Mahoi Films is set to revolutionise South Africa’s digital creative landscape through community-led innovative storytelling. It will focus on empowering peri-urban and township communities by creating opportunities that will have a lasting social and economic impact.
Founded by four sisters, Mahoi Films is dedicated to providing underserved communities, similar to where they grew up in the Durban township of Clermont and the semi-rural area of Groutville, with access to digital creative skills like filmmaking and animation. Their training programs and internships aim to address the growing talent gap in these regions in light of the demands of the digital creative economy. The mission is to nurture creativity and inspire entrepreneurship, helping communities thrive in the digital age.
Impact Through Innovation
Mahoi Films takes a holistic approach to digital skills development. Thus the innovative offering is:
- Creative Skills Workshops: The company aims to host regular sessions in schools and community centres, teaching filmmaking, animation, and media production. These programs will help youth and children discover their passions and equip them with tools for the future.
- Internship Programs: By connecting young talent with industry mentors, Mahoi Films plans to bridge the gap between education and employment, helping participants gain vital experience.
- Cultural Representation: Projects will highlight African aesthetics, ensuring that local heritage remains a centrepiece in the digital age.
These women are pulling together their skills and talents to create the change they want to see by addressing the challenges faced by young people, especially young women who are interested in the digital creative industries. However, they face an uphill battle due to access to digital technology skills, networks, and, generally, the cost of living and responsibilities that come with it.
Looking Ahead
Mahoi Films is well-positioned for partnerships across the public sector and private sectors working to bridge the digital divide by preparing our youth for the future of work. In the creative industries those who are in desperate need of digitally savvy and creative people. While Mahoi Films has already begun laying the groundwork for its ambitious plans, the company envisions a future where its programmes shape an entire ecosystem of creativity. Their projections show the potential to create jobs, nurture entrepreneurship, and prepare the next wave of Africa’s digital workforce. By 2050, 40% of the global workforce is expected to come from Africa. Mahoi Films is determined to ensure South Africa is ready for that future.
For more information and a conversation about how we can work together towards bridging that digital divide and creating access, this is our website Mahoi Films – We Build Communities.