Netflix has announced a promising new chapter for South Africa’s creative industry. The global streaming giant launched the ScreenCraft Pathway programme.
This is in partnership with the Gauteng Film Commission (GFC) and the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority.
NETFLIX’S NEW INITIATIVE
The initiative sets out to empower emerging local talent by providing practical, paid experience in the world of film and television.
Applications will officially open in August. Tshikululu Social Investments will administer the programme to ensure fair and effective implementation, according to their site.
The ScreenCraft Pathway is much more than a training opportunity as it focuses on real, hands-on experience.
ALL ASPIRING CREATIVES APPLY
Thirty aspiring creatives from across South Africa will be selected. Those chosen will immerse themselves in key below-the-line roles.
These span from development, pre-production, production, and post-production, on Netflix projects and with selected industry partners.
The initiative is open to both new applicants and nominations put forward by the GFC and KZN Tourism and Film Authority. Further details about how to apply will be available soon.
NETFLIX AND THE CREATIVE EQUITY SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Netflix created this new pathway after its successful 2024 on-the-job pilot, run through the Creative Equity Scholarship Fund (CESF).
Thirteen young professionals benefited from the pilot, with each gaining valuable insights and direct industry access.
The ScreenCraft Pathway scales up this model, aiming to foster greater youth employment and contribute to vital skills development in South Africa’s creative sector.
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Netflix is not embarking on this journey alone, as the programme draws strength from its partnerships with established industry players.
Shola Sanni, Netflix’s Director of Public Policy for Sub-Saharan Africa, stated, “We’re excited to introduce the ScreenCraft Pathway programme.
This is to show how intentional we are about investing in local storytellers and creatives. This initiative is not only a win for our members, but also us at Netflix.
It will help us grow the talent pipeline so we can continue to entertain the world and bring more of the amazing local stories our members love.”
EMPOWERING THE CREATIVE ECONOMY
Keitumetse Lebaka, CEO of the Gauteng Film Commission, echoed this pride. “By fostering partnerships and creating inclusive opportunities through the ScreenCraft Pathway programme, we empower young professionals to thrive in the competitive creative economy.
Our partnership with Netflix contributes to cultural preservation, social cohesion, and long-term economic resilience for the province and beyond.”
Sibusiso Gumbi, Interim CEO of the KZN Tourism and Film Authority, tied the programme directly to provincial goals.
“This programme is the perfect fit for our objectives, and this partnership will add much-needed value. We are directly responding to South Africa’s and KwaZulu-Natal’s high youth unemployment rates.”
NETFLIX INVESTING IN SOUTH AFRICAN TALENT
Notably, the ScreenCraft Pathway ensures all participants receive financial compensation. This maes the opportunity more accessible to aspiring talent from diverse backgrounds.
Netflix’s previous investments in local talent, such as its CESF pilot (valued at around R18 million), have shown real economic benefit for creatives and the country at large.
Through the ScreenCraft Pathway, Netflix and its partners reaffirm their commitment to the future of South African storytelling, nurturing new voices, and strengthening the local industry’s global standing.
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR STREAMING COMPANIES LIKE NETFLIX TO INVEST IN LOCAL TALENT?
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