The MultiChoice Group Talent Factory is now accepting applications for its 2026 intake, offering young Africans a fully funded pathway into the film and television industry. The 12 month programme is designed to build practical skills, create jobs and strengthen Africa’s creative economy by training aspiring filmmakers through real world production experience.
The initiative targets aspiring storytellers aged 18 to 35 who want to build sustainable careers in film and television. Training takes place in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Zambia, with the programme open to candidates from 14 African countries. Selected participants receive full training, a monthly stipend and direct exposure to the industry, removing many of the financial and access barriers that often prevent young talent from entering the sector.
At a time when Africa’s creative industries are growing but still face skills gaps and limited access to professional networks, the MultiChoice Talent Factory stands out as a long term investment in people, skills and economic opportunity.
Building Skills That Grow Africa’s Creative Economy
The core of the MultiChoice Talent Factory is its academy programme, a fully funded 12 month filmmaking course that combines theory with hands on production. Students do not just learn in classrooms. They work on real film and television projects alongside experienced professionals, gaining the confidence and discipline needed to succeed in a competitive industry.
The academies are strategically located in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Zambia to ensure regional reach and diversity. Through these hubs, the programme is accessible to young creatives from 14 African countries, helping to decentralise opportunities that are often limited to a few major cities.
The curriculum covers a wide range of film and television disciplines, including scriptwriting, cinematography, directing, production management and post production. This broad training allows students to understand the full value chain of content creation, preparing them not only as employees but also as future business owners and producers.
Upon completion, students outside South Africa receive a university accredited certificate from respected partner institutions. These include the University of Zambia, Kenyatta University in Kenya and Pan Atlantic University in Nigeria. This academic recognition adds credibility to the training and improves graduates’ chances of employment and entrepreneurship within the industry.
All course facilitators are practicing filmmakers who are well regarded in their fields. This ensures that students learn current industry standards, practical problem solving and professional ethics directly from those working in the sector today.
A Long Term Commitment to Storytelling and Opportunity
Beyond the academy, the MultiChoice Talent Factory reflects MultiChoice’s broader vision to grow Africa’s film and television industry into a strong economic sector. The goal is not only to train individuals but to build an ecosystem where African stories can thrive, create jobs and contribute to national economies.
MTF’s mission is rooted in showcasing Africa’s diversity and rich cultural heritage through authentic storytelling. By equipping young filmmakers with skills and networks, the programme helps ensure that African stories are told by Africans, for local and global audiences.
The initiative also includes MTF Masterclasses, designed for film professionals who want to upskill. These masterclasses offer access to experienced industry experts, practical insights and solutions to common industry challenges such as accessibility, opportunity and production quality. With over 30,000 registered users and a growing online library, the masterclasses extend learning beyond the academy and support continuous professional development across the continent.
Importantly, the MultiChoice Talent Factory positions its graduates as future contributors to the wider economy. By preparing students to become business owners and industry leaders, the programme supports job creation and long term sustainability within the creative sector.
For young Africans passionate about storytelling, the 2026 intake represents more than a training opportunity. It is a chance to gain real skills, earn while learning and become part of a growing movement to build Africa’s film and television industry from within.
Applications are open until February 27, and interested candidates can apply through the official MultiChoice Talent Factory platform.
