About Abaka Amara Productions

our values & purpose

Commitment, inspiration and integrity, are the first three words that come to mind when we come together as a team.

Determination, passion and enthusiasm are what we bring to our projects.

We don't take no for an answer! - From conception to finalization.

Our non-founding partners come from diverse backgrounds and experience. We believe in them because of their individual contributions. They offer us a unique combination of collective strengths in business strategy, finance, environmental conservation, production and directing, travel, legal and public relations, amongst others. All these bring a refreshing perspective to various genres in our projects.

MORE ABOUT US

Founding members Martéz Saporta-Rothuysen and Ara Manuelian are determined to bring their experience to produce unique South African and continental African films, as well as collaborate with international film makers, creatives, producers and funders, whilst remaining true to the rich variety of natural, cultural and social diversity of their local landscape.

Martéz, with her 35 years of experience on set, both in front of and behind the camera, also runs a successful talent agency, managing both South African and international actors, models, performers and creative talent, regularly booking commercials, television, film and modelling stints for them.

Ara, an experienced venture capitalist and business strategist with numerous successful local and international business ventures, brings to the table his cross cultural experience, in addition to his passion for wildlife and environmental conservation.

"A new movie is nothing more than a start-up company", he would say.

A multicultural, ethnically diverse team of creative, networking, legal and technical specialists, combined with over ten languages spoken makes Abaka Amara a truly diverse and international company, whilst maintaining its African DNA.