The current group of students at the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Academies in Lagos, Nairobi, and Lusaka have already begun their acade...
The current group of students at the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Academies in Lagos, Nairobi, and Lusaka have already begun their academic year, marking the newest set of hopeful filmmakers to go through Africa's leading film and TV training institution.
Their program includes academic studies and online education, along with real-world practical experience in production methods like video recording, editing, audio creation, scriptwriting, production management, and direction.
This thorough method guarantees that graduates are prepared for employment, able to join the workforce or launch their own businesses, thereby supporting the development of Africa's growing film industry.
By launching programs aimed at developing professionals who can create content that connects with local and regional viewers, MTF supports increased income for broadcasters, streaming services, and independent creators, while also decreasing dependence on foreign entertainment.
Sustaining economic value
MTF Academies have demonstrated their financial value by preparing the upcoming generation of film experts who fuel industry progress and business ventures. Graduates of MTF often achieve recognition at film festivals, with their projects showcased on MultiChoice platforms, providing revenue for both artists and the platforms. This achievement leads to wider economic advantages, including higher job opportunities for film crews, assistance to local suppliers during filming, and the creation of small enterprises in post-production and distribution.
Alumni from West Africa, for example, have produced movies such asGrown, directed by Empress Blessing Allen and Ola Jegede; andHer Dark Past, directed by Oluwatobi Deborah Ahmed and Samuel Oluwasegun Ogundeyi, has been broadcast on Africa Magic, attracting viewers and advertising income while offering financial opportunities for the cast and crew.
Recently, writer MTF alumnus Gabriel Odigiri has moved on to collaborate onOmera and Wingsfor Africa Magic and Showmax. Assistant director, production manager, and producer Omoteniola Oyelumade has been involved in Leaked, Irora, Guess Who and Dear Future Mefor services such as Africa Magic and Showmax.
Meanwhile, in Southern Africa, graduates of MTF have achieved success working on top-tier productions aired on national networks. Notable alumni include writer/director/producer Muchemwa Sinkala, production designer Beatus Ble Msamange, and editor Chisomo Kawaga. In East Africa,Full Time Husband, directed by Habtamu S Mekonen and Juif Joseph, andSomewhere in Kole, directed by Lynn Gitau and Edgar Hudson, were featured on Maisha Magic Plus and Maisha Magic East.
AMVCA-nominated works like Mvamizi, created by MTF graduates Wilson Nkya and Philipo Ngonyani, and Frida, directed by Nkya and Jane Moshi, in categories like Best Indigenous Language: Swahili and Best Movie East Africa highlight how MTF supports content that connects culturally and financially.
The standard of work created by MTF graduates highlights the expertise developed through the program, as well as its emphasis on genuine local narratives. These stories breathe life into the projects, connecting strongly with viewers due to their reflection of the real-life experiences, customs, and hopes of African communities. MultiChoice acknowledges this ability and cultural significance. By commissioning the works of alumni on channels such as DStv and Showmax, it supports local talent and matches what viewers are eager to watch.
The future of African cinema
Movies with MTF graduates from Ghana, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya have received notable awards, including Egna's Best International Award at the Kalasha International Film Festival in Nairobi and Wavamizi's Chairman's Award at the Zanzibar International Film Festival. These honors provide access to funding, endorsements, and worldwide distribution agreements, increasing financial benefits.
MTF graduates excel across the continent as directors, producers, sound designers, camera operators, art directors, and editors on high-profile projects. Several launch their own ventures, establishing production companies, sound studios, and film service businesses that generate more employment opportunities and boost local supply chains—ranging from equipment hiring to food services during filming.
The MTF initiative keeps developing talent, highlighting genuine African voices, and encouraging the creation of highly localized content that connects with viewers. It reinforces its position as a vital element of economic and cultural empowerment, guaranteeing that the continent's film industry flourishes for many years ahead; and individuals witness their lives and cultures portrayed on screen.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).
