SA Film Academy & SAFAITS Unite

A Transformational Alliance of Impact to Advance South Africa’s Film and Television Sector.

The South African Film Academy and the South African Finishing Artists and Imaging Technicians Society are pleased to announce the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) — a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating professional development and transformation across South Africa’s film and television industry, with a particular focus on what the Skills Sector Plan (SSP) identifies as one of the critical scarce skills – Post-production (finishing and digital imaging value chain).

This collaboration is driven by the new CEO of SA Film Academy Lindi Ndebele-Koka, who is intent on expanding the academy’s mandate beyond training for training sake, BBBEE compliance, towards bridging the gap between training and job creation. The collaboration brings together two organisations united by a commitment to excellence, capacity building, and long-term industry empowerment. SA Film Academy plays a pivotal role in the South African film and television sector by delivering practical, in-service industry-based training that bridges the gap between formal education and practical training opportunity. Its programmes are specifically designed to develop work-ready talent from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, providing real experience on professional productions. SAFAITS represents Digital Intermediate Colourists, Digital Imaging Technicians (DITs), Online Editors, VFX Artists, Compositors, and QC & Delivery Editors — professionals who are essential to the technical and visual integrity of South Africa’s screen content. SAFAITS was established to unite, support, and advocate for these creatives, and remains committed to fostering their continued growth in an ever-evolving post-production and DITs landscapes.

Through this alliance, SA Film Academy’s proven model of experiential learning and youth development is enhanced by SAFAITS’ sector-specific knowledge, technical training expertise, and mentorship network — forming a powerful platform for structured training, career advancement, and industry transformation.

Key Areas of Collaboration

Training and Skills Development
Jointly design and deliver specialised masterclasses and accredited learning pathways that combine SA Film Academy’s on-the-ground training infrastructure with SAFAITS’ advanced post-production knowledge and technical focus.

Mentorship and Professional Growth
Develop structured mentorship programmes that connect emerging film and TV technical creatives with seasoned professionals from both organisations to nurture talent, build confidence, and support career progression.

Shared Resources and Knowledge Exchange
Harness and integrate facilities, learning content, and networks from both parties to expand access, grow capacity, and maximise the impact of national upskilling efforts within the film and television ecosystem.

Partner Messages

“This partnership represents a shared commitment to meaningful transformation within the film and television sector. By joining forces, we are building a technically skilled, industry-ready workforce that reflects the depth, creativity, and excellence of South African talent.”
Whitemore Ngwira — Chairperson, SAFAITS

“The South African Film Academy has always focused on developing industry-ready talent for the film and television sector. This collaboration with SAFAITS enables us to deepen that mission, especially within the highly specialised post-production and DITs space. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive pipeline of professionals equipped for real work and lasting impact.”
Lindi Ndebele-Koka — Chief Executive Officer, SA Film Academy

This collaboration marks a milestone in the development of South Africa’s creative economy — reinforcing the technical backbone of our film and television industries while opening new doors for young, skilled professionals across the country.