Vusumuzi Dube
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AFRICA is a storytelling powerhouse and Bulawayo’s Tatenda Unika Kombora is harnessing the magic of film to shine a light on the continent’s hidden gems.
The 25-year-old writer and director, celebrated for her passion in capturing vibrant cultures and untold stories, is now set to amplify her impact as one of Zimbabwe’s two representatives in the 2025–2026 MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Academy.
Kombora, whose journey includes presenting popular TV shows and championing social change, sees her selection for the year-long MTF Academy as a pivotal moment. She joins an elite cohort, including fellow Zimbabwean Anthony Simbarashe Chiturike – a Harare-based video editor, graphic designer, cinematographer and filmmaker – in a programme designed to cultivate Africa’s next generation of film industry leaders.
Engaged in virtual training since the programme began in July, Kombora and her cohort will travel to Zambia in January for the final half of their intensive course.
The academy offers intensive training under leading professionals, covering directing, producing, cinematography, commissioning and a spectrum of essential skills, building on the success of MTF productions such as Ditaba and Gogo’s Heist.
Speaking about her experience so far, Kombora said: “The MTF programme is not only sharpening my technical and creative skills, but it also inspired me to think bigger about the kind of filmmaker I want to become and the impact I want my stories to make.”
She said the programme is giving her valuable insights into key filmmaking skills, including storytelling, scriptwriting, directing, cinematography and production.
Kombora’s ambitions within the academy are clear and multifaceted. She is laser-focused on acquiring the tools necessary to craft authentic African narratives that resonate globally while retaining local significance.
“I’m looking forward to acquiring the tools to create authentic African narratives that resonate both locally and globally.”
Furthermore, she anticipates honing her technical prowess.
“I also want to develop stronger technical expertise in cinematography, editing and sound design to translate stories from page to screen with greater precision and artistry.”
Recognising that compelling storytelling is only part of the equation, Kombora is equally eager to master the business realities of filmmaking.
“I’m also very eager to learn more about the business side of filmmaking. Aspects such as production, management, budgeting, marketing, and distribution are key, because I believe that telling a story is one part, but ensuring it reaches the right audience is equally important.”
Rooted deeply in Bulawayo’s rich artistic soil, Kombora credits her hometown with shaping her mission to spotlight underrepresented narratives.
Reflecting on what fuels her passion for uncovering ‘untold’ stories, she said: “Anyone who has spent time in Bulawayo can feel that we breathe art here. I feel priviledged to have been born and raised in this city. Growing up, I listened to songs and watched skits from Iyasa, attended Bioskop screenings at our local town hall and went to art festivals like Intwasa Arts Festival KoBulawayo during high school. Memories that still bring a smile to my face. Bulawayo normalised art for me, creativity was expected.
“At Mpopoma High School, where this mindset was encouraged, my experiences nurtured my creativity. I was head girl, a member of the public speaking and debate club and fortunate to have literature teachers who made learning come alive. They inspired me and shaped my desire to be part of this world of storytelling.”
Kombora has already achieved notable milestones. She presented the Zimbabwean television show Young, Gifted and Talented (YGT) at just 18, and in 2021, she won an award for best blogger in the field of activism. That same year, she received an Africa24 Scholarship to further her studies in visual and contemporary production. She then worked with the Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development for two years, focusing on women in leadership.
Her ultimate aspiration is clear: to become Africa’s leading documentary filmmaker by blending the continent’s profound storytelling traditions and cultural heritage with cutting-edge cinematic techniques.
Her expectations from the MTF centre on achieving growth, exposure and professional technique needed to tell these African stories to a global audience. She firmly believes the essential ingredients for success are discipline, teamwork, accountability, respect and commitment.
On collaborating with her fellow Zimbabwean, Anthony Chiturike, Kombora sees valuable learning and shared purpose.
“I’m grateful that my colleague from Zimbabwe, Anthony, is already working for one of the big media houses here in Zimbabwe. He, like many of my classmates, brings the experience of working in a fast-paced media world where you’re working on a production every day.
“It’s the same as working for productions such as Generations: The Legacy; there is a daily schedule of deliveries. It’s an honour, but it takes discipline and skill to remain there. That’s what I’m hoping to learn from my colleagues. The plan is not just to produce uniquely Zimbabwean stories, but uniquely African stories.
Online Reporter