Former 7de Laan actress Diaan Lawrenson has been named the new CEO of the film school AFDA, marking a major milestone in her long-running career in South African entertainment.
The appointment, set to begin in January 2025, follows her five-and-a-half-year role as dean of AFDA Cape Town, reports The Citizen.
Lawrenson’s journey in the entertainment industry began in the early 2000s with minor roles in television series like Egoli and Song vir Katryn.
Her breakthrough came with the soap opera 7de Laan, where she played Paula van der Leque from 2008 to 2016. During this period, she garnered critical acclaim, winning the YOU Spectacular Award for Best Actress in 2010 and 2013, and the ATKV Feather Award for Best Actress in 2009.
Beyond acting, Lawrenson has established herself as a multifaceted creative professional. She is a co-owner of Jester Productions and has been involved in filmmaking, writing, and producing for more than a decade.
In 2015, she wrote and produced the short film Hartloop, and has appeared in critically acclaimed movies such as Mooirivier, Sink, and Raaiselkind.
Her transition to education began in 2016 when she started lecturing at AFDA Cape Town, later becoming the campus dean in 2019.
Speaking about her appointment in an interview with TshisaLive she said: “I have had the privilege of serving as the dean of Afda Cape Town for the past five-and-a -half years, an experience that has provided me with invaluable insights into every facet of Afda’s operations,” she said.
“This role has not only deepened my understanding of the institution’s diverse functions but has also equipped me with the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully at a strategic level. As I step into the role of CEO, I am eager to continue expanding my expertise in these areas while applying the lessons learnt to guide Afda’s future.”
Compiled by Women & Home team
Also see: Fans call for 7de Laan’s return after seeing success at Royal Soapie Awards | Bona Magazine
