Groundglass | About

Groundglass is an original and inspired boutique production company, home to select directors. Our approach is innovative and collaborative and years of working with directors and agencies has given us the edge in the service market.

Our proactive and resourceful producers strive to establish strong relationships with clients, be they international production companies or local advertising agencies. Supported by strong, experienced production and research teams, we offer a personalised service to all our clients. Above all, we love what we do!

Janette de Villiers | Founder / Executive Producer

Janette De Villiers, founder and EP of Groundglass in Cape Town is considered one of South Africa’s top producers and a prominent industry figures, regularly serving on various boards, panels and juries around the world.

Having produced for and collaborated with various award winning South African directors, and servicing some of the world’s most renowned international directors, Janette has an exceptional knowledge of the film and advertising world

Passionate about sharing her skills with others in the industry with strong views on social responsibility and the necessity to create a sustainable advertising industry, Janette is tireless in her endeavour to uncover and develop new talent

Janette opened Groundglass 2001 as a director focused Production Company but soon expanded the business to include service production work.

Ultimately Janette is passionate about sharing her skills with others in the industry with strong views on social responsibility and the necessity to create a sustainable advertising industry, Janette is tireless in her endeavour to uncover and develop new talent.

Patricia Wheeler | Head of Production / Producer

With three decades of participation in the production landscape, Trish Wheeler stands as a seasoned Producer and recently appointed Head of Production of Groundglass, known for an array of work that resonates across diverse platforms. Her large portfolio boasts a rich tapestry of projects shot across Southern Africa. From thought-provoking documentaries and impactful television programs to dynamic films of varying lengths and genres, Trish’s expertise spans reality, fiction, and everything in between. Driven by a passion for storytelling, Trish’s mission is to create content that not only entertains but also informs and inspires. Having learned from the best in both the commercial and feature film realms, Trish has honed an unparalleled precision and work ethic that sets her apart in the industry. Known for her calm demeanour, resourcefulness, and meticulous attention to detail, she thrives even on low budgets, proving that creativity is not limited by financial constraints.

Jared Malin | Producer

As an extremely organised individual with acute attention to detail, and most importantly, the ability to hustle on small budgets and tight deadlines, there is no doubt production is in his blood. Jared has over 15 years’ experience in the film industry, after starting his career with a working holiday of freelance gigs in Toronto. He has spent the last decade honing his talents at Groundglass and is an integral part of the team, with unrivalled experience in managing strange demands and even the most difficult of clients.