Meet the team

Get to know the people behind Christian Filmmakers Network (CFN)

Joel Wenyira

Joel Wenyira – Founder/President of Christian Filmmakers Network (CFN)

Joel Wenyira is a Christian filmmaker, director, and storyteller dedicated to creating impactful faith-based films. As the founder of the Christian Filmmakers Network (CFN), he envisions a thriving community where Christian creatives collaborate to produce high-quality films that inspire, uplift, and transform lives.

With a background in Directing and currently pursuing a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Motion Picture Medium at AFDA Film School, Johannesburg, Joel blends artistic excellence with a deep commitment to faith-driven storytelling. Joel also holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Statistics as well as a Masters degree in Monitoring and Evaluation. His work is influenced by renowned Christian filmmakers like the Erwin Brothers, Kendrick Brothers, Dallas Jenkins, and Mount Zion Films as well as his personal experiences and faith journey.

Joel is also the director of Finding Love and Light, a musical short film that showcases his passion for integrating compelling narratives with biblical themes. Through CFN, he is committed to accelarating the spread of the gospel through creation of high quality films, and equipping Christian filmmakers with the resources, mentorship, and platform they need to create stories that glorify God and make a lasting impact.

Nolulamo (Lulu) Maquthu – Head of Production

Lulu Maquthu, a devoted child of God, is a South African actress and filmmaker whose life and career are a testament to the intersection of faith, artistry, and education. Guided by her unwavering belief, she seeks to use her talents to glorify God and contribute to His Kingdom.

In 2012, Lulu graduated with Honors in Drama and Performance from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), building upon her Cum Laude degree in Drama Studies from the Durban University of Technology.

Currently, she nurtures the next generation of artists as a senior acting lecturer at the AFDA Johannesburg Campus, imparting not only technical skills but also the importance of using their gifts for a higher purpose.

Further demonstrating her commitment to Kingdom advancement, Lulu joined The Christian Filmmaker’s Network (2024) as Head of Production. In this role, she leverages her expertise to support and empower Christian filmmakers, helping them create content that reflects God's truth and brings hope to the world.

Nolulamo Maquthu

Thabitha Mmatiro

Thabitha Mmatiro – Secretary

Thabitha Mmatiro serves as the Secretary of the Christian Filmmakers Network (CFN), bringing her passion for storytelling and faith to the forefront of her work. Born and raised in the small village of Rathoke, Thabitha's Christian upbringing profoundly shaped her values and inspired her to share the gospel through film and television.

With a BA in Motion Picture Medium from AFDA Film School, she is dedicated to creating content that inspires, uplifts, and shares the message of hope and redemption. A life-changing encounter with her spiritual siblings deepened her understanding of her calling, strengthening her commitment to using film as a tool for spreading God’s Word. Through CFN, Thabitha plays a vital role in fostering a Christ-centered creative community, ensuring that faith-driven filmmakers have the support and structure they need to bring transformative stories to life.

Emihle Kutu

Emihle Kutu – Head of Spiritual Life

Emihle Kutu is the Head of Spiritual Life at the Christian Filmmakers Network (CFN), committed to guiding and nurturing faith-driven storytellers. With a deep passion for integrating biblical principles into filmmaking, he mentors creatives in using their craft to inspire, uplift, and share the gospel through visual storytelling.

Currently completing his BA in Motion Picture Medium at AFDA, Emihle brings a unique blend of spiritual wisdom and cinematic expertise, ensuring that faith remains at the heart of every production. Through CFN, he is dedicated to fostering a God-centered creative community, where filmmakers are empowered to tell transformative stories that glorify Christ.

Lerato Mashiane

Lerato Mashiane – Head of Finance

Lerato Mashiane is a Jesus-loving storyteller with a deep passion for faith-based films that glorify the Kingdom of God. As the Head of Finance at the Christian Filmmakers Network (CFN), she is committed to ensuring the network's financial growth and stability.