MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) continues to be one of Africa’s most influential platforms for young filmmakers, combining technical education, mentorship, and real-world experience to raise the quality of film and television production across the continent. The academy is now accepting applications for its 2025 programme, offering 60 aspiring creatives the chance to join a 12-month curriculum designed to transform raw talent into industry-ready professionals. Applications are open to candidates from 13 African countries, with the deadline set at 17:00 SAST on June 30.
Application Process and Eligibility
MTF invites applications from Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Malawi, Angola, and Mozambique. Eligible candidates must have either hands-on industry experience or a post-school qualification in film or television. Applicants are selected based on their potential to contribute to Africa’s creative economy and their passion for storytelling.
Structure of the MTF Programme
The academy runs as an intensive 12-month programme that combines practical training with industry exposure. Participants attend technical masterclasses, receive mentorship from seasoned professionals, and work on collaborative film projects. The curriculum covers areas such as:
- Screenwriting and storytelling
- Cinematography and directing
- Post-production and editing
- Sound design and music scoring
- Producing and distribution strategies
Industry Partnerships and Support
MTF collaborates with global and regional partners, including Dolby, CBS Justice, and Jasco Broadcast Solutions. These partnerships ensure students are trained with world-class equipment and have access to the latest trends in film technology.
| Key Component | Benefit for Students |
| Masterclasses | Exposure to leading industry experts |
| Hands-on Training | Practical experience in film sets |
| International Partners | Access to modern tools and tech |
| Scholarships | Study opportunities abroad |
Scholarships and International Opportunities
Each year, the top-performing student from each region earns a prestigious scholarship from the New York Film Academy of Visual & Performing Arts. This opportunity allows participants to deepen their expertise in an international environment and return with skills that raise the overall level of African film production.
Milestones Since Launch
Since its inception in May 2018, the MTF Academy has trained 120 students who have gone on to work in television, advertising, and independent film production. Many alumni now occupy key roles in studios and media houses across the continent, proving the programme’s success in building careers.
Overcoming the Pandemic Challenge
MTF successfully navigated the disruption caused by Covid-19, continuing its curriculum through online learning and remote collaboration tools. Cheryl Uys-Allie, the programme’s director, acknowledged the resilience of both students and partners, highlighting how this period demonstrated the academy’s commitment to its mission.
Colours of Africa: Celebrating Local Stories
One of MTF’s standout achievements is the Colours of Africa film series, a collection of 16 short films created by the class of 2020. These works showcase the richness of African culture and history, with each short film produced in its country of origin. Titles include Egna (Ethiopia), Rebirth (Kenya), Kegumbo Okegumbo (Namibia), and Bride Untangled (Nigeria). The films aired on DStv’s AfroCinema channel, GOtv, and Showmax, reaching millions of viewers.
Leadership and Vision
Atinuke Ngozi Babatunde, appointed as MTF Academy director, brings over two decades of experience in media management and content strategy. Her leadership focuses on ensuring that participants receive world-class training and that MTF remains a driver of cultural representation on African screens.
Expanding Through New Training Initiatives
Under the guidance of MultiChoice Africa CEO Fhulufhelo Badugela, MTF has introduced new initiatives, including online courses and advanced modules in 3D animation, sound engineering, and cinematography. These programmes aim to increase the number of skilled professionals across the continent, boosting job creation and supporting new production ventures.
Masterclass Series with Industry Veterans
The MTF in Focus series, hosted by South African filmmaker Ken Kaplan, provides in-depth conversations with creatives such as Akin Omotoso (Nigeria) and Michael Cross (South Africa). These sessions allow students to engage directly with industry veterans, gaining insights into storytelling techniques, production challenges, and audience engagement strategies.
Building Africa’s Creative Economy
MultiChoice sees MTF as more than just a training scheme; it is a key investment in Africa’s creative economy. By equipping young talent with technical expertise, the initiative increases the quality and quantity of local productions, which in turn drives audience engagement, advertising revenue, and cultural pride.
Call to Action for Aspiring Filmmakers
If you are a filmmaker or media graduate eager to shape the future of African storytelling, this is your opportunity to join a network of creatives who are redefining the industry. Submit your application before the deadline, prepare to learn from some of the best in the business, and take your place in Africa’s next generation of film professionals.
Alumni Success Stories
Graduates of the MultiChoice Talent Factory have gone on to produce award-winning films, create independent production companies, and work with leading broadcasters. For example, Kenyan alumnus Brian Otieno launched a documentary series on local entrepreneurs that now streams on Showmax, while Namibian graduate Anna Sheehama became a sought-after cinematographer for both television and commercial projects. These examples show how the programme not only builds technical ability but also encourages entrepreneurship.
Contribution to Job Creation
A major outcome of MTF’s work is the stimulation of employment within the film and television industry. By training skilled directors, producers, and editors, the programme contributes to new job opportunities across the production pipeline — from set designers and sound technicians to marketing and distribution teams. This ripple effect supports local economies and makes media production a sustainable career choice.
The Role of Technology in Training
Modern film production relies heavily on technology, and MTF ensures students are trained on the latest equipment. Editing software, sound design suites, and 3D animation tools are part of the daily curriculum. This practical exposure allows graduates to walk into professional studios with confidence, ready to deliver content that meets international broadcast standards.
Addressing the Demand for Local Content
African audiences are increasingly seeking stories that reflect their cultures, languages, and realities. MTF is strategically aligned with this demand by equipping creators to produce content that is relevant and relatable. This focus strengthens the bond between local broadcasters and their viewers, increasing ratings and building loyalty.
Community and Networking Opportunities
One of the most valuable aspects of MTF is the network participants build. Students work closely with peers from other African countries, creating cross-border collaborations that lead to joint film projects. Alumni remain connected through online forums and events, forming a continent-wide community of creative professionals.
Why Aspiring Filmmakers Should Apply
Joining MTF is more than just enrolling in a training programme — it is an entry point into Africa’s professional film and television ecosystem. Applicants gain:
- Mentorship from top industry figures
- Access to cutting-edge equipment and studios
- Opportunities to showcase work on DStv, GOtv, and Showmax
- A strong professional network that continues after graduation
Timeline and Application Deadlines
Interested candidates must submit their applications before June 30 at 17:00 SAST. The selection process involves a review of portfolios, interviews, and, in some cases, practical exercises. Selected students are notified well in advance to prepare for relocation if required.
Future Outlook for African Filmmaking
As streaming platforms expand across Africa, the demand for local content is projected to rise significantly in the next five years. Programmes like MTF ensure that there will be enough skilled professionals to meet this demand. MultiChoice is expected to invest further in regional academies, new scholarships, and technical upgrades to keep pace with global industry standards.