Mbulelo Mpofu [email protected]
THE MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) is helping Zimbabwean filmmakers build careers through practical training, industry connections and opportunities on local and international productions, with graduates Simbarashe Nyahwa and Rutendo Mahofa demonstrating the programme’s impact.
The academy recently celebrated a decade of nurturing African film and television talent.
Gerald Ngonyamo, head of corporate affairs and public relations at MultiChoice Zimbabwe, said two Zimbabweans had participated in each academic year at the MTF Academy for Southern Africa, based in Lusaka.
“Many of these graduates are already finding space for themselves in the emerging African film and television industry,” he said.
Nyahwa, a 2023 graduate specialising in producing, editing and sound design, said the programme strengthened his creative skills, leadership and ability to collaborate in a multicultural environment.
Since graduating, he has received the Canon Collins Trust’s Sol Plaatje Scholarship Award and is pursuing an MA in film and television studies at the University of Cape Town. He has also worked as a multimedia consultant, directed and produced podcasts, judged the Zimbabwe International
Film Festival’s Smartphone Short Film Competition in 2024 and participated in international fellowships.
He encouraged incoming students to embrace leadership, learn from mistakes and build professional networks.
“Don’t be afraid to take on lead roles and to make mistakes, because this is the best environment in which to learn and grow as a creative,” he said.
Mahofa, a 2019 graduate, said MTF gave her practical experience in scriptwriting, budgeting, scheduling, cinematography, directing, editing and distribution, while teaching her the importance of teamwork and conflict resolution.
Since graduating, she has worked on DStv’s Honey Channel productions in Zimbabwe and Zambia, including Yes, I Have HIV, Ehe! It’s a Match Zambia and Mom vs Wife Zambia.
Her international credits include production co-ordinator on The Amazing Race Finland Season 4 (2026), production manager on Peacock/NBC Universal’s Tiffany Haddish Goes Off (2024) and first assistant director on Kigali 21 (2023).
She is also impact producer of the award-winning Zimbabwean documentary Transactions, having helped facilitate more than 100 community screenings and dialogue sessions across Zimbabwe and Zambia between 2022 and 2025.
She serves as head consultant for content distribution at the African International Short Film
Market and is developing an opportunity for Zimbabwean filmmakers, scheduled for rollout in 2027.
Mahofa urged incoming students to make the most of the programme and prioritise relationships.
“Immerse yourself fully into the experience. Regardless of the level of knowledge or skills you may have, there is great gain being part of a truly one of a kind incubator programme like MTF. Ask questions and practice often,” she said.
She added that networking had been central to her career, encouraging students to nurture professional relationships while enjoying the learning experience.
