AB4IR and Gauteng Film Commission Launch 2-Week Digital Animation Hackathon to Empower Young Creatives
Tshwane South TVET College Odi Campus in Mabopane, Gauteng – 19 March 2026
Africa Beyond 4IR NPC (AB4IR), in partnership with the Gauteng Film Commission (GFC), has officially launched a two-week Digital Animation Hackathon aimed at equipping young creatives with practical animation and digital production skills.
The programme, which commenced on 16 March 2026 at the AB4IR Digital Innovation Hub located at the Tshwane South TVET College Odi Campus in Mabopane, brings together 10 aspiring animators who will undergo intensive training in character design, motion graphics, visual storytelling, video editing, and audio integration.
Over the course of the programme, participants will work through the full animation production pipeline, from concept development and character creation to the production of short animated films suitable for digital platforms and professional portfolios.
The hackathon forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Gauteng’s creative and digital economy, while creating opportunities for youth to participate in the growing animation, gaming, and digital media industries.
Speaking on the initiative, Ms. Ingrid Mhlophe, Chief Executive Officer of Africa Beyond 4IR, said:
“This hackathon provides young creatives with hands-on experience in animation production while helping them build portfolio-ready work and industry-relevant skills. Through our partnership with the Gauteng Film Commission, we are proud to contribute to developing the next generation of digital storytellers and creative entrepreneurs.”
Participants will collaborate on animation projects and showcase their work during a final pitching and project showcase session, where their productions will be evaluated by industry professionals.
The programme forms part of AB4IR’s broader mission to empower youth, women, and underserved communities through digital skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
About Africa Beyond 4IR (AB4IR)
Africa Beyond 4IR NPC is a digital innovation and incubation hub focused on bridging the digital divide by empowering youth, women, and persons with disabilities through technology, creative industries, and entrepreneurship programmes.
About Gauteng Film Commission (GFC)
The Gauteng Film Commission is the official film agency of the Gauteng Provincial Government responsible for promoting, developing, and supporting the film and television industry in the province.