By Rita Okoye
MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) West Africa, a renowned initiative dedicated to nurturing young African filmmakers, recently concluded its fifth annual graduation ceremony, honoring the achievements of its 2024 cohort.
The MTF program provides comprehensive, fully-funded training to 60 aspiring filmmakers each year. By equipping them with the latest technical and creative skills, the program empowers them to craft compelling stories that showcase Africa’s rich cultural heritage to a global audience.
This year’s graduation ceremony was a celebration of creativity, dedication, and exceptional talent. Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, emphasized the significance of the occasion:
“This ceremony marks not only the completion of an academic journey but also the induction of these talented individuals into the elite MTF Alumni Network, a community that continues to shape the global narrative of African storytelling.”
The 2024 cohort has already made significant strides in the industry. Non Cras by Elma Baisie was selected for the Life-Off Global Network, while Get Out of Your Head by Oluwayanmife Arogundade and Winner Achimugu was chosen for Afropolis Lagos 2024.
In collaboration with the Earthshot Prize initiative, MTF West Africa encouraged students to create projects focused on environmental sustainability. The 2024 cohort produced several impactful projects, including Revive the Ocean, Racing Against Time, and 2070, showcasing their ability to address critical global issues through storytelling.
MTF West Africa’s commitment to nurturing exceptional talent has resulted in numerous successes. Rekiya, a short film by the 2023 cohort, was selected for AFRIFF 2024. Additionally, Poached, directed by Adeola Andrea Peregrino, received accolades at various film festivals, including the LEAP Africa USAID Film Contest and AFRIFF 2024.
The graduation of the 2024 cohort marks another significant milestone for MTF West Africa. By empowering young filmmakers, the program continues to elevate African storytelling to new heights.