African women filmmakers are also taking charge of their own destiny in the industry by becoming involved in industry forums and even rising to leadership roles.
As the world marks International Women’s Day, Africa’s film and television industry emerges as a powerful force for gender transformation, offering a platform for women to lead and express their creative vision. Across the continent, women are stepping into leadership roles that influence both the industry’s direction and the narratives shaping the next generation of audiences.
One key driver of this transformation is the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), a pan-African training initiative nurturing the future of African filmmaking. With academies in Lusaka, Zambia; Lagos, Nigeria; and Nairobi, Kenya, MTF provides fully funded, year-long courses in film and TV production, ensuring strong female representation in each cohort.
Women graduates from MTF are making waves in the industry, earning accolades at prestigious festivals and premiering their films on major platforms. Notably, Everything Light Touches, co-directed by MTF West Africa graduate Elma Baisie, debuted on Africa Magic Showcase, while East African alumna Lynn Gitau co-created Somewhere in Kole, which premiered on Maisha Magic Plus.
MTF academy directors are committed to empowering young women filmmakers. “We promote women filmmakers both in numbers and through creative support,” said Chris Puta, MTF Southern Africa Academy director. “Women students make up about 50% of our cohorts, but more importantly, they are given the freedom to express themselves as writers, directors, and producers.”
MTF West Africa Academy Director Atinuke Babatunde emphasised the programme’s role in mentorship and skill-building. “We believe in equipping women with the expertise they need to make an impact in the industry, and they are doing just that.”
The impact of MTF’s efforts is evident in the success of its alumni. MTF West Africa graduate Adeola Andrea Peregrino won first prize at the LEAP Africa USAID Film Contest and second prize at the IOM Film Contest for Poached. Her work was also featured at the Africa International Film Festival and the Edo State Festival.
MTF Academy East Director Victoria Goro highlighted the importance of visibility. “A powerful way to encourage young women to pursue film careers is to showcase outstanding work by female filmmakers.” Notable examples include MTF East Africa graduate Doreen Kilimbe’s Midnight Bride, which won Best East African Film at the Uganda Film Festival and received multiple awards at festivals in Zambia, Kenya, and Zanzibar.
In Southern Africa, MTF alumna Tekla Nakale was recognized for Best Scriptwriting at the MultiChoice Namibia Film Festival for Ataman. Meanwhile, MTF graduate Esther Beukes was recently appointed Chairperson of the Namibia Film Commission, reinforcing women’s growing leadership in the industry.
Beyond filmmaking, African women are driving industry-wide change. In Botswana, former MTF student Serena Mmifinyane founded the Women in Film Guild Botswana, now affiliated with Women in Film & TV International (WIFTI). She later joined WIFTI’s Board of Directors and, in 2023, became its global secretary.
“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved in the film industry,” stated Mmifinyane. “But even more inspiring is the impact of hundreds of other women from MTF Academies, whose work exemplifies Africa’s immense talent and the role of training in accelerating gender empowerment.”
