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MultiChoice Talent Factory in West Africa: A Year of Empowering Creatives and Transforming the Industry

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MultiChoice Talent Factory

Since its launch in 2018,  MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF), a dynamic corporate shared value (CSV) initiative, has been at the forefront of imparting the technical skills needed for high-quality film production in Africa.

Yearly, the MTF West Africa Academy trains and graduates a new set of African storytellers, via a 12-month fully funded training programme that equips them to project the culture of African communities through their films and moves. Some of these young talents have gone on to produce movies and series, some of which aired on Africa Magic channels.

Like in any industry, partnerships are the strategic anchor of the programme, as they will provide the crucial and practical training ground for the chosen candidates to not only learn from but also use to conceptualize, plan and shoot their visual content, as part of the training curriculum. Partners such as the New York Film Academy of Visual and Performing Arts (NYFA), the Henley Business School and Dolby are among the strategic partners of the MTF Academy.

On December 14, MTF will graduate the class of 2023 at an elaborate ceremony in Lagos. This will cap another eventful year for MTF. Here is a review of MTF’s activity, impact and industry contribution in 2023:  

Masterclass with Stakeholders in Ghana: High-quality films and TV shows are however not as prevalent as they should be, which points to the fact that the level of technical skills, as well as the access to high-quality production tools and facilities among many Nigerian film and TV makers, is still a work in progress. In March 2023, MTF organised an enlightening masterclass in Ghana, bringing together key stakeholders from the Ghanaian film industry. This event showcased the commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering collaboration across borders. It was a platform for Ghanaian and Nigerian filmmakers to exchange ideas, further strengthening the ties between the Director’s Guild of Ghana and the Director’s Guild of Nigeria.

Alumni Success and Commissioning Discussions: Several alumni from the MultiChoice Talent Factory’s class of 2022 have garnered attention, with both Akwaaba Magic and Africa Magic engaging in discussions for potential commissions. The collaboration with Akwaaba Magic has already been successfully finalized, while ongoing negotiations with Africa Magic are in progress. The noteworthy aspect lies in the fact that these alumni, now at the helm of their respective production companies alongside fellow graduates, exemplify the enduring sustainability and expansion of the MTF ecosystem. This development underscores the collective impact and success achieved by the alumni as a cohesive group. “West Africa has a rich history of incredible storytelling, and this is beautifully translated into its film and TV industry. MTF’s main aim is to take this a step further by providing seasoned and emerging creatives in this industry with a world-class opportunity to hone their skills with some of the best teachers and organizations in this sector so that they can elevate their already incredible storytelling skills to meet world-class standards,” said Atinuke Babatunde, MTF Academy Director for West Africa.

Roundtable Discussion on Economic Empowerment in Nigeria: The impact of MTF as an economic empowerment platform took centre stage during a roundtable discussion organised by Business Africa Online in April 2023. Industry experts gathered to discuss how MTF is not just creating filmmakers but also contributing to the economic growth of Nigeria. This conversation highlighted MTF’s role in elevating the industry and empowering individuals to become entrepreneurs in the creative sector.

Panel Roundtable Discussion on the Future of Creatives: In May 2023, OYA Media, founded by the renowned Nigerian journalist Funmi Iyanda, organised a panel roundtable discussion. The focus was on the future of creatives in Nigeria, and MTF played a pivotal role in this conversation. The impact of MTF in nurturing and empowering the next generation of creatives was a significant highlight.

Industry Masterclass at the AMVCA: As part of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) activities, MTF conducted an industry masterclass in May 2023. This provided a platform for emerging talent to learn from industry veterans and sharpen their skills. It also emphasised MTF’s commitment to promoting excellence in African filmmaking.

 “Take Back The Night” Acquisition by Africa Magic: One remarkable success story involves Elvis Damptey, a current MTF student, who produced the short film “Take Back The Night” using his fellow students as the cast. This remarkable achievement led to discussions with Africa Magic for the acquisition of the film as filler content for their channels. This collaboration showcases MTF’s impact in providing real-world opportunities for emerging filmmakers.

Recognition in International Festivals: MTF students were a part of the production of three films that received nominations in different international festivals, highlighting the quality and potential of MTF talent. These achievements include films like “The Delectable Azeezah Sama,” “Dark Echoes,” and “Love from Bayelsa.” These accolades demonstrate MTF’s dedication to nurturing filmmakers who create content that resonates globally. 

