Tokai actress turned film-maker and project manager, Samantha Brink, 45, has taken over the reins of Touched By Style, a performing arts group.

The community arts group, which started in Delft more than five years ago, will now move its base to Tokai.

Production for the group's latest project, Silent Shame, began earlier this month.

Silent Shame delves into domestic violence and mental health through the experience of James, who dedicates himself to fulfilling his role as a husband and father until he learns his abusive and unfaithful wife is misusing their funds to support her drinking and partying lifestyle.

“This revelation forces James to confront the challenge of preserving his mental health and regaining stability during this tumultuous period in his life,” says Brink, who is overseeing the production as project manager.

"When considering gender-based violence, our thoughts often gravitate towards the abuse of women and children. However, this film is rooted in how this real-life issue affects men too. It aims to highlight narratives that resonate with differing experiences and address traumatic realities of not only women and children but also of the struggles faced by men dealing with abuse, depression, and the stigma associated with domestic violence.“

The mother of two began her career with a role in the television series, Suidooster, and later appeared in Trompoppie. In 2023, she played her first action role with the Touched By Style group, as the assassin in The Bitter Rise of the Ringmaster. She later starred in the group’s psychological thriller, Stress, as well as the fantasy action films, Death Angel and Uncle Billy, she debuted as a director in Uncle Billy.

Stepping into her new role as project manager in December last year, Brink says she plans on steering the arts programme towards a more family-oriented direction. She has taken over from Nic Matthee, who led the group as project manager and director for four years.

“Nic showed an exemplary skill in graphic action film-making, storytelling and make-up artistry that has garnered respect as an example of the talent available within our own communities,” says Brink.

Matthee says Brink has made a “substantial impact” on the film industry in the three years she has been part of it by “inspiring young individuals to transcend limitations and enhance their skills in pursuit of a successful career that contributes positively to their communities”.

He adds: “She advocates for the importance of engaging in educational programmes and embracing challenges as a means to foster personal growth and achieve success and I have full faith I leave the programme in very capable hands.”

Silent Shame will premiere on the Touched By Style Community Arts YouTube channel on Saturday August 9. For more information on future projects, contact Brink at 074 861 5523.

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Local film looks at domestic violence against men