Kim Jayde Reflects on Content Creation Journey
The creator discusses the development and financing of her series Kickin' It with Kim Jayde following award losses.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Urban
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After missing out on two Content Creator Awards nominations, producer Kim Jayde has shared insights into the growth of her self-funded series, Kickin' It with Kim Jayde. The show has expanded from a modest grassroots project into an international programme reaching viewers across 52 countries.
Why it matters
The series highlights the challenges and achievements of independent production, as Jayde managed the entire creative process without external sponsors. Her work illustrates the potential for independent South African content to gain official recognition at international platforms like the Diversity in Cannes Film Festival.
The latest season of the series required a production budget exceeding R900,000, a significant increase from the original R10,000 budget used six years ago. The show is now licensed to Bravo Africa on DStv and reaches audiences across 52 countries.
The players
Kim Jayde
She is an independent content creator who produced, directed, and hosted the series Kickin' It with Kim Jayde.
Bravo Africa
This is a television channel on the DStv platform that has licensed the series for broadcast.
The details
Kim Jayde personally financed, produced, directed, scripted, and hosted the series, which features filming in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, New York, and Los Angeles. Despite the recent award losses, the show maintains a significant presence on television and global streaming platforms.
Timeline
The series was created in 2020.
The article was published on 20 October 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The trajectory of this series reflects the shifting landscape of independent production where creators leverage global festival recognition to secure distribution. This model mirrors broader industry trends where self-funded content competes directly with major studio-backed productions in the streaming market.
Viewers can access the content through the licensed broadcast on Bravo Africa on DStv. Fans may follow the series as it continues to expand its reach across 52 countries.
The takeaway
Jayde's experience serves as a case study in the viability of self-financed production models in the digital age. It demonstrates that independent creators can achieve international distribution and festival acclaim through persistent, personal investment.
Further reading
For more context on the local creator economy, read the South Africa Urban section.
Live Poll
Is personal satisfaction in your work more important than receiving external awards or professional recognition?
