Our Philosophy
We believe in the transformative power of visual storytelling to showcase the African narrative with authenticity and artistry. Through cinematography and visual storytelling, we seek to elevate African voices and underrepresented communities, in pursuit to honor our continent's rich storytelling heritage. For generations, storytelling has been the heartbeat of African culture—teaching values, preserving history, and bringing communities together.
Rawsoot Studios stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation, creating films that resonate locally while speaking to global audiences. We craft visual stories that accompany Africans through moments of triumph and challenge, capturing the full spectrum of our shared humanity. Through strategic partnerships and sustainable practices, we seek to build more than just films—we're here to contribute to an economically vibrant and culturally confident African creative industry based in Zimbabwe and beyond.
Canon’s corporate philosophy is kyosei. It conveys our dedication to seeing all people, regardless of culture, customs, language or race, or gender living and working together in peace and harmony. Against such a backdrop, it was an easy decision to support Rawsoot Studios in creating films! I am proud that as Canon we are able to support the Zimbabwean film industry.
DAVID PRESTON
Managing Director, Canon South Africa
13 FILM AWARD NOMINATIONS. SEVEN WINS.
Rawsoot Studios is based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. As an accredited Mass Media Service Provider by the Zimbabwe Media Commission, we've established ourselves as masters of visual storytelling through photography and cinematography. Our commitment to excellence was magnificently showcased through "Neria 21," at the 2024 Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTAs) with seven prestigious wins. Neria 21 was also nominated by the Arts Council's - National Arts Merit Awards for Oustanding Feature Film in 2024. Many thanks to the support of our partners and friends who walk this journey with us. We continue to live to tell more African stories.
Inside Portfolio
Beyond awards and recognition, we are driven by a deeper purpose: to elevate Zimbabwean storytelling to new heights. Our dedication to crafting compelling narratives extends beyond our national borders, as we strive to share authentic African stories with the world. At Rawsoot Studios, we're not just making films – we're creating a legacy of storytelling excellence that bridges Zimbabwe to the global stage. Here is a look at some of our work to watch.
Rawsoot Studios • Showreel 2025
Kit Reveal 2025 • Viego Promo AD
Solusi University • 2025 Mission Promo
Neria 21 Trailer • 2024
We seek to build a framework for a self-sustaining film industry that amplifies authentic African voices and creates lasting opportunities for Zimbabwe's creative community and beyond.
FILM AND DOCUMENTARY
We believe in partnerships, collaborations and working together as a people. Our films are a result of that shared vision. Neria 21 was shot along side partners such a Canon South Africa, University of Zimbabwe, Eleven Dogs Inc. and many others. Here is look at some or our past work in filmmaking. You can also follow us and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
NERIA 21
2024 • DRAMA • 84 mins
An African woman sees her entire life and business crumble after the untimely death of her husband. She discovers her worth and finds her greatness again.
FREEDOM COMES DANCING
2024 • DRAMA • 62 mins
Mbali, a teenage dancer defies her strict grandmother, she discovers the truth behind a painful family secret—forcing her to choose between loyalty and freedom.
THULA
2024 • DRAMA • 64 mins
While both scared to live in the present, a young journalist from the city of Bulawayo and an old man's lives collide in the unforeseen.
CHASING EARTH
2025 • DOCUMENTARY • 25 mins
Rural Zimbabwe, a filmmaker traces struggles of villagers facing a devastating drought, examining indigenous knowledge and modern practices against an uncertain climate future.
FISANI
2023 • DOCUMENTARY • 18 mins
An African gospel artist from KwaZulu-Natal reflects on his journey of faith, poverty, and perseverance as he rises in Southern Africa’s gospel music scene.
EYES FOR MISSION
2025 • DOCUMENTARY • 5 mins
A visually impaired theologian breaks barriers at Zimbabwe's Solusi University, proving that faith can illuminate even the darkest paths, and teaching others to truly see.
This was amazingly put together, everyone played their part well. Watching from England and I’m so proud of my people.
YouTube Comment
Certainly the best Zimbabwe has produced so far. My people we are indeed going far despite economical difficulties. I am proud. This is a masterpiece.
YouTube Comment
YOUTUBE WEEKLY RECAP 13-27 MARCH 2024
LIKES + SHARES
VIEWERS
SUBSCRIBERS
Journey into the heart of African storytelling with us. Dive deeper into the world of Rawsoot Studios on our YouTube channel, where you'll find exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Director's commentaries, Feature films, Project highlights and showreels.
HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?
