Our Team
Not just a fireworks company; A culturally and creatively diverse family of individual experts. Collaborating to achieve excellence, and produce perfection, at every moment. Started in 1996, FFA has steadily grown with the demand for quality fireworks and pyrotechnics shows in South Africa. Once we were established on our home soil, we began to receive enquiries from the rest of Africa, before branching out to a worldwide audience.
Whether on land or in the air – we make things spectacular!
We have mastered our trade and pride ourselves on helping our clients to decide on a display strategy, while we design an event to dazzle them (whether large or small) and execute their performances efficiently and within budget. Operating from our 10 acre facility in Muldersdrift, Johannesburg, we utilise only the highest quality, locally manufactured and imported fireworks, pyrotechnics and confetti. Our expertly skilled technicians all have international experience and always make safety a paramount concern, as our flawless safety record proves. We believe in creativity, attention to detail and surgical precision when staging any event. As South Africa’s most awarded display operator, we are the nationwide leader in the Fireworks Display Industry.
Nick Mitri
Nick Mitri boasts an illustrious 30-year career in the fireworks industry, marked by exceptional achievements and global recognition. Representing South Africa, he has clinched victory in nine international competitions, showcasing his mastery in countries including Italy, the UK, Belgium, RSA, and Canada. Renowned as a leader in his field, Nick has twice represented South Africa at the prestigious L’International Des Feux Loto-Quebec in Montreal, the pinnacle of fireworks excellence. His expertise has graced iconic events such as the FIFA 2010 World Cup, where he orchestrated captivating displays for both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, leaving an indelible mark on spectators worldwide. Nick’s passion for pyrotechnics knows no bounds, having illuminated the skies in over 30 countries, from Angola to Zimbabwe, with his awe-inspiring creations. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, he continues to push the boundaries of innovation, crafting unforgettable moments that enchant audiences across the globe. Nick now lives in Australia and heads up Skylighter Fireworks, Drone Shows Australia, and Wedding Fireworks Queensland.
Pat Malele
Based in Johannesburg, Pat, our assistant warehouse manager started at FFA a mere 6 months ago, however he has certainly proved to be a valuable cog on the FFA wheel. Pat handles everything from making sure that our equipment is always up to scratch and working effectively in order for us to continue to create awe inspiring displays to assisting on site with event set ups. Some of Pat’s most memorable moments thus far include the T20 Cricket and the Hey Neighbour Music Festival. Pat has been in the live events industry for roughly 25 years and comes with a wealth of knowledge associated with both warehouse and events.
Landy Yeatman
Landy is the FFA Operations Manager based in Johannesburg. She entered the events industry in 2006 and since joining the FFA Team, she has become the go-to person that handles the overall management of all FFA events from conception to execution. Her organisational skills are unmatched and, as one of the longest running females in the Technical Events space, she has become quite an asset. Her vast knowledge of all facets of the events industry that she has cultivated over the years has made her a powerhouse and a pivotal part of the FFA Family.
Reece Pylman
Reece is a FFA Assistant Technician based in Johannesburg, and he has been in the pyrotechnics industry for 7 years. Reece oversees all stock which enters and leaves our warehouse and when he is out on site, you will find him assisting our head technicians while carefully curating firing queues to music. Reece’s biggest achievements thus far has been gaining knowledge on how to program flames and he is most proud of operating a show. The sky is the limit for Reece.
Jimmy Motswadireng
Jimmy is a Head Technician, based at our Johannesburg branch, and has been in the industry for 15 years. He has travelled to various countries such as Portugal, Nigeria, and Swaziland to name a few. Some of his proudest moments was flying to Vietnam and Portugal where he competed in pyrotechnics competitions. Jimmy is an integral part of the FFA and prides himself on happy clients and delivering mind-blowing experiences.
Gladwin Soutter
Gladwin is a Head Pyrotechnics Technician based at our Johannesburg Branch and he has been in the Live Events industry for 29 years. He is a visionary when it comes to Pyrotechnics display, and you will either find him conceptualising and programming the next event, or on site creating magical moments and breathtaking displays. He has travelled the world to countries such as Australia and Macau for events taken part in amazing pyrotechnics competitions. He is passionate about creating happiness through pyrotechnics.
We are constantly looking for new talent to join our team! If you think you have what it takes, please send us and email and get in touch! Let’s get the ball rolling!
