THE first instalment of popular e.tv series eKasie Our Stories, which first screened in 2009, made a big impression on TV audiences who easily identified with the content of this drama series.

This year e.tv has followed that up with a third instalment of eKasie, which aired at the beginning of October.

Two emerging producers Lodi Matsetela and Makgano Mamabolo, have made history in this series as they have been appointed executive producers of the new series, gaining a lot of behind-the-scenes skills in television production such as controlling budgets, arranging shoots, booking studios and making sure that the right actors and scriptwriters are recruited to accomplish this tough job.

Speaking to Sowetan, Matsetela said the challenges were huge, opportunities to learn were abundant and budgetary constraints were a big feature to consider.

"We had to beg crew members to work for very little, and remind them of their passion for this industry. We begged suppliers to give us discounts, all in the name of growing the industry.

"We begged the cast to give us their best performances and not think too hard about how little they are getting paid.

"We borrowed carpets, cars, props and clothing from our homes, loved ones, crew, cast and even strangers.

"We do all of this because we have a passion for storytelling.

"We have no regrets. Every hurdle teaches you to jump higher. Becoming a better producer is learning to work with very little and making something out of it," Matsetela said .

She added that working with e.tv had been the most empowering process that they had ever had as producers.

"This is because e.tv trusts the people they contract to deliver, and we were out to prove ourselves and wanted to make sure we didn't let them down." Matsetela, together with Mamabolo, co-owns Puopha Productions.

They have had great success with the SABC production Society, and have written scripts for Rhythm City and Scandal!

Lodi Matsetela has developed scripts for all 26 scripts for the new eKasi series.