Enver Samuel, a brilliant television producer and director with over three decades of industry experience, has forged a path that transcends the boundaries of conventional entertainment. With a deep-rooted desire to create impactful content, Samuel has shifted his focus from light entertainment to politically important documentaries that shed light on the forgotten heroes of South Africa. I had the pleasure of engaging with Enver at the University of Cape Town where he screened one of his upcoming documentaries. I was touched by his delicate approach to engaging with sensitive topics and the family members of victims of apartheid and how he highlighted the actions of ordinary individuals towards the fight against the apartheid government.

“I have a passion to tell untold and unsung stories of South Africans who have contributed to getting us to where we are today.”

Samuel’s journey in the television industry began with light entertainment shows, magazines, sports and travel shows and later to reality programs such as “The Great South African Bake Off”, “Survivor South Africa”, “Power Couple”, “My Kitchen Rules”, The Bachelorette and “Come Dine with Me.” to name a few. While these shows provided him with enjoyable experiences and the opportunity to explore captivating locations and meet intriguing individuals from around the country and the world, he felt a profound sense of emptiness deep within. It was during this time that Samuel stumbled upon a call from the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) seeking stories about unsung heroes. Prompted by an article about Ahmed Timol from the Sunday Times, he embarked on a journey that would redefine his career. “I didn’t even know who Ahmed Timol was. It’s just that I found that article in the Sunday Times Magazine quite fascinating. And, I challenged myself because I said to myself, why don’t I know who Ahmed Timol is? I mean his death sparked international outrage and was even tabled at the United Nations in 1971.”

Through thorough research, he uncovered the heart-wrenching narrative of Timol’s death, having been thrown from the 10th floor of the notorious John Vorster Square Police Building. The documentary Samuel created called “Indians Can’t Fly” shed light on the significance of who Timol was.  This revelation ignited a fire within Samuel, propelling him towards a newfound purpose. He became determined to tell the stories of unsung heroes in South Africa who played pivotal roles in the country’s journey towards democracy. The desire to unveil the narratives that had remained in obscurity became Samuel’s true calling, transforming him into a documentary filmmaker focused on politically important themes.

Samuel decided to continue to bring attention to those who had been forgotten or overlooked, “We all know Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, Steve Biko and Winnie Mandela, but what about the unsung foot soldiers, you know? Who played just as an important part but have been forgotten and neglected. In some way, I think that [these documentaries] give them a platform and lets their families feel that their loved ones are getting the recognition they deserve .” His documentaries, such as “Someone to Blame” and “Indians Can’t Fly,” have not only captivated viewers but have also had a profound impact on the subjects of these stories. Through powerful storytelling and meticulous research, Samuel breathes life into the past, ensuring that the struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices of South Africa’s unsung heroes are etched into the collective memory of the nation.

Enver recognizes that historical narratives have been shaped by the spotlight on key leaders, leaving countless anonymous figures who played critical roles in the shadows. By elevating these untold stories, he aims to restore their rightful place in the tapestry of South Africa’s history and collective memory. In his exploration of which stories to tell, Enver Samuel admits that the decision is not driven by any strict criteria or methodical approach. Instead, he experiences a deep and unexplainable spiritual connection to the subjects and their narratives during his research process. As he delves into the historical layers of these untold stories, there is an innate pull, a feeling that resonates within him, signalling the significance of a particular story. The process transcends rationality and leads him on a profound personal journey. It is as if the stories themselves beckon him to become their storyteller, unveiling the truth that has been obscured by the passage of time. The emotions that accompany this journey are intense, reflecting the weight of the responsibility he carries to do justice to the stories he has chosen to tell.

Ahmed Timol’s story strikes a chord with Samuel because of its poignant portrayal of an ordinary person thrust into extraordinary circumstances. As a humble school teacher, Timol’s decision to leave his country and family behind during the tumultuous 1970s to seek military training in Russia fascinated Samuel. What motivated someone like Timol, an individual of small stature, soft-spoken nature, and even a stutter, to sacrifice his life for the cause of justice in South Africa? Timol’s story embodies the ultimate sacrifice for one’s country, captivating Samuel’s interest in exploring the depths of human conviction. The filmmaker seeks to understand what drives individuals to take extraordinary actions, even when it is not their official duty. The ordinary and relatable nature of Timol’s character serves as a powerful reminder that heroism can emerge from the most unexpected places.

