For most parents, watching their child succeed is a proud moment. For local businessman and aspiring actor. Oumesh Harisunker (48), that pride reached new heights when he and his son, Shaiyed, landed roles in the highly anticipated film: Sugar Cane Boy.

The father-son duo shared their journey through the production and described it as a memorable experience that strengthened their bond and introduced them both to the world of filmmaking.

Harisunker, a married father of two and owner of Paperhouse, a company supplying paper to the printing industry, is no stranger to the creative arts.

A music enthusiast, he has released several music videos on YouTube, including an original song titled: MAA.

His son, Shaiyed, 23, works as a hydraulics technician and is known among family and friends for his passion for vehicle modification, as well as his talent for impressions and acting.

In Sugar Cane Boy, Harisunker portrays Madhoe, a respected caretaker and mentor figure, who provides guidance to the film’s central character, Soya, throughout his childhood.

“Acting and singing have always been passions of mine, so being cast in the film was an incredible opportunity. I would have been grateful just to appear as an extra, so receiving a speaking role felt like a real blessing,” he said.

To bring Madhoe to life, Harisunker drew inspiration from his own experiences as a father and the relationship he shares with his children.

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Meanwhile, Shaiyed takes on the role of Paras Pillay, one of Soya’s closest friends. For Harisunker, seeing his son perform was one of the highlights of the production.

“I was initially asked to help coach him, but it quickly became clear that he had developed his own abilities as an actor. Watching him perform, especially during one of the action scenes, made me incredibly proud,” he said.

Although the pair never appeared together in front of the camera, they spent long days side by side on set, supporting one another throughout the filming process.

“We worked well as a team and learned so much together. Every day brought something new. We even assisted the art department, which gave us a greater appreciation for the amount of work that goes into making a film,” Harisunker shared.

The experience also strengthened an already close father-son relationship. “Shaiyed and I have always shared a strong bond, but working on the film gave us the opportunity to spend quality time together while pursuing a shared passion,” he said.

Like many independent film productions, Sugar Cane Boy came with its challenges. Long shooting days and unpredictable weather tested the cast and crew, particularly during outdoor scenes.

“There were days when we left home at four in the morning and only returned after ten at night. It was physically demanding, but the excitement of being part of the project kept everyone motivated,” Harisunker recalled.

He credited director, Rubendra Govender and the production team for their ability to adapt and overcome obstacles throughout filming.

While the film contains a variety of emotional and humorous moments, Harisunker admits that one particular action sequence stands out as his favourite.

“I might be a little biased because my son is involved, but I think audiences are really going to enjoy that scene,” he laughed.

Set against the backdrop of KwaZulu-Natal’s sugar cane communities during apartheid-era South Africa, Sugar Cane Boy explores themes of family, friendship, love, hardship and racial unity. Harisunker believes these themes will resonate strongly with audiences.

“Although the story is set in 1972, its messages of resilience, hope and humanity are still relevant today. I hope people leave the cinema remembering the importance of treating everyone equally, regardless of race or background,” he said.

The film has also opened new opportunities for Harisunker as an actor. Since completing Sugar Cane Boy, he has secured additional roles, including appearances in the YouTube series, The Couch, directed by Michelle Pillay Brown, and in Amalanga Awafani. Reflecting on the experience, Harisunker expressed gratitude to everyone who helped launch his acting journey, particularly Govender and his agent, Cassandra from Fosac Castings.

For both father and son, however, Sugar Cane Boy represents more than just another acting credit.

It is a shared milestone, a family memory, and proof that sometimes the most rewarding moments happen not only on screen, but behind the scenes as well.