of a good story—and she’s made a career of telling ones that feel close to home. From “Baby Mamas” to “Love, Sex & 30 Candles”, her work consistently celebrates South African narratives, everyday characters, and a deep respect for both cast and crew.

After taking time off to have her baby, “The Soccer Season Playmaker” marks Stephina’s return to set—and her first time directing a sports-inspired drama. It’s part of a trilogy, adapted from Jayne Bauling’s YA novel of the same name, and follows a young soccer talent, Lunga, navigating loyalty, loss, and the pressure to show up for his dreams.

“The film was shot two or three years ago, and it was my first job after I had my baby,” Stephina shares. “It felt really good to be back—especially with a young cast that was so passionate. And because I’ve always loved sports movies, it was a dream project.”

Though one of three directors on the project, Stephina set the tone by helming the first installment. The film features an ensemble of rising South African actors, and one Nigerian face—Genoveva Umeh—fresh off her AMVCA win for “Breath of Life”.

“When I came on board, the cast was already locked,” she says. “Genoveva flew in right after the AMVCAs and came straight to set from the airport. That first day was her first on set and mine too—but she showed up and gave more than we even expected. Complete professional. I’d work with her again in a heartbeat.”

The energy on set was electric, but not without its challenges—especially the South African winter. “We were shooting like it was summer: everyone in shorts, pretending it was hot. But the young cast were all in, and most of them had played soccer at some point, so they brought their own memories and experiences to the roles.”

More than a soccer story, “Playmaker” is a love letter to youth, teamwork, and persistence. The production even included spontaneous moments—like incorporating “war cry” songs often heard at South African soccer matches.

“It wasn’t in the script, but it felt right,” Stephina explains. “We came up with melodies and lyrics on the spot. That added authenticity, especially for local audiences.”

Beyond the production itself, Stephina is vocal about the importance of showcasing young actors in coming-of-age stories—something she feels the continent needs more of. “We don’t see enough films about young people that are actually for young people. These kids brought so much joy, so much realness to the story. I hope audiences feel that.”

As for the challenges of adapting books for screen, Stephina knows it well. “I did it with ‘Love, Sex & 30 Candles’, and now this. It’s tricky—because no matter how many people read a book, we all imagine it differently. So as a director, you’re making one person’s version of that world, and you have to make tough choices about what to keep or let go.”

Funding remains one of the toughest hurdles for filmmakers on the continent. “There are some structures in place, but it’s still really hard to get full backing,” she admits. “I’d love to see a South Africa where both public and private sectors invest in film seriously—so we can run this like the business it is.”

For Stephina, success isn’t about awards or hype—it’s about doing meaningful work, and being able to keep doing it. “If I can wake up and do what I love, give my best that day, and be rewarded for it—especially financially—that’s success.”

When she’s not on set, Stephina is either writing new projects or in post-production (she’s currently working on two films). But on her dream days? “I’m just sitting at home, reading a book.”

As “The Soccer Season Playmaker” premieres on Netflix, she hopes viewers connect with the youth-driven energy of the film. “We’ve been sleeping on stories like this. I just hope people appreciate the performances—and how much these young actors left on the floor.”

And though she’s a lifelong sports fan, here’s a fun fact: “I’m actually a netball player, not a soccer one,” she laughs. “But same energy—just a different number of players.”