Enver Samuel’s quest to uncover the forgotten history of South Africa has led him to unexpected encounters and fortuitous connections. One such extraordinary story is that of Dulcie September, a name shrouded in obscurity until Samuel decided to share her story with the world. Just as he stumbled upon the tragic tale of Ahmed Timol through an article that was collecting dust on his desk, Dulcie September’s story presented itself in a similarly serendipitous manner. While attending a documentary festival in Switzerland, Samuel chanced upon a conversation with a relative of Dulcie’s family. This casual encounter set in motion a chain of events that led to the creation of a powerful documentary “Murder in Paris” that breathed life back into Dulcie September’s legacy. In essence, contributing to the un-erasure of her name.

In his documentaries, Samuel exhibits an important pattern of centring the family members and loved ones of the victims. This deliberate approach allows him to provide a platform for their voices to be heard and their stories to be shared. However, Samuel is acutely aware of the emotional challenges that arise from such discussions, and he handles them with great care. When approaching the families, he prioritizes open and honest conversations, ensuring that they fully understand the documentary’s concept and goals. He emphasizes the importance of the families’ consent and emotional preparedness, recognizing the trauma they have endured. Enver approaches them with humility and acknowledges their role as guides in the storytelling process. Something that should be a given in documentaries of such a nature.  Building trust and understanding is paramount for Samuel. His genuine intentions and sincerity shine through, assuaging the families’ concerns and encouraging their participation. Through personal meetings, Samuel establishes a human connection, providing a safe space for the families to share their emotions and personal experiences. If you ever get the chance to meet Enver in real life, you will understand why it is so easy for loved ones and families of apartheid victims can share their life stories with him — he is an incredibly gentle soul, giving voice to the silenced stories of foot soldiers. “The human connection is the first thing, and I’m lucky that the families see…they see me.” 

Samuel’s recent encounter with the Mabelane family, whose son Matthew suffered a similar fate to Timol, exemplifies the transformative power of involving families in the storytelling process. By explaining his intention to bring Matthew back to life through the documentary, Samuel initiated an emotional journey for the family. The niece of Dulcie September expressed gratitude for the opportunity to bring her aunt alive in the documentary “Murder in Paris.” She said “Thank you for bringing my aunt alive”…those were her words.”  

Samuel approaches the interviews with sensitivity and empathy, allowing the families to dictate the pace and boundaries of their involvement. He creates a safe environment for them to express their emotions, ensuring their well-being is prioritized throughout the process. In an era where discussions surrounding the ethics of murder mysteries and crime documentaries have surfaced, Samuel’s approach serves as a guiding light. He firmly believes in involving the families and respecting their wishes. Understanding that each family’s needs may differ, Samuel emphasizes the establishment of trust, transparency, and open communication from the outset.

Enver and I’s discussion turned to his series set to air on SABC 3 early next year. The series comprises six compelling documentary parts that centre around cases highlighted during the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). Aptly named “Truth be Told,” each episode stands as a testament to the power of these personal stories. Notably, each instalment bears an individual name, further highlighting the uniqueness and significance of the person featured. For instance, “Truth be Told: Bhekisizwe Mlangeni – Pathways to Light” follows the journey of Bheki Mlangeni’s son, Mandla, as he embarks on a quest to find solace and illumination through his musical career. I had the privilege and honour of watching Enver’s film on Bheki Mlangeni and I was completely flawed by how beautifully shot and narrated the story of Mr Mlangeni was, particularly because it was told through the lens of Mandla and his mother, Mrs Seipati Mlangeni. I had not heard of Mr Mlangeni prior to watching Enver’s documentary and I am so grateful to have been a part of the remembering of the life of an African lawyer who advocated for the liberation of South Africa from the apartheid regime and who was ultimately killed by it. Another episode, “Truth be Told: Phila Portia Ndwandwe – The Breastfeeding Warrior,” sheds light on Phila Portia’s extraordinary story, where her son affectionately refers to her as the breastfeeding warrior, reflecting his childhood memories of her as a nurturer and a warrior.

