Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
EXCITING news for aspiring filmmakers and actors in Zimbabwe!
The Zinema Skills Development Project, led by South Africa-based Zimbabwean filmmaker Ronald Sibanda, is offering free training to empower the youth through film.
This initiative, which kicks off in Bulawayo, aims to nurture local talent and fill a critical skills gap in the film industry.
Registration for the program is completely free, inviting participants aged 16 to 45 from all backgrounds in film and television production.
Whether you have skills in makeup, wardrobe styling, video editing, videography, photography, scriptwriting, set design, props, marketing, or directing, there’s a place for you in this transformative project.
Sibanda, who boasts over 12 years of experience working with top networks like SABC 1, Mzansi Magic, and Vuzu, recognized the urgent need for skill development upon returning to Zimbabwe after the Covid-19 pandemic. “Having worked in the South African TV industry, I gained valuable insight into the film production process. However, upon my return to Zimbabwe, I noticed a lack of skilled professionals, which hampers the quality of local productions,” he explained.
The Zinema Skills Development Project aims to cover a wide range of topics essential for budding filmmakers. Participants will learn about concept development, scriptwriting, production management, cinematography, makeup, styling, wardrobe, editing, and distribution. Sibanda emphasized the importance of hands-on experience: “The aim of the programme is to transfer skills and implement practical projects that will be released commercially to attract future backing from corporate investment and advertising.”
This initiative is not just about learning; it’s about creating pathways for sustainable jobs in the creative industry across Zimbabwe. Sibanda is determined to implement full projects that can generate income and attract corporate sponsors.
“This approach will help create sustainable jobs through creative content across the country. The project has already begun, and registrations are currently open,” he added.
With plans to expand the program to Harare in July and the Midlands in October, the Zinema Skills Development Project is poised to make a significant impact on Zimbabwe’s film landscape.
