MTF Zambia Academy "Top of Class" at NYFA

Lushinjilo Victor Kasanga from Zambia is an MTF graduate who embarked on a unique journey with MTF's Southern Africa Academy where he finished top of his class.

As a top student, Victor was awarded an eight-week scholarship at the New York Film Academy (NYFA) to take advantage of more opportunities to learn and evolve as an aspiring visual storyteller and filmmaker.

NYFA sat down with Victor to discuss the experiences that shaped him into the filmmaker he is today. In this Q&A, he discusses producing, cinematography, and post-production and his overall perspective as a filmmaker.

NYFA: How did you feel when you heard that you were selected to attend the MultiChoice Talent Factory Academy?

Victor: When I got the phone call from MultiChoice Talent Factory informing me that I was selected, I felt an array of emotions. I felt ecstatic, a bit nervous, and grateful.

NYFA: Please tell us a bit about your experience in the year-long program and what proficiencies you learned.

Victor: My experience with the year-long program was life-changing, honestly. Among the many filmmaking skills taught, I found a lot of value in learning sound for film and television, both on location and in post-production. Being a producer on a feature film is no minor task, but MultiChoice Talent Factory gave me the necessary skills to see a production through, from pre-production to distribution.

NYFA: What ran through your mind when you learned that you were 'top of the class' and were awarded the MTF scholarship to attend the New York Film Academy?

Victor: When I learned that I was awarded the MTF scholarship to attend the New York Film Academy, I was astonished; the moment didn't feel real. My background is that of having no proper training; I started out watching scattered YouTube videos, so to find out that I was going to learn from the best — come on, that is a dream come true.  It has shifted my course entirely.

NYFA: What projects did you work on before coming to NYFA?

Victor: Before coming to NYFA, I worked as a final mixer (audio post-production) for the Zambezi Magic show -Mpali (which recently picked up an award for being the Best Original Telenovela on the African continent at the AMVCAs). Other projects include a commercial for Californian Beverages and a 13-episode comedy show for Zambezi Magic.

NYFA: What have you learned at NYFA so far that you can apply directly to your short film and other projects?

Victor: At NYFA, I've learned about motivated cinematography, editing and directing — skills I intend to use in my short film and all other projects after. Learning the nuances of how to work with actors, the impact of production design, and the power of editing to influence emotion, perspective, tone, and time in a story are things I'm really looking forward to implementing.

NYFA: What have been your favorite things about living in New York City so far?

Victor: Some of my favorite things about living in New Yorkhave been meeting people from all over the world (it's a very diverse city), trying different foods, and exploring different parts. There is so much to see and learn about this city; I now get why it is so famous.

NYFA: In your country Zambia), what are the biggest career challenges?

Victor: In Zambia, my view is that the biggest career challenge is making it a financially sustainable line of work. To solely make a living in film or television is possible, but it is not easy.

NYFA: What advice do you have for other young creatives in your home country who are considering careers in filmmaking?

Victor: My advice to other creatives in Zambia considering careers in filmmaking is twofold. Firstly, we should go for it, approaching it with a mindset that treats storytelling as an important part of the global society. Secondly, let us strive to make authentic African stories; Africa needs rebranding, and why not make our input a step in the right direction?

NYFA: Do you have any final words of wisdom to impart to others about success in the industry?

Victor: Final words of wisdom to impart to others? I don't consider myself wise or successful in the industry, but I do hope what I have shared is helpful to someone out there.

Thank you, NYFA, for this platform to share; the collaboration between MTF & NYFA is incredible. You've truly impacted my career positively, and I am grateful for this opportunity. Thank you to Jim and Jonathan too!