At SAE Institute South Africa, we’re proud to showcase the journeys of our students. This month, we caught up with Ben Martin, a third-year film student at our Cape Town campus. With his short film gaining international recognition, Ben shares how storytelling, collaboration and life experiences are shaping his creative path.
Where did your love for film start? Was there a moment that made it clear?
My love for filmmaking started rather subconsciously. A lot of core memories from my childhood came from movies — watching with family and friends. Especially with my brother, who used to drive me to the cinema as often as he could. It all built up to a love I didn’t even know I had. Once I realised it was film, I began writing. I started with short stories to teach myself how to screenwrite. Film school couldn’t come soon enough. It became my life’s obsession — something I’ll always choose to pursue.
What kind of stories do you enjoy telling?
My storytelling approach is always evolving. I love creating high-concept premises with grounded, relatable themes. Sci-fi is a favourite because of its endless possibilities. You can heighten the stakes in a sci-fi setting while keeping the heart of the story personal. It’s a skill I’ve pledged to master — while having fun with it.
Tell us about your short film, Foreigners.
Foreigners is about loneliness. It follows a young man through a town that’s unfamiliar to him, as he searches for a star anomaly he once discovered with a loved one. Along the way, he meets a girl who claims to be an alien. Through their interaction, he reconnects with compassion and companionship. It’s a reminder of how beautiful life can be when we choose to share experiences with others — despite differences.
What inspired it?
It came from my own experience after finishing high school. That transition period can be incredibly lonely. Friends move on, and college can feel overwhelming. I wanted to show that together, things can be better. Letting new people in creates opportunities for connection and happiness.
How did it feel to receive international recognition?
It felt surreal. Seeing Foreigners selected in 10 international competitions — with two wins and an honourable mention — was incredible. It made all the effort feel truly worth it. The most rewarding part is knowing the story meant something to people.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I’m directing Lila’s Ribbon, a short film produced under a new company I started with a colleague earlier this year. We believe we can create something truly special — and contribute something fresh to the film space.
What are your plans after SAE?
My goal is to direct, but I’m also involved in other areas of production. With our company, I plan to continue creating multiple projects each year and keep building my voice as a filmmaker.
How has SAE helped you grow?
SAE has provided a space to collaborate with incredibly talented friends and colleagues. It’s a creative environment where people want the best for each other — and that support makes all the difference.
Most valuable lesson so far?
Pursue what matters to you. If something resonates with you, it will connect with others too — whether it’s through interest, questions or shared experiences.
We’re proud to support students like Ben as they learn, grow and bring their stories to life. Stay tuned for more inspiring journeys from our student community.
