MultiChoice Talent Factory: Empowering Southern Africa's Film Industry

In the dynamic world of African cinema, Southern Africa has emerged as a thriving hub for creativity and talent.

African film academies across the continent have stepped up to train the next wave of African filmmakers in response to the increasingly hungry market for films produced on and about the continent.

In the heart of Africa, where vibrant cultures and diverse landscapes provide an abundance of storytelling material, the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) has emerged as a beacon of hope for aspiring African storytellers. MultiChoice, a name synonymous with entertainment across the continent, has gone above and beyond to invest in local content and talent through MTF. This initiative not only fosters Africa's growth but also multiplies its impact in the markets it operates in.

MTF's Pivotal Role in Southern Africa

Renowned for its steadfast commitment to nurturing African talent, MTF has played a pivotal role in transforming the film industry in this part of the continent.

As of March 2023, MTF's influence extends even further as it takes on a critical role within the Zambia National Film Commission (ZNFC) committee, providing guidance on key industry needs. The establishment of the Zambia National Film Commission marks a significant turning point for the Zambian film industry, and MTF's involvement is poised to shape its future.

"Relationships and partnerships are at the heart of the MTF shared initiative. This is why as an organization, MultiChoice is committed to collaborating with key industry stakeholders such as film commissions and boards, regulators, industry policymakers, and the industry creatives themselves so that we can then retrofit that to the MTF Academy curriculum and so that the fruits of the MTF Academy can, through its candidates, holistically contribute to the needs of the industry," said Christopher Puta, MTF Academy Director for Southern Africa.

Empowering the Workforce: MTF's Comprehensive Training

In June 2023, MTF Southern took a proactive step towards bolstering the local film industry by conducting a comprehensive training program. A total of 149 employees from the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) and 9 from the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) received specialised training in various aspects of the film and television industry.

Investing in the Future: Equipment Donation

This training initiative was a testament to MTF's commitment to empowering the industry from within. It recognized the need for a skilled workforce to meet the growing demands of the ever-evolving film landscape. MTF's investment didn't stop at training alone; it extended to the donation of two production toolboxes to support the Engineering teams in maintaining equipment.

Victor's Success Story: From MTF to Entrepreneurship

July 2023 brought forth yet another inspiring success story from MTF's Class of 2022. Victor, a sponsorship winner, successfully concluded his 8-week program sponsored by the prestigious New York Film Academy (NYFA). Victor's remarkable achievement was reflected in his outstanding A grade, a testament to his dedication and commitment to honing his skills.

Grey Room Studios: A Testament to MTF's Empowerment

Victor's journey, however, doesn't end with academic success. He has taken a bold step forward in contributing to the growth of the Southern African film industry. Victor recently founded an Audio Post-Production studio in Lusaka, aptly named "Grey Room Studios." This entrepreneurial endeavour is a shining example of the empowerment that MTF provides its alumni.

MTF's Impact on Southern Africa's Film Industry

In conclusion, the MultiChoice Talent Factory's impact on Southern Africa's film industry is undeniable. With its involvement in the Zambia National Film Commission committee, hosting the Africa Day Luncheon, and providing comprehensive training to industry professionals, MTF is not just investing in local talent but actively shaping the future of African cinema. The success of Victor, a Class of 2022 alumnus, and his contribution to the industry highlight MTF's role in creating empowered and skilled storytellers. Southern Africa's film industry is on a transformative journey, and MTF continues to be a driving force behind this exciting and promising evolution.

Through its dedication and vision, MTF is fostering a new generation of storytellers and strengthening the cinematic fabric of the region, one success story at a time. This entrepreneurial endeavour is a testament to the empowerment MTF provides its alumni. Victor's studio has already made waves, having worked on the highly anticipated "Night of Laughter Season 2," set to premiere on Zambezi Magic on August 31, 2023. His company played a crucial role in the audio post-production of this show, showcasing the calibre of talent nurtured by MTF.