A powerful South African short film, Caleb: Beyond the Bite, has captured global attention by winning Gold at the 2025 International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA), held on World Ocean Day. The festival, which drew over 450 entries worldwide, culminated in a prestigious awards ceremony at the Hotel Sky in Sandton, Johannesburg, recognizing the film’s compelling message and cinematic excellence.
Produced by Wildtrust in partnership with Love Africa Marketing, Caleb: Beyond the Bite was released just a year ago and has already been honoured by four different festivals. The film follows para-athlete, actor, and shark bite survivor Caleb Swanepoel as he bravely returns to the ocean, swimming once again with sharks—the very creatures that irrevocably altered his life after a 2015 attack.
More than a typical wildlife movie, the film delivers a deeply human story that confronts widespread fears about sharks, while emphasizing their vital role in South Africa’s marine ecosystem. “This film was truly inspirational. It delivered a very strong and necessary message that resonated deeply with our judges and attendees,” said Caroline Ungersbock, ITFFA Festival Organiser.
Caleb: Beyond the Bite is part of Wildtrust’s Sharks Under Attack campaign, aiming to raise urgent awareness about shark and ray conservation in South African waters. Home to approximately 200 shark and ray species, many endangered by habitat loss and overfishing, South Africa remains a critical hotspot for marine biodiversity.
The film highlights how public perception significantly impacts species survival, advocating for empathy, education, and policy reform to protect these misunderstood creatures. “If Caleb can shift his perspective on sharks after such a traumatic experience, there is hope for all of us,” stated Wildtrust shark scientist Leigh de Necker, who also appears in the movie.
