Zenobia Simelane, Head of School at Media City Academy, joins SAfm to unpack how AI is changing South Africa’s creative and digital landscape, what it means for local talent, and why preparation matters now more than ever.
Artificial Intelligence is changing how stories are made — not in the distant future, but right now. For young African creators, AI isn’t replacing creativity; it’s expanding what’s possible. At Media City Academy, we see how these tools are opening global doors for filmmakers, editors, writers, and digital storytellers who want to compete on an international level.
Media City Academy’s Head of School, Zenobia Simelane, recently appeared on SABC News Morning Live with Leanne Manas to discuss how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of film and storytelling in Africa.
Artificial Intelligence is transforming creativity at its core, reshaping how stories are written, produced, and shared. From scriptwriting to post-production, AI is changing every layer of the film and TV production process. For young African storytellers, this shift isn’t a disruption — it is a new beginning.
Media City Academy is now accepting applications for our 2026 academic year! Located at the iconic Media City Studios in Randburg, Johannesburg, MCA is South Africa’s first creative academy based inside a fully operational production studio.
We are proud to announce that Media City Academy is partnering with Rocking the Future, a dynamic platform connecting schools with the world of work through immersive activations and content.
Recently, MCA was invited to engage with learners at Crawford Bedfordview, Curro Rivonia and Alexandra High School during their Career Days. We were encouraged by the curiosity, energy and questions from students, many of whom are exploring future paths beyond the traditional routes.
Media City Academy continues to capture attention across South Africa’s creative and education industries. From press features to thought-leadership articles, our story — as the first on-set creative academy based within a fully operational production studio — is inspiring conversations about the future of learning and film in the country. Here’s a look at what the media has been saying about us.
Our Spring Open Day was filled with energy, curiosity and creative spirit. Attendees explored our working studio complex, met the MCA team, and got a taste of the hands-on experience that sets us apart. Experience the highlights of Media City Academy’s Spring Open Day —
where creativity, curiosity, and career readiness come to life inside a working media studio.
Matric finals are in full swing, and across the country, living rooms are turning into planning boards for the future. Parents and learners alike are wrestling with one pivotal question: What comes next?