The MTF’s impact is multiplying, as seen through the success of its alumni and its strategic partnerships. It is creating a ripple effect that will lead to a flourishing film and television industry in Africa. MultiChoice, through the MTF, is not just investing in local talent; it is investing in Africa’s future, one story at a time.

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Press Play on Nostalgia: Papa Ajasco, Superstory and More Return on GOtv

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Papa Ajasco Super Story WAP TV

There was a time when Sunday evenings meant one thing: everyone gathered in the living room, eyes glued to the TV, waiting for Superstory to begin. It wasn’t just another show, it was a ritual. Phones were put aside, dinner was timed perfectly, and conversations paused the moment that familiar theme song came on. For many families, it became a tradition, a shared experience that brought laughter, suspense, and lessons that lingered long after the credits rolled.

That same feeling, that warm wave of nostalgia, is exactly what WAP TV is keeping alive.

With a lineup of timeless classics like Superstory, Akpan and Oduma, Ikebe Super, Papa Ajasco and Company, and Turtle Taido Game Show, the channel isn’t just airing old content, it’s reopening a window into moments that defined childhood for so many Nigerians. These are the shows that shaped humour, created inside jokes, and introduced characters that felt like extended family.

Papa Ajasco and Company gave us exaggerated comedy that somehow always reflected real-life situations, while Akpan and Oduma delivered a unique blend of streetwise humour and unforgettable chemistry. Ikebe Super pushed boundaries with its bold, comedic storytelling, and Turtle Taido Game Show brought a playful, competitive energy that had everyone shouting answers from their seats at home.

But beyond the laughter, what makes these shows special is the feeling they carry. Watching them again isn’t just entertainment, it’s memory. It’s being transported back to simpler times, when the biggest decision was where to sit in the living room and who controlled the remote.

In a world where content moves fast and trends change even faster, there’s something comforting about returning to the stories that once brought everyone together. WAP TV understands that nostalgia isn’t just about the past, it’s about connection. And by bringing these classics back to our screens, they’re giving a new generation a chance to experience that same magic, while reminding others of where it all started.

To catch up with all these shows and more, tune in to WAP TV on GOtv Channel 129, where the memories live on and the laughter never really leaves.

To subscribe, upgrade, or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and watch your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

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Second Term Break Starts Here: The Best Kids’ Channels & Shows to Watch

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Cartoon Network

Easter may be over, but the fun doesn’t have to stop. With the second term holiday in full swing, the question now becomes: how do we keep the kids happily engaged while they’re home?

From animated favourites to live-action hits, there’s no shortage of exciting content to keep young viewers entertained throughout the break. GOtv brings together a rich lineup of kids’ channels designed to keep the holiday fun going, spanning action-packed adventures, light-hearted comedies, and educational stories, offering a well-rounded mix that caters to different interests and age groups, while making it easy for families to find something everyone can enjoy.

Here are the Top Kids Channels & Shows on GOtv;

On Cartoon Network (Ch. 67)

Energy and adventure take centre stage. Shows like Teen Titans Go! bring humor and superhero chaos, while Pokémon Horizons continues the beloved Pokémon journey with fresh stories. Add in the imaginative storytelling of Craig of the Creek and the sci-fi curiosity of Elliott from Earth, and you’ve got hours of non-stop excitement.

Over on Nickelodeon (Ch. 62)

It’s all about fun, friendship, and a little mischief. Kids can dive into the comedic action of Danger Force, enjoy the timeless charm of The Smurfs, and laugh along with Side Hustle. And of course, no holiday lineup is complete without the iconic SpongeBob SquarePants.

Disney Junior (Ch. 60)

This is for younger viewers, delivering wholesome, engaging content that blends fun with learning. Spidey and His Amazing Friends brings superhero teamwork to life, while Firebuds introduces kids to the value of helping others. Cultural curiosity shines through in Mira, Royal Detective, making learning feel like an adventure.

Some educational content

PBS Kids (Ch. 65)

PBS Kids continues to be a trusted favourite for enriching content. Classics like Arthur teach empathy and life lessons, while Molly of Denali introduces culture, problem-solving, and adventure in a refreshing way.

