The Mpumalanga International Film Festival (MIFF) is proud to announce the successful completion of its 2026 Biodiversity Storytelling Incubation Programme.
This marks a significant milestone in empowering emerging filmmakers, while fostering environmental awareness through storytelling. It was held at the Manyeleti Game Reserve and brought together 10 aspiring filmmakers who immersed themselves in nature, wildlife conservation, and community engagement.
Throughout the incubation, participants received practical training, mentorship from industry professionals, and the opportunity to translate their experiences into compelling visual stories.
Working in two production teams, the participants successfully wrote, filmed, and edited two short documentary films:
• Bush Bandits – Living with Monkeys and Baboons;
• The River’s Silent Cry.
Both films will make their official premiere during the Mpumalanga International Film Festival to be held on 8 August 2026 at the Kruger National Park, showcasing authentic stories Beyond filmmaking.
The programme created meaningful engagement between participants, the community members, and conservation stakeholders.
It also reached local youth through empowerment sessions led by the Mpumalanga Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation and the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), providing valuable information on funding opportunities, entrepreneurship, and career pathways within the creative sector.
These engagements highlighted the importance of connecting communities, conservation, and the creative economy. Reflecting on the programme, MIFF Founder and CEO, Sifiso Nobela said the programme has reaffirmed what they have always believed, that young people are ready to tell impactful stories.
“They simply need access to opportunities, and MIFF remains committed to creating platforms that empower the next generation of filmmakers.”
As MIFF continues to champion the province’s creative economy, the success of the Biodiversity Storytelling Incubation Programme demonstrates the power of collaboration, storytelling, and skills development in shaping a new generation of filmmakers, while preserving the natural heritage of Mpumalanga.