Our conversation then shifted towards Enver Samuel’s production company, EMS Productions, which has achieved remarkable success, garnering awards and accolades both locally and abroad such as the South African Film & Television Award, SAFTAs for Indians Can’t Fly, Someone To Blame – The Ahmed Timol Inquest and Murder in Paris. At the Durban International Film Festival in 2021, Enver was bestowed with the Human Rights Award and Murder in Paris won the best documentary award.  Enver expressed his unwavering commitment to the path he has chosen, finding it personally fulfilling. He plans to continue creating works that resonate with his beliefs and values under the banner of EMS Productions. While acknowledging the challenges of securing adequate funding for projects, he remains undeterred. Enver’s dedication to storytelling is unwavering, driven by the multitude of untold stories waiting to be shared with the world.

Beyond his creative endeavours, Enver Samuel has taken on the role of mentor for emerging producers and directors through various film commissions. This aspect of his work holds significant importance to him, and he has been engaged in mentoring for an extensive period. Enver believes in the transformative power of nurturing and guiding new talents, enabling them to unlock their full potential in the industry. His ultimate goal is to instil in them a sense of the vast possibilities for growth and success within the field. Furthermore, he emphasizes the significance of telling meaningful stories that leave a lasting impact. In a world where convenience often dictates choices, Enver encourages aspiring filmmakers to delve deeper and unearth narratives that can truly change lives.

Born in South Africa but raised in England, Ghana, and Zambia, Samuel’s experiences with diverse cultures and walks of life have undoubtedly influenced his work. Although he may not have consciously linked his upbringing to his attraction to storytelling and documentary filmmaking, the connection seems evident. The broadened perspective and open-mindedness fostered by living in different countries have undoubtedly shaped his approach to documenting the lives and stories of diverse individuals. Continuing our dialogue, I inquired whether Samuel had returned to South Africa during the apartheid era or had spent that period abroad. He revealed that his family made a significant decision to return to South Africa before the official end of apartheid. Years later this proved to be a momentous occasion, as they were eventually able to witness the country’s transition firsthand and participate in the historic act of casting their votes for the very first time. Samuel’s journey as a filmmaker further extended to Australia, where he spent three years studying to earn his degree in media.

Enver Samuel’s story exemplifies the profound impact that personal experiences and cultural diversity can have on an artist’s work. Through his films, he endeavours to shed light on the multifaceted nature of humanity and capture the essence of diverse lives. It is through the lens of filmmakers like Samuel that we can hope to bring attention to the struggles faced by the South African film industry and inspire a shift towards more meaningful storytelling.

Enver Samuel’s transition from light entertainment to politically important documentaries has been driven by a desire to make a lasting impact on South Africa’s cultural and historical landscape. With his work, he strives to fill the gaps in our understanding of the nation’s past, while inspiring dialogue and reflection on the present and future. By dedicating himself to unveiling the untold narratives of South Africa’s heroes, Samuel has become an essential voice in the realm of documentary filmmaking, ensuring that the stories that deserve to be heard are heard, acknowledged, and celebrated. As a documentary filmmaker, Enver Samuel’s work extends far beyond mere storytelling. His journey is driven by a spiritual connection to the untold stories of South Africa’s unsung heroes. With a keen sense of purpose, he honours the lives of those who fought for freedom and justice, ensuring that their sacrifices and contributions are forever etched into the collective memory of the nation. Through his films, Samuel revives forgotten legacies and challenges historical erasure, reminding us all that even in the darkest corners of history, there are stories of courage, resilience, and hope. 

You can watch the full “Murder in Paris” documentary on Showmax (trailer)

If you would like to learn more about Dulcie September and join in on the fight for holding her murderers accountable, check out: murderinparis.com and sign this petition