From Vision to Broadcast: What MultiChoice Talent Factory Taught Me
Goitsemang Scarlett Chalumbila | Wednesday April 23, 2025 14:27
This invaluable experience provided me with a deep, first-hand understanding of the television industry's development and production sides, offering unique insights into how compelling content is curated, nurtured and ultimately brought to life on screen. I spent the first week shadowing the commissioning editors at MultiChoice, observing how they evaluate and select concepts for development. Watching them sort through proposals, analyse their potential, and decide what to commission was eye-opening. I learnt why a concept must be both creatively compelling and commercially viable.
The collaborative nature of their decision-making process stood out, every proposal was scrutinised for its storytelling strength, audience appeal, and production feasibility.
The following week marked a dynamic shift from development to the fast-paced world of production, as I joined the set of 'Genesis,' an upcoming telenovela. Rotating through the camera, lighting, and continuity teams provided a visceral understanding of the on-set environment.
The camera department illuminated the technical artistry of framing and movement, while the lighting team underscored the pivotal role of light in establishing mood and tone.
The continuity team, on the other hand, showcased the demanding precision required to maintain seamless visual and narrative coherence. Beyond the practical, hands-on experience, I was also impressed by the advanced and efficient paperwork systems that ensured smooth coordination across all departments Additionally, during the second week, we had a session with the team responsible for coordinating the Zambezi channel.
They provided an in-depth look into how they schedule shows and ensure that their viewers in Zambia can still access content despite ongoing load-shedding challenges.
They took us through the entire distribution process, explaining how they are involved with the shows broadcast on the channel; from the development of a concept to shooting, post-production, and finally, distribution. It was fascinating to learn about the challenges they face as channel managers and the strategies they use to overcome them, ensuring that their audience remains engaged and entertained.
One of the most enriching aspects of this experience was the opportunity to interact with the other four interns representing the different MultiChoice Talent Factory campuses. I was there representing the Southern Africa Academy, alongside participants from West Africa and East Africa.
The five of us experienced this journey together, learning from the industry professionals as well as from each other. Beyond the professional exposure, we built a bond that we plan to take with us back to our respective home countries and nurture into a network.
Our shared experiences have strengthened our vision for future collaboration, and we hope to establish a strong network of storytellers across the MTF campuses. The relationships we formed in Johannesburg will serve as the foundation for future projects, bridging our regions and uniting our creative strengths.
As a producer and screenwriter, this experience has been invaluable. Understanding the commissioning process gave me a clearer perspective on how to refine my pitches and tailor my storytelling to meet the creative and market demands.
Seeing firsthand how proposals are assessed has sharpened my ability to craft strong, compelling concepts that stand out. On the production side, working on Genesis, Mzansi Magic's new telenovela coming this April, reinforced the importance of efficiency and adaptability on set, two qualities I intend to bring into my own projects.
Learning about the Zambezi Magic channel’s distribution strategies has also broadened my understanding of how content reaches audiences, influencing how I plan for the life cycle of my own productions from development to distribution.
This experience deepened my understanding of both the creative and logistical elements of the television industry. I walked away with a clearer vision of how ideas are transformed into reality, through careful selection, strategic development, and high-level execution on set.
It was an invaluable learning opportunity, and I am deeply grateful to MultiChoice and The MultiChoice Talent Factory for making it possible. For any aspiring filmmaker or storyteller, this kind of exposure is priceless, as it not only provides technical knowledge but also reinforces the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and innovation in bringing compelling stories to life.