MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) is pleased to welcome 60 new students for its Class of 2023 to its fully funded 12-month educational program, developing emerging TV and film talent in Africa.

The academy received thousands of applications from 13 countries in Africa, and after a rigorous selection process, 60 aspiring filmmakers have been selected to take part in the MTF’s 12-month training program that includes theory and hands-on experience in filmmaking. movies, from screenwriting to cinematography, editing, and audio post-production.

After an in-depth interview and award process by regional academy directors and industry representatives, the final candidates who were selected include 50% men and 50% women from the southern region, 40 % men and 60% women from the Western Region and a total of 55% men and 45% women will represent the Eastern Region.

MTF Academies continue to work with their regional and international partners to ensure that students receive the best level of training and practical experience necessary to hone their skills and contribute positively to the film and television industry. MTF also works with renowned local and international facilitators, such as academic Dr. Benea Shapaya, Senior Lecturer in Film and Media Studies at Kenyatta University, who will facilitate a session on the history of the film and television industry in Africa. , and 4-time SAFTA Award Winner. Writer, Producer and Director: Neil McCarthy, who is currently one of the most experienced screenwriters in the country. The show also features a high caliber of award-winning specialists from across the continent, many of whom produce content for M-Net group channels.

The top graduates from each of the three academies will be presented with the incredible opportunity to further develop their skills with various internships sponsored by MTF partner organizations such as the New York Film Academy (NYFA) and Zee World, among others. Where additional practical experience will take place to further prepare them for various sectors in the television and film industry.

“We are extremely excited about the Class of 2023 and wish them the best of luck as they begin their new journey. Film is such a wonderful art and because it is constantly evolving, this year our students will be encouraged to explore and exploit various emerging technologies that are revolutionizing the industry. I encourage the Class of 2023 to be bold and stay curious in their quest to tell African stories,” said Nwabisa Matyumza, Director of Multichoice Talent Factory for Africa.

MTF has shown continued success since its inception, honing the skills of over 120 emerging filmmakers in 13 countries across the continent, who are now part of MTF’s growing alumni network, bringing African stories to the world. The MTF Alumni class of 2022, within three months of graduation, saw 60% of their graduates already financially active in the television industry. This is a true testament to the power of training and development provided by the MTF program.