NELSON MANDELA BAY — Aspiring filmmakers in Nelson Mandela Bay have a remarkable opportunity to step behind the scenes of the film and television industry, thanks to a fully-funded one-year Learnership offered by The Media Workshop in partnership with the Media, Information and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (MICT SETA). This initiative is a game-changer for local youth looking to turn their passion for storytelling and visual media into a professional career.
The Learnership in Film and Television Production Operations (NQF Level 4) is designed to equip young South Africans with the foundational knowledge, technical skills, and on-set experience required to thrive in the competitive world of media production. With no tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and nationally recognized certification, this program offers not just training, but a tangible pathway into the creative economy.
The Vision Behind the Learnership
The South African film and television industry has grown significantly over the past two decades, both in local content creation and international productions shot on home soil. However, access to the industry remains limited for many due to financial, educational, and geographic barriers.
The Media Workshop, a leading skills development and training hub for the creative sector, aims to dismantle these barriers by providing accessible training that not only educates but also inspires and empowers. Their mission aligns closely with that of MICT SETA, which is committed to supporting development in the ICT and creative sectors by funding learnerships and accredited training programs.
“Creativity should never be hindered by circumstance,” says a spokesperson for The Media Workshop. “We want to create real, sustainable access to careers in film and TV, especially in communities where opportunities have historically been scarce.”
What the Program Offers
Successful applicants will be immersed in a comprehensive, year-long training program covering the fundamentals of film and television production. Participants will learn everything from script development and storyboarding to lighting, sound, camera operation, and post-production.
The program also includes:
- Hands-on training as Production Assistants on real film and TV sets
- A monthly stipend, paid by MICT SETA, to support students during their learnership
- An NQF Level 4 Qualification, nationally recognized in the film and television sector
This practical experience is complemented by classroom-based instruction from seasoned industry professionals, allowing learners to understand both the creative and technical sides of production.
Who Should Apply?
The Learnership is open to:
- South African citizens residing in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Individuals with at least a Grade 11 qualification
- Youth who are genuinely passionate about film and television
- People who are committed to a full year of training and personal development
Applicants must demonstrate enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to learn in a demanding yet rewarding environment. Prior experience in media is not required, but applicants are encouraged to share any relevant hobbies, school projects, or creative work that reflect their interest in the field.
How to Apply
To apply, prospective learners must submit the following via email to apply@themediaworkshop.co.za:
- CV — Include school background, hobbies, and any film/media-related experience
- Cover Letter — Explain why you want to join the program and what makes you a great candidate
- Certified Copies — Your ID and highest school certificate (Grade 11 or above)
For short questions, applicants can also reach out via WhatsApp at +27 81 490 7678 (Note: Full applications should notbe sent via WhatsApp).
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by Friday, 20 June 2025. With limited slots available, early submission is highly recommended.
A Foot in the Door
One of the most exciting aspects of the Learnership is the direct exposure to real-world productions. Learners won’t just be studying theory — they’ll be on active sets, assisting professionals, and building a portfolio of experience that can open doors to further employment or study.
Graduates of previous MICT SETA-supported learnerships have gone on to work in television production, digital media, advertising, and even launched their own content creation ventures. By the end of the program, participants will not only hold a qualification but also a clearer understanding of where they fit into the vast and varied world of visual storytelling.
Bridging the Skills Gap
This Learnership comes at a time when South Africa’s film and TV industry is hungry for fresh talent. With a growing demand for content across platforms like Netflix, Showmax, and YouTube, there is a pressing need for skilled production staff — especially those who understand the local context and stories.
Yet, while the industry expands, the talent pipeline remains uneven. Programs like this one directly address that issue by creating inclusive training pathways that don’t require students to pay fees or relocate to major cities.
Moreover, initiatives like this have the power to revitalize local economies by nurturing home-grown talent and attracting production companies to areas like Nelson Mandela Bay, where trained crews are increasingly available.
More Than a Job — A Calling
Behind every scene of your favorite show or film are countless individuals — from the camera operator and lighting tech to the production assistant and script supervisor — all working together to bring stories to life. This learnership invites young people to become part of that world.
For those who’ve dreamed of being part of the magic of moviemaking, this is more than just training — it’s the first chapter of a new story. It’s an invitation to transform a passion into a purpose, a hobby into a livelihood, and a dream into a profession.
So, to the aspiring directors, editors, gaffers, writers, and runners out there — don’t wait for the opportunity to knock. It’s here. Open the door and walk onto your first set.
To apply, email your documents to:
📧 apply@themediaworkshop.co.za
Deadline: Friday, 20 June 2025
WhatsApp for Questions: +27 81 490 7678 (short questions only)
No fees. Just opportunity. Let’s create magic together. 🎬
For updates, follow The Media Workshop on social media and check out their website.
Discover more from Land The Gig
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.