As the world marks International Women’s Day, the film and television industry in Africa is proving to be a significant catalyst for gender transformation. It provides women with a stage to showcase their creative talents and leadership capabilities. Throughout the continent, women are assuming vital leadership positions, influencing the narratives that will engage and shape the next generation of viewers.
A key player in this movement is the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), a pan-African initiative dedicated to training the next generation of filmmakers. With academies in Lusaka, Zambia; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya, MTF offers fully funded, year-long film and television production courses, ensuring that female representation is a priority within each group.
Graduates of the MTF program are making significant strides in the industry, gaining recognition at leading festivals and debuting their works on major platforms. For instance, “Everything Light Touches,” co-directed by West Africa graduate Elma Baisie, premiered on Africa Magic Showcase, while Lynn Gitau, an alumna from East Africa, co-created “Somewhere in Kole,” which was featured on Maisha Magic Plus.
Directors of the MTF academies are focused on empowering emerging women filmmakers. Chris Puta, director of the Southern Africa Academy, expressed, “We support women filmmakers not only in numbers but also by offering creative guidance.” He noted that women comprise approximately 50% of their cohorts and are encouraged to express their voices as writers, directors, and producers.
Atinuke Babatunde, the director of the MTF West Africa Academy, highlighted the initiative’s commitment to mentorship and skill development. “Our goal is to equip women with the necessary skills to thrive in the industry, and they are indeed making their mark.”
The success of MTF alumni is a testament to the effectiveness of this training. Adeola Andrea Peregrino, a graduate from West Africa, won top honours at the LEAP Africa USAID Film Contest and secured second place at the IOM Film Contest for her project “Poached.” Her work has also been featured in the Africa International Film Festival and the Edo State Festival.
Victoria Goro, the MTF Academy East Director, emphasized the significance of visibility in encouraging young women to pursue careers in film. “Highlighting the remarkable works of female filmmakers is vital,” she remarked, referencing Doreen Kilimbe’s “Midnight Bride,” which earned the title of Best East African Film at the Uganda Film Festival and garnered multiple accolades across festivals in Zambia, Kenya, and Zanzibar.
In Southern Africa, MTF alumna Tekla Nakale received recognition for Best Scriptwriting at the MultiChoice Namibia Film Festival for her work on “Ataman.” Furthermore, Esther Beukes, another MTF graduate, has recently taken up the role of Chairperson at the Namibia Film Commission, symbolizing the increasing influence of women in leadership within the industry.
Beyond filmmaking, women across Africa are initiating transformative changes in the industry. In Botswana, former MTF student Serena Mmifinyane established the Women in Film Guild Botswana, now associated with Women in Film & TV International (WIFTI). She has also joined WIFTI’s Board of Directors, and in 2023, she became its global secretary.
“I take pride in my accomplishments in the film industry,” Mmifinyane shared. “But what inspires me even more is the work of countless other women from MTF Academies, which highlights Africa’s vast talent and underscores the importance of training in advancing gender empowerment.”