Are your suffering from low brand visibility syndrome? At Rawsoot, we are dedicated to finding ways that can better represent your brand to the global world. We are African storytellers. Transform your vision into compelling visual stories with Rawsoot Studios. As masterful African storytellers, we craft authentic narratives that elevate your brand to the global stage.
Film Production
From an award-winning feature film, to short films, music videos, co-productions, powerful documentaries, we bring stories to life with cinematic excellence and cultural authenticity.
Event Coverage
Capture the essence of your special moments with our expert lens. Whether it's a corporate gathering, cultural celebration, or private event, we preserve your memories with artistic precision.
Brand Development
Stand out in the digital age with striking visual content that speaks to your audience. Our creative team helps shape your brand's narrative through powerful imagery and strategic storytelling.
Get the Right Plan.
At Rawsoot Studios, we believe in transparent, value-driven pricing that reflects both our award-winning expertise and your unique needs. Our services are tailored to various scales and budgets:
Film Production
Short & Feature Films
Music Videos
Documentary Production Corporate Videos
TV Commercials
Event Coverage
Live Event Filming
Live Event Photography
Promotional Poster
Event Promo Videos
Video Reel (3 mins pax)
Branding
Media & Marketing Strategy
Graphic Design
Product Photography
Cooperate Photography
Marketing Videos
How to Get Your Quote?
Every story is unique, and so are our solutions. We create customized packages that combine our services to maximize your investment and achieve your vision. Contact us today to receive our comprehensive pricing catalog and discover how we can bring your vision to life while working within your budget.
Fill out our Visual Project Form.
Receive a detailed pricing catalog tailored to your needs.
Begin your storytelling journey with us.
QUICK Project Form
This questionnaire helps us understand your vision and provide you with an accurate quote. Take a few minutes to share your project details with us. Select the primary service you need. If your project requires multiple services, choose the main one and describe the full scope in the project details.
We like to see you put the best value to your budget, this helps us tailor solutions that match your resources. Select 'Flexible' if you'd like to discuss options. Now get started below.
After submission, our team will review your requirements and contact you within 24 hours to schedule a free consultation. For urgent inquiries, please contact us directly using the contact information below.
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What services does Rawsoot Studios offer?Rawsoot Studios provides comprehensive film and visual storytelling services including feature film production, documentary filmmaking, event photography, commercial production, branding content, and sound design. Our award-winning team handles everything from concept development to final delivery.
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Where is Rawsoot Studios located?We are based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. As an accredited Mass Media Service Provider by the Zimbabwe Media Commission, we work throughout Zimbabwe and are open to projects across Africa.
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How come I can't find your films on mainstream platforms?As an emerging independent film production company based in Zimbabwe, we're actively working toward securing wider distribution channels for our content. The global film distribution landscape presents unique challenges for African filmmakers, which we're navigating through strategic partnerships and industry connections. We're continuously open to co-productions and distribution partnerships that will help bring our authentic stories to international audiences. In the meantime, our complete film catalog remains accessible through our YouTube channel.
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Where can I watch Rawsoot Studios film productions?All our films, including our award-winning "Neria 21," are currently available to watch for free on our YouTube channel. Subscribe to www.youtube.com/@RawsootStudios to access our complete library of feature films, documentaries, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive interviews with cast and crew. We periodically release new content and special features, so enabling notifications ensures you won't miss our latest uploads.
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Can I work at Rawsoot Studios?While our current financial capacity limits our ability to expand our permanent team, we maintain a database of talented individuals for production-based collaborations. We encourage aspiring filmmakers to share their portfolios and reels with us for future consideration. As we secure more funding and expand our production slate, creating sustainable employment opportunities within Zimbabwe's film industry remains one of our core objectives. Feel free to submit your resume and samples for our talent database.
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How can I partner with Rawsoot Studios on film projects?We're open to co-productions, distribution partnerships, and investment opportunities. Contact us to discuss specific partnership opportunities.
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How does the project process work at Rawsoot Studios?We begin with a consultation to understand your vision, followed by a detailed proposal and quote. Once approved, we move through pre-production (planning, scripting), production (filming, photography), and post-production (editing, sound design). Throughout the process, we maintain clear communication and opportunities for feedback.
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Do you offer services for international clients or projects?Yes! We welcome international collaborations and have experience working with partners from various countries. We can provide local production support, location scouting, and full production services for projects shooting in Zimbabwe.
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What types of clients do you typically work with?We collaborate with a diverse range of clients from individuals, businesses seeking brand content, non-profit organizations, government agencies, event planners, and international production companies looking for local expertise in Zimbabwe.
