The world recently celebrated World Ocean Day on Sunday, 8 June, and a remarkable South African conservation film was rightfully recognized on the global stage. “Caleb: Beyond the Bite”, produced by WILDTRUST and Love Africa Marketing, was awarded Gold at the 2025 International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) – exactly a year after its release. This prestigious accolade marks the fourth Film Festival where the film has been acknowledged.
The ITFFA Festival received an impressive 450 entries from all corners of the globe, culminating in a glamorous red carpet event at the Hotel Sky in Sandton, Johannesburg. Festival Organiser, Caroline Ungersbock, expressed her admiration for the film, stating, “This film was truly inspirational. It delivered a very strong and necessary message that resonated deeply with our judges and attendees of the film festival.”
The poignant short film chronicles the journey of para-athlete, actor, and shark bite survivor Caleb Swanepoel as he emotionally returns to the ocean to swim with sharks – the very creatures that changed the course of his life in 2015. Unlike traditional wildlife films, “Caleb: Beyond the Bite” offers a profoundly human narrative that challenges fear-driven perceptions of sharks and emphasizes their crucial role in South Africa’s marine ecosystems.
“I’m incredibly excited that the film has been recognized at the ITFFA Awards,” Swanepoel shared. “It means so much that more people around the world will now get to see the film and hopefully connect with its message. Being part of the project and a team that’s having an impact and changing the narrative around sharks is a real privilege.”
Released as part of WILDTRUST’s “Sharks Under Attack” campaign, the film aims to raise awareness about the urgent need for shark and ray conservation in South African waters. It highlights not only the emotional power of personal transformation but also the critical role of perception in shark survival.
South Africa is a hotspot for shark and ray diversity, with around 200 species inhabiting its waters. Many of these species are endemic and face threats such as habitat loss, overfishing, and public fear. The film serves as a compelling call to protect these misunderstood animals through empathy, education, and policy change.
WILDTRUST shark scientist Leigh de Necker, who appears in the film and swam alongside Caleb during his return to the sea, expressed, “Caleb gives me hope for shark conservation. If he can shift his perspective on sharks after such a traumatic experience, then there is hope for all of us to do the same.”
“Caleb: Beyond the Bite” is available for viewing online. For more information on shark and ray conservation, visit the Sharks Under Attack Campaign website and social media channels.
