And, action!

"At T.O.M, we want to produce content where values match international standards, but have a distinctly local flavour. This identity is a reflection of our dynamic and diverse African heritage, our painful past and the celebration of our present and future political and cultural landscape. In all our programmes, we seek to reflect South Africa as a country that is part of a great and vibrant continent," says Kgomotso.

What were some of the challenges you faced as a start-up company in a small industry?
The contracting process is unnecessarily laborious and very unfriendly to producers. In the first two years, there were months where the company had no income. Still, we persevered by keeping our overheads low, pitching for projects and making personal and professional sacrifices. Ultimately we did not want to be perpetual employees for other companies, so we had no choice but to succeed. Most importantly, our partnership held us in good stead. We're all dynamic individuals and together we make up an exceptional team. I'm grateful to have the best partners in the industry ever.

To what extent does T.O.M believe in experimental content?
We are passionate about experimental content. South African audiences are more sophisticated than they are given credit for and they appreciate change and innovation. We are constantly pushing the boundaries and playing with new concepts and formats. That is what has distinguished us from the rest.

Who did your Emmy-nominated programme Sorted appeal to?
Sorted appealed to the diverse people in South Africa. It's different from anything that has ever been on local screens and is irreverent and daring. The last thing we wanted was to come up with "yet another" sitcom. Fortunately, some really forward-thinking programmers recognised the genius of Sorted and we were on air.

What do you think the Emmy nomination meant for T.O.M? Will it let the company break into the international market?
We hoped the nomination would give the company much needed credibility internationally. When we attended the Emmy Awards ceremony in New York, we maximised on the contacts we made there.

What will the new satellite stations in South Africa offer the industry and audiences?
The new companies will hopefully offer producers more platforms to showcase their work at competitive rates. We also hope it will make broadcasters more competitive, so that really great content is shown, rather than the "take it or leave it" mentality that seems to prevail right now.

What is T.O.M's next big project? An adaptation of In The Shadow Of A Saint, Ken Saro Wiwa Junior's book about his father, Ken Saro Wiwa. Also, a feature film, Love, Jozi; shooting the next series of our sitcom, Nomzamo; scripting A Place Called Home, and lastly, a late-night talk show that I will host.

Read Kgomotso Matsunyane's column on www.news24.com every Thursday.