MULTICHOICE TALENT FACTORY: NURTURING AFRICA’S CINEMATIC FUTURE THROUGH YOUTH SUPPORT
In Africa’s vibrant film industry, the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) stands as a beacon of transformation, empowering the continent's youth and ushering in a new era of storytelling. As the Corporate Social Investment (CSI) arm of MultiChoice, MTF is dedicated to nurturing local talent, providing skills, and creating opportunities for the next generation of African filmmakers.
Filmmakers across the continent applaud MTF for its unwavering commitment to youth development, recognizing its influence beyond individual nations. Through its flagship Academy program, MTF has empowered a cadre of young African filmmakers with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete on a global scale. Graduates of the program not only bring technical expertise to the table but also a newfound passion for sharing authentic African narratives.
MTF serves as a prime institution where young film creatives can hone their skills in a one-year fully sponsored program. Since its inception in 2018, MTF has nurtured and produced over 220 talents across the African continent. Collaborating with renowned organizations such as the New York Film Academy, Lights, Camera, Diaspora! Zee World Channel, and the University of Zambia, these partnerships have positioned MTF as a premier provider of media and technology training in Africa, further enhancing its positive role in growing the continent’s creative industries.
In a continent where cultural diversity is a source of pride, MTF's commitment to nurturing local talent aligns with the vision for a vibrant and inclusive creative sector.
The impact goes beyond the individual filmmaker; it ripples through communities, contributing to a cultural renaissance that celebrates Africa's rich heritage.
In Zambia's dynamic film industry, MTF emerges as a catalyst for change, empowering the nation's youth and fostering a new era of storytelling.
To reiterate the impact of MTF, speaking at the MTF 2023 graduation on behalf of the Minister of Education, Douglas Siakalima, Mr. Ngosa Kotati, Director in the ministry, expressed pride in MTF, stating, 'I’m proud to say that the Multichoice Talent Factory fulfills so many aspirations already: it is providing technical and vocational skills; it is providing entrepreneurial skills; it is providing mentorship, and it is supporting our youth in the most incredible way.'
The MTF Academy recently launched the ‘Expansion Program,’ aiming to broaden its skills development offerings through practical, industry expert-led workshops beyond its academies. This program provides local broadcasters, as well as film and television professionals, the opportunity to learn and enhance their filmmaking abilities.
The Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) and the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) were the first two institutions to benefit from this initiative, covering both the technical and administrative aspects of television broadcasting. During the training, MTF also donated two production toolboxes to support the engineering teams in maintaining their equipment. Currently, Zambian students from the MTF Class of 2023 are undergoing a 3-month internship at ZNBC, further solidifying the partnership between ZNBC and MTF.
Regarding the 3-month internship at ZNBC, Julius Museteka, who emerged as one of the top students and earned a scholarship to study in the acclaimed Indian film industry, 'Bollywood,' said, “I am very happy about the internship with ZNBC. I grew up watching ZNBC, and to be working here through the internship is such an honour, and I know I will learn a lot.
The MultiChoice Talent Factory's transformative impact on Africa's and Zambia's youth is indeed shaping the continent's and the nation's cinematic future. As African and Zambian filmmakers continue to find their voice and tell stories that resonate with global audiences, MTF stands as a cornerstone in this remarkable journey, fostering a legacy that promises to endure for generations to come.