Netflix, in collaboration with the Gauteng Film Commission (GFC) and the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Tourism and Film Authority, has launched the ScreenCraft Pathways training programme where 14 young South Africans will spend the next year working within some of the country’s leading film and television production and post-production companies. The streamer also announced that the programme has been renewed for a second cohort set to kick off training in 2027.
The announcement was made at a Youth Month event hosted by Netflix, the GFC and the KZN Tourism & Film Authority in Johannesburg. The event brought together filmmakers, industry organisations, policymakers and government representatives to align audiovisual investment with national socio-economic goals directly in support of the government’s 2026 Youth Month theme, “Year of Putting Young South Africans to Work.”
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The first cohort, administered by Tshikululu Social Investments, includes Thobeka Nkosi, Lebohang Tsotetsi, Paballo Segalagala, Noluthando Tshazibane, Reotshepile Mohutsiwa, Tiny Mapodile, Ikageng Madia, Nontobeko Mbhele, Keletso Lesetla, Tyler-Vorne Arendse, Sipho Nuse, Bryoni Baxter, Didintle Ledwaba and Chloe Beukes.
Each trainee will receive a competitively remunerated 12-month placement in a below-the-line role of their choosing, spanning pre-production, production and post-production. The trainees will be embedded within Netflix’s network of local production partners including Burnt Onion, Quizzical Pictures, The Refinery, Midnight VFX, Rechord Post, Mushroom Media and Gambit Films.
Participants will be mentored by working professionals on active productions, giving them on-set, in-suite experience. They will also have access to specialised workshops led by Netflix focused on skills development, technical production, career advancement and networking opportunities designed to foster sustainable professional growth and industry connections.
“South Africa’s creative economy is one of the most compelling growth opportunities on the continent, and the talent to power it already exists here,” said Pelin Mavili, Netflix Director of Global Affairs for Middle East, Turkey and Africa. “ScreenCraft Pathways is our commitment to ensuring that talent has a structured, professional pathway into the industry, not just for the benefit of these 14 individuals, but for the long-term competitiveness of South Africa’s production sector. When young South Africans are working on world-class productions, everyone wins – from the industry to the economy and the audiences who get to see their stories told.”
Keitumetse Lebaka, CEO of the Gauteng Film Commission, described the initiative as “an investment in the future of South Africa’s film and television industry,” adding that it helps bridge “the gap between talent and opportunity” by giving young creatives access to real productions, mentorship, and practical workplace experience.
Sibusiso Gumbi, Acting CEO of the KZN Tourism and Film Authority, said the programme responds to one of the industry’s greatest challenges: creating credible pathways from learning into employment. He added that initiatives such as ScreenCraft Pathways strengthen the broader screen sector, enhance South Africa’s competitiveness as a production destination, and contribute to job creation within the creative industries.
The call for applications for the next round of ScreenCraft Pathways trainees will be announced in due course.
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