Showbiz
MultiChoice Talent Factory in West Africa: A Year of Empowering Creatives and Transforming the Industry
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.
As African storytelling continues to reach new audiences around the world, a new generation of filmmakers is stepping up with bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and stories that feel anything but ordinary. Helping to drive this momentum is the MultiChoice Talent Factory, which is setting the stage for Young Filmmakers Day ahead of its Awards Night on May 6.
This special gathering is more than a pre-awards celebration. It serves as a bridge connecting aspiring filmmakers with the industry experts who are actively shaping Africa’s creative economy. The focus is clear: create a space where talent meets opportunity, and where ideas are not only shared but refined into careers.
A Space for Audacious Storytelling
With the theme “Audacious Storytelling & Attracting The Right Opportunities,” the event is positioned as a call to action for young creatives across the continent. It reflects a growing shift in African storytelling, one that encourages risk-taking, originality, and authenticity.
From script development to production insights, participants will have the opportunity to engage directly with industry professionals, gaining practical guidance on how to navigate an increasingly competitive film landscape. The conversations are expected to move beyond inspiration into how stories are shaped, funded, and positioned for both local and global audiences.
Building the Next Generation of African Filmmakers
What makes Young Filmmakers Day significant is its intentional focus on access. For many emerging creatives, breaking into the film industry is not just about talent; it is about connection. This initiative seeks to close that gap by placing young storytellers in the same room as decision-makers, mentors, and established creators.
Backed by Canal+ through its investment in creative development across Africa, the program reinforces a long-term vision: to strengthen the continent’s storytelling pipeline and ensure African narratives continue to evolve on global platforms.
How to Participate
Aspiring filmmakers interested in attending are encouraged to register by sending an email to [email protected]. Slots are limited to reinforce the exclusivity and value of direct engagement with industry leaders.
Most people don’t take reality TV seriously, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. From the outside, it looks like nothing more than fights, chaos, and unnecessary drama. For many, it’s just noise and entertainment with zero substance and absolutely no lessons to take away.
But that’s only if you’re watching on the surface.
Beyond the arguments and plot twists, reality TV is really just human behaviour on display, raw, unfiltered, and often under pressure. And when you pay closer attention, real lessons are hiding in plain sight. Not just about other people, but about yourself too, your reactions, your boundaries, your patience, and your emotional triggers.
Here are a few life lessons reality TV quietly teaches:
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Tolerance Isn’t Just a Buzzword
Reality shows throw together people from different backgrounds, personalities, and belief systems. Naturally, clashes happen. But it also highlights something important: not everyone will think, act, or respond like you, and that’s okay. Learning to coexist without constant conflict is a real-life skill a lot of people are still figuring out.
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Patience Will Save You From Unnecessary Chaos
Some of the biggest blow-ups on reality TV happen because someone reacts too quickly, no pause, no reflection, just emotion. Watching it unfold makes one thing clear: a little patience can prevent a lot of regret. Sometimes, not responding immediately is the smarter move.
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Self-Awareness Is Everything
It’s easy to judge contestants when you’re watching from your couch. “Why would they say that?” “Why are they acting like this?” But if you’re honest, you start to see bits of yourself, too. The impulsiveness, the defensiveness, the need to be understood. Reality TV can be an unexpected mirror if you let it.
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Not Everyone Is Your Friend (And That’s Okay)
Alliances form quickly on reality TV, but they break just as fast. Some people are with you for convenience, not loyalty. It sounds harsh, but it’s real. Not every connection in your life is meant to be deep or long-term. Learning to accept that and not take it personally is a quiet form of growth.
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Confidence Can Take You Further Than Perfection
You’ll often see contestants who aren’t the most skilled still go far simply because they believe in themselves. Meanwhile, more “qualified” people doubt themselves into silence or hesitation. Reality TV constantly shows that confidence opens doors. You don’t have to be perfect to stand out; you just have to show up as you belong.
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The Way You Handle Pressure Defines You
Anyone can seem composed when things are going well. The real test is pressure, deadlines, competition, conflict, and uncertainty. Reality TV compresses all of that into intense moments, and you see clearly who crumbles, who adapts, and who thrives. It’s a reminder that growth often happens in uncomfortable situations, not easy ones.
At the end of the day, reality TV isn’t really about the drama; it’s about people being placed in situations that strip away filters and force real reactions. And once you see it that way, it becomes less about entertainment and more about observation.
So, even if it doesn’t look like it at first glance, shows like The Real Housewives of Lagos, The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Love & Hip Hop, and other lifestyle reality series often watched on platforms like GOtv aren’t just about the chaos on screen. They quietly reflect everyday human behaviour and sometimes even offer a bit of self-reflection in the process.
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.
By Dipo Olowookere
Popular Nigerian actor, Lateef Adedimeji, has announced the birth of three boys by his actress wife, Adebimpe Oyebade, also known as MoBimpe.
In a video shared on social media on Friday, the Airtel Nigeria ambassador said his wife had given birth to the triplets before now but had kept the news close to his chest.
“I’ve been quiet… not absent.
“I was building, protecting, and embracing the greatest blessing of my life.
“God gave me more than I prayed for: a woman who became a mother of three, and three kings to call my own.
My world. My responsibility. My legacy. Alhamdulilah,” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, this morning.
At a colourful wedding on December 18, 2021, in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Lateef married his wife, with fans expecting them to announce this news.
I’ve been quiet… not absent.
I was building, protecting, and embracing the greatest blessing of my life.
God gave me more than I prayed for
a woman who became a mother of three, and three kings to call my own 👑👑👑My world. My responsibility. My legacy.
Alhamdulilah! ✨ pic.twitter.com/ZQRXrrG9wO
— Adedimeji Lateef (@TheDimejiLateef) May 1, 2026
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