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What equipment and technical capabilities does Rawsoot Studios have?As showcased on our award-winning film Neria 21, we have partnered with Canon South Africa in order to maintain professional-grade cinema equipment for high-quality production. Our team is skilled in the latest filming techniques, cinematography and post-production. We continually invest in technology to ensure our work meets international standards.
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Can I see examples of your previous work?Yes! Visit our portfolio section to view of our work. For more extensive examples or specific types of work, please contact us directly. You can also subscribe to our YouTube channel for our films, behind-the-scenes content and project highlights.
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Finding a professional film production company in Zimbabwe?Rawsoot Studios has a unique blend of authentic African storytelling, and technical excellence sets us apart. With multiple Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTAs) for "Neria 21," including Best Feature Film. We've demonstrated our ability to create compelling content that resonates with audiences while maintaining high production standards.
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I have a script. Can Rawsoot Studios produce my film?While we're passionate about discovering new stories and talented writers, our current production capacity limits our ability to fund unsolicited scripts. We welcome scripts that come with initial funding or investment partnerships.
IT'S ALL ABOUT THE STORY
A PERSONAL JOURNEY
Picture this: 1998, Dorset Primary School, rural Zimbabwe. Our classrooms were so limited that we rotated weekly between traditional indoor learning and 'open air class' —Ndebele speakers one week, Shona speakers the next. While my classmates groaned about outdoor classes under the merciless African sun, I secretly loved it. There was something magical about learning the Water Cycle, while clouds drifted overhead like daydreams. My grades occasionally drifted away too, but that's another story! During one outdoor class, our teacher asked if anyone could draw Zimbabwe's map on the board. The silence was deafening. No volunteers. No heroes.
Now, you should know I was the kid who sometimes "watered the classroom floor" rather than raise my hand to ask for a bathroom break. Public speaking? Not my thing. But something pushed me forward that day. To everyone's astonishment—including my own—I walked up and drew Zimbabwe's map from memory with surprising accuracy.
That chalk-dust moment revealed what I now understand was always there: I was a visual storyteller. We all have pivotal stories—whether personal journeys, business launches, or passion projects. At Rawsoot Studios, we're dedicated to helping you tell your story with the same clarity and visual impact that authentically represent your vision.
Ready to begin your storytelling journey? Complete our project form or subscribe to our mailing list for updates on our latest films, stories, and promotions.
Award-winning • Creative Director • Rawsoot Studios
Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards (ZAFTAs) for Best Director in 2024.
Trust Sayi
Shaped by studies in fine arts photography and visual storytelling in the Philippines, Trust Sayi infuses his work with a distinctive blend of global technique and African narrative heritage. He approaches cinematography as both an art form and a powerful medium for authentic African expression. His vision extends beyond individual projects – he's committed to elevating Zimbabwean cinema to compete on the international stage while remaining true to its cultural roots.
WE ARE FEATURED ON
YOUR STORY MATTERS
Before you go, please journey with us through the landscape of Zimbabwean cinema as documented by local and regional press. Some of our work has been featured on NewsDay, Sunday News, eNCA, NewsHawks, Chronicle, The Herald and on GreedySouth. This collection showcases Rawsoot Studios' milestones, from the star-studded premiere of "Neria 21", to our night of celebration at the Zimbabwe Annual Film and Television Awards. You'll find thoughtful interviews exploring our filmmaking journey, candid discussions about the challenges of independent filmmaking in Zimbabwe's evolving industry, and inspiring stories of community impact when our narratives reach their intended audiences. Each feature represents not just our work, but the collective resilience of Zimbabwe's film community as we navigate limited resources, infrastructure challenges, and distribution hurdles while steadfastly committed to sharing authentic African stories with the world.
Thank you for exploring Rawsoot Studios. As storytellers from Zimbabwe, we believe that every frame we create contributes to the rich tapestry of African cinema. Our journey hasn't been without challenges—but these obstacles have only strengthened our resolve and creativity. We invite you to join us on this cinematic adventure. Whether you're a potential client, collaborator, investor, or simply a lover of authentic storytelling, there's a place for you in our narrative. The stories of Africa—with their depth, vibrancy, and truth—deserve to be told with precision and passion.
From the streets of Zimbabwe to screens around the world, we're committed to crafting visual stories that resonate, inspire, and endure.
Your story matters. Let's tell it together.
With gratitude,
Rawsoot Studios Team!
GET IN TOUCH
Every brand has a unique story waiting to be told. Let's craft your narrative together. Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how we can transform your vision into reality.
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