At afrOkaans, the approach to collaboration and creativity breaks away from the traditional ideas of a “team” or “family” dynamic. Instead, afrOkaans refers to its employees as “the tribe,” skilled humans who make a conscious decision to collaborate with like-minded individuals to create brilliance. This distinct identity is what drives the company’s success, centered on three core pillars: Get Real, Work Hard, and Be Human. These principles define afrOkaans’ unique culture and differentiate it from other production environments.

The Tribe Mentality
In many production companies, employees are either called a “team” or even a “family.” While these terms imply a close-knit environment, they can also carry restrictive connotations. A “team” often focuses on function and roles, while a “family” implies a permanent, unconditional belonging that can blur professional boundaries. afrOkaans deliberately distances itself from these models, opting for the tribe mentality, where collaboration is a choice driven by shared values and creative synergy.

“The tribe” at afrOkaans is composed of skilled individuals who join forces voluntarily, driven by a commitment to excellence rather than obligation. Each member brings their unique talents, but it’s the shared decision to come together that fosters a culture of creativity, accountability, and drive. It’s a dynamic system of collaboration, where all-in effort is the expectation, and the goal is to create brilliance rather than simply achieve “good enough” results​.

Pillar 1: Get Real
At the heart of the afrOkaans culture is the idea of authenticity, captured in the principle Get Real. This value prioritizes honesty, transparency, and perspective, essential for keeping the drama where it belongs — on screen. While the world of television production can be rife with emotional highs and unpredictable moments, afrOkaans ensures that personal dynamics remain grounded. The tribe operates on trust, confronting challenges head-on with integrity and clear communication.

Get Real also speaks to afrOkaans’ commitment to staying true to their creative vision. They reject superficiality and short-term fixes in favor of meaningful work that resonates deeply with their audience. This authenticity ensures that the stories told are not just entertaining but impactful and relevant.

Pillar 2: Work Hard
At afrOkaans, the expectation of excellence is non-negotiable. Work Hard is a fundamental principle that embodies the tribe’s collective drive. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about showing up with intention, energy, and a commitment to creating brilliance. There is no room for mediocrity, and the tribe pushes beyond “good enough” to achieve extraordinary results.

The tribe mentality emphasizes that this hard work isn’t a solitary effort. Each member plays a critical role, pulling together to create something that none could achieve alone. It’s a culture of collaboration, where the expectation is that everyone contributes their best — not because they have to, but because they want to. As afrOkaans puts it, “Enough with good enough!”​

Pillar 3: Be Human
Despite the drive for excellence, afrOkaans never loses sight of the humanity within its tribe. Be Human reflects a deep understanding that people are complex, multifaceted, and sometimes imperfect, but they deserve empathy, trust, and respect. This principle ensures that while the tribe works hard, it also remains grounded in compassion and mutual support.

In a fast-paced industry like television, it’s easy to overlook the human element, but afrOkaans makes it a priority. The tribe approach allows for flexibility and understanding, fostering an environment where people can be their true selves and thrive both personally and professionally. This empathy for the human experience enhances creativity and encourages a more meaningful connection to the work being produced.

Why afrOkaans Thrives
The tribe approach is not just a catchy phrase but a deliberate framework that afrOkaans uses to create a vibrant, productive, and cohesive work environment. By prioritising authenticity (Get Real), effort (Work Hard), and empathy (Be Human), afrOkaans maintains a space where creativity flourishes. It is an environment where individuals choose to come together, united by shared values and a passion for creating something extraordinary.

Unlike a team that may rely on defined roles or a family that depends on emotional ties, afrOkaans’ tribe is fluid and dynamic. Members are not bound by rigid structures but are free to collaborate, innovate, and grow together. This intentional tribe mentality drives afrOkaans’ success, making it a distinctive force in the television production landscape.