Applications Now Open for the 2026 Netflix ScreenCraft Pathways Programme in South Africa

Applications are now open for the 2026 Netflix ScreenCraft Pathways Traineeship Programme. This initiative by Netflix, in partnership with the Gauteng Film Commission and the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, aims to nurture and elevate the next generation of South African creative professionals in film and television. The programme will be administered by Tshikululu Social Investments, a social investment fund management and advisory firm.

Thirty (30) selected participants will gain practical, paid experience within the local screen production industry. Emerging creatives can apply by visiting the Tshikululu website on www.tshikululu.org.za. 

More About the Programme: 

Developed by Netflix, the ScreenCraft Pathways Programme offers participants an opportunity to gain experience in crucial below-the-line roles across pre-production, production, and post-production roles.  The programme builds on the success of Netflix’s 2024 initiative which supported 13 rising creatives through a pilot on-the-job training program. The pilot accentuated the transformative impact of structured, real-world training in advancing South Africa’s creative economy. 

By expanding its investment in South Africa’s screen sector, Netflix aims to strengthen local production capacity, unlock youth employment opportunities, and contribute to an inclusive creative economy by ensuring that each placement is both impactful and aligned with industry needs. 

Participants will gain exposure through Netflix’s network of local production partners – including vetted studios, vendors, and production companies.

 Each of the 30 selected trainees will receive:

• A competitively-renumerated role on a film or TV production managed by a Netflix-affiliated production partner of a vendor for the duration of the project.
• Mentorship and supervision from established industry professionals.
• Access to Netflix-led technical production and skills-development workshops.
• Opportunities for professional networking and long-term career development.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident, aged 18 to 35 years.
• Hold a degree or diploma in  Film, Television, or related field.
• Be an entry-level candidate with less than two years of professional experience in the industry.
• Applicants will be required to submit links to existing work or supporting documentation to validate their credentials and demonstrate relevant experience.

Trainees will be selected through an open application process administered by Tshikululu Social Investments. For more information about the eligibility criteria, the application and selections process, please visit https://www.tshikululu.org.za/applications/ to submit an application. 

Applications close on 14 November 2025 at 16H00. Late and/or incomplete applications will not be accepted. 

Keitumetse Lebaka, CEO of the Gauteng Film Commission: “This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting young creatives through meaningful industry exposure and mentorship. Programmes like Screen Craft Pathways provide a direct link between learning and employment, helping us build a more resilient and inclusive film sector. We value Netflix’s continued investment in local talent and are excited to see how this partnership contributes to Gauteng’s growing role as a centre for film excellence.”

Sibusiso Gumbi,  Interim CEO of KZN Tourism and Film Authority: “These are the kind of partnerships that we are always looking for as an entity, where young filmmakers can gain practical and real experience in massive productions. This kind of experience will be valuable when they begin to venture into their own journey to create their own productions someday. This is the beginning of even greater things for our creatives in KZN.”

Shola Sanni, Netflix Director of Global Affairs in Sub-Saharan Africa: “This collaboration is a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can accelerate industry transformation. ScreenCraft Pathways highlights the value of economically empowering creative career paths, directly aligning with South Africa’s national goals of job creation and skills development. With the programme, we’re expanding that impact and creating a stronger bridge between talent, opportunity, and the future of storytelling.”