MTF alumni mark 10 years of industry impact at Joburg Film Festival

The MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) alumni mark 10 Years of industry impact at Joburg Film Festival. 

The Joburg Film Festival (JFF) once again provided a platform for African filmmakers, with this year’s edition placing a well-deserved spotlight on the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF). Held at Sandton’s Theatre on the Square, the event brought together industry professionals, emerging creatives, and students from institutions like Wits, UJ, AFDA, and Boston Media House. 

This year’s festival theme, “The Golden Thread: Connected through Story,” resonated deeply with the MTF programme, which has, for over a decade, woven a network of filmmakers across Africa. The 2025 edition was particularly significant, marking 10 years of MTF’s transformative impact on the industry. 

 Transforming an industry 

The MultiChoice Talent Factory South Africa (MTF) has been more than just a training programme—it has been a launchpad for some of South Africa’s most dynamic storytellers. With over 140 alumni actively shaping the film and television industry, its influence is undeniable. The programme is known for condensing ten years of industry experience into one intensive year, immersing participants in every aspect of filmmaking.  

MTF SA Director Bobby Heaney highlighted the programme’s rigorous selection process, revealing that over 1,000 applications are received each year, narrowed down to just 14 of the country’s most promising young creatives. 

“This is not just about learning how to make films,” said Heaney. “It’s about understanding the business of filmmaking. We’re producing storytellers who can manage budgets, lead productions, and build sustainable careers.” 

Over the years, MTF has produced award-winning films, with alumni projects securing multiple Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards (AMVCAs) and other international accolades. By offering fully sponsored courses, MTF ensures that financial barriers do not hinder the development of promising young filmmakers, allowing them to excel in their craft and contribute to the industry’s growth.

Taking centre stage 

One of the festival’s highlights was the presence of Maurice Muendo, a Kenyan filmmaker from the East Africa MTF Academy, who premiered his Showmax debut, BOBO, at JFF. Muendo took to the stage to share his experience of showcasing his work on Showmax, discussing the journey from concept to completion. He introduced the trailer for BOBO, offering the audience an exclusive preview of his latest project. His success underscoring MTF’s role in developing top-tier talent and opening doors to major streaming platforms.  

The ‘Extended Cut’ Fireside Chat tackled industry challenges and how the Extended Cut programme supports MTF alumni. This initiative provides free access to production equipment, business mentorship, and financial management services, empowering young filmmakers to create without the burden of high costs. 

Bonisiwe Dlamini, MultiChoice Transformation and CSI Senior Manager, explained how Extended Cut levels the playing field: “It removes the middleman by bringing these facilities directly to young filmmakers. It bridges the gap between experienced professionals and new talent.” 

Opportunities beyond our borders 

The MultiChoice Talent Factory’s impact is not limited to South Africa. With the virtual presence of the MultiChoice Africa Holdings (MAH) Academies, this year’s festival celebrated cross-continental collaboration, bringing together alumni from Southern, East, and West Africa. 

Esther Beukes, Chairperson of the Namibian Film Commission and an MTF alumna (2018), spoke about her journey from navigating a non-existent film industry in Namibia to establishing her own production company. “It was good to learn a new film language. We were united in the challenge.” 

 Reflecting on her experience in the Academy, she described it as “mind-blowing,” with students from Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Angola, and beyond forming a diverse filmmaking hub akin to a ‘Big Brother house for filmmakers’. This exposure sparked her passion for cross-continental partnerships and industry advocacy, leading her to push for regional collaborations that erase borders within the film industry. 

A future of boundless opportunities 

A standout success story is Nomvuselelo Dlamini, who, alongside fellow alumni, secured three Mzansi Magic film commissions within a month of graduating. “We told ourselves, ‘Let’s tell stories together forever,’ and that’s exactly what we’re doing.” Her feature film, Scammers, is now in talks with a major streaming platform. 

The 10-year celebration of MTF at JFF was more than a recap of achievements, it was a testament to the power of storytelling in connecting creatives across Africa. Through initiatives like MTF and Extended Cut, the next generation of African storytellers isn’t just surviving, they’re thriving.