JimJam (Ch. 61)

And for the littlest viewers, it keeps things simple and delightful with Guess with Jess, a gentle, curiosity-driven show perfect for early learning on Jim Jam.

Family Moments with Local Flavour

Beyond international hits, GOtv also celebrates relatable, homegrown storytelling on Africa Magic Family (Ch. 4).

Make the holiday not just about keeping kids occupied, make it about creating moments they’ll remember. With GOtv’s diverse lineup, every day can be filled with laughter, learning, and a little bit of magic.

To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

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Heartbeat Finale: Who Found Love, Who Lost It, and Who Almost Had It

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Heartbeat Watch This Weekend on DStv

From day one in the Love Pad, Heartbeat gave us everything; instant attractions, messy triangles, soft moments, hot arguments, and connections that kept switching lanes when we least expected them. Now, after all the chaos, the final episode came down to one thing: who is actually ready to choose love for real?

If you remember how it all started, Kena and Chidera were one of the first “locked-in” connections. Even when new singles walked in, and Kena became the house favourite, Chidera made it clear, not on her watch. From the roses’ apology to that whole Jane situation that had Chidera raging, their bond was constantly tested. But the finale didn’t care about history. It came with real questions about compatibility, intentions, and life outside the Love Pad. At that point, it was no longer about feelings, it was about alignment.

Then there’s Ken and Latifah. If there’s any couple that defined chaos this season, it’s them. From cuddling like nothing happened after fights, to the dinner date drama, to that moment he lied about production setting things up (we have not forgotten), these two gave us a full rollercoaster. Even when Ken tried to “fix things” with breakfast in bed, the trust had already taken hits. So when it came down to the final decision, the real question was: was this love, or just something they kept going back to?

Igwe and Shekinah? Still one of the most confusing dynamics in the house. From flirting, to tension, to Shekinah defending him when everyone said he was playing games, to the moment she found out he had written letters to multiple women, it was always something. Even when he tried to reassure her, there was always that small doubt. So when the finale tests came in, it was time to see if what they had was actually solid or just vibes.

And let’s not forget how everything shifted when the new singles entered. From Ceeoni’s unexpected revelation that she and Henry were exes, to Jane boldly saying she was still coming for Kena, to Victory, Timi, Sharon and Bosa all bringing new energy, the house never stayed the same. Some connections grew stronger under pressure, others didn’t survive it.

But the finale? That’s where everything got real.

The couples were put through final compatibility tests, not just games, but moments that forced them to answer difficult questions about trust, commitment, and how well they actually know each other. Some couples faced these moments together, standing strong and showing they were on the same page. Others? The cracks showed, and certain decisions had to be made individually, which said a lot without saying too much.

But when it was time for the final decision, Heartbeat didn’t hold back. The couples were first hit with a lie detector test, and that alone shook the entire Love Pad. Chidera and Kena had to face some hard truths when Kena said he had never thought about breaking up with her, only for the machine to call it false. He also admitted he still misses his ex, and that came out true. On the other side, Ceeoni and Alvin also had their moment when she confirmed she had a child outside the Love Pad, something that instantly shifted the energy between them. After all that, emotions were high, but the show didn’t slow down.

 At the Heartbeat Commitment, the real verdicts came in. Kena and Chidera still chose each other despite everything. Igwe and Shekinah are locked in and are ready to see where things go, while Bosah and Hilda, Ken and Latifah, and Victory and Toria have also decided to continue their connections outside the house. The only pair that didn’t commit was Alvin and Ceeoni, who made it clear they’re not there yet. With earlier exits like Jane, Timi, Sharon and Henri, not everyone made it to this stage, but by the end, it was clear who came for vibes and who was actually ready for something real.

Heartbeat may be over, but the drama, the debates, and the “did they really make the right choice?” moments are far from done. The finale gave us truths, tears, and tough decisions, but it also left us asking: what happens next for these couples outside the Love Pad?

If you’re not ready to let go of the chaos, there’s still plenty to keep you hooked. From the twists in Wura, to the high-stakes drama of Dividends, and the unfiltered excitement of Stripped, your screen is far from quiet.

Missed an episode or want to relive the madness? Reconnect, catch up, or stay plugged in on the MyGOtv App or dial *288# to stream anytime, because the drama never really ends it just moves to the next show.

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