Multichoice Africa has launched a new far-reaching Pan-African social investment initiative called the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) to boost Africa’s creative industries into vibrant economic centres. The investment initiative is a three-part initiative, which commenced with the launch of regional academy in Lagos, would also has academies in Kenya and Zambia.
Managing Director, MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe, stressed the need for shifting of attention to the creative industry, as Africa's development had long been defined by investment in other industries, thereby neglecting the creative industry’s potential.
“As a result, the film and television industries have not developed at the same pace as other industries on the continent, and not for a lack of talent, passion or imagination.
“We are abundantly blessed in these areas. However, the space given for this expression has at best been limited and at worst, been relegated to the fringes of the mainstream economy, leaving in its wake, unfulfilled dreams, unexplored talent and unwritten stories,” he said.
The MTF initiative would deliver three touch points throughout the year, the MTF academies; Master Classes and the MTF Portal. The first to launch is the MTF Academy, a 12-month educational programme aimed at furnishing 60 deserving, young and talented people who desire to work and innovate in film and television production.
“We must consciously build capacity so that our next-generation filmmakers and producers can also create wealth and create employment by being entrepreneurs as well,” said MTF Academy Director for West Africa, Femi Odugbemi.
Application for the MTF is currently open and would close on July 5, 2018. The 60 post-school MTF students, 20 for each region, would be selected from 13 African countries. The year-long programme begins on October 1, 2018.
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