THOUGHTFUL ORIGINALITY
our story
WHO WE ARE
We are a Johannesburg-based creative studio where visionary storytelling meets professional craft. Founded in 2015, we came into our own in 2019, when three productions—Dima, Undelivered, and Naledi—set us on our journey. After ten years, in 2025, we expanded our family with tsi Institute, a dedicated training division designed to cultivate tomorrow’s screenwriters and more.
Why "solo intellect"?
Our name is inspired by our founder’s personality archetype in Sally Hogshead’s How the World Sees You (2014)*, where The Secret Weapon (a profile blending Mystery and Innovation) resonated with our creative ethos. Its descriptor, Solo Intellect, reflects our commitment to bold, independent thinking. This spirit lives in our logo: an African goddess bust, trademarked as a symbol of stories waiting to be set free.
*(Note: “How the World Sees You” and “The Secret Weapon” are properties of Sally Hogshead). (Used here for contextual reference.)
mission
To create emotionally engaging content that would appeal to an audience looking for distinctive entertainment.
how we create
Substance over style. Sophistication made accessible. We’re driven by constant self-improvement, a relentless work ethic, and deep respect for our audience’s needs. As luminaries and solo intellects, we champion thoughtful originality. Stories that resonate long after the credits roll.
purpose
To empower writers with the skills, industry knowledge, and creative confidence needed to transform their abilities into professional success
how we train
- Interactive workshops and personalised feedback: hands-on learning tailored to your voice
- Practical pathways: We help you create scripts that stand out.
- Future-ready training: Soon integrating production elements, bridging storytelling with real-world execution
how we work
Our work is powered by a close-knit collective of independent creatives, collaborators bound by the craft and shared vision. We work across productions and the institute, adapting to the needs of each project while staying grounded in purpose. While our titles shift, our commitment to original storytelling and meaningful skill-building remains the same. Our structure is a little unconventional, and that’s the whole point. It’s collaborative by design, driven by mutual respect, and shaped by over a decade of working and growing together.
Theoline Maphutha
Founder, Filmmaker
Project Manager, Instructor
Mmule Maphutha
Performer, Make-Up, Costume, Art
Training Manager
Lehlogonolo Maphutha
Composer, Sound, DOP, Animator
Video Production Manager
Tebogo Laka
VFX, DOP, Performer
Technical Manager