Professional film, community theatre & Graphic design training
6-month intensive • RTB accredited • Films screened at ZIFF & Mashariki Festival • 50 places only
Africa's Creative Future
Mashariki Arts Academy blends African storytelling traditions with global production standards, empowering students to actively participate in and strengthen the creative economy.
Accredited by the Rwanda TVET Board (RTB), our program delivers hands-on learning guided by experienced local and international professionals.
Applications close April 30, 2026
Five Learning Areas
Comprehensive training across film and theatre storytelling, performance, and production.
Cinematography & Visual Storytelling
Learn how to tell stories through the camera. This course covers camera operation, lighting, composition, and visual language, enabling students to craft powerful cinematic images.
Field Sound Recording
Master the art of capturing clean dialogue and ambient sound on location using professional microphones and recorders.
Screenwriting & Story Development
Develop compelling scripts through character development, story structure, and dialogue, with a strong focus on original African stories.
Directing, Creative & Art Direction
Learn how to translate ideas into images. This course covers directing actors, staging scenes, production design, visual identity, and world-building.
Online Community Theatre and On-site Film acting programs
The Online Theatre Program is a six-month professional training experience requiring four hours of study per week, delivered through online sessions and selected onsite residencies. The program develops well-rounded theatre professionals through acting, playwriting, directing, and film performance. Participants receive rigorous training in character analysis, voice and movement, storytelling, and collaborative performance guided by international mentors from Hattiloo Theatre and rooted in African storytelling traditions. Students also learn how to craft original dramatic work, lead rehearsals, and translate creative vision into compelling stage and digital productions. The program concludes with a professional film acting intensive where participants gain practical on-camera experience and create scenes for a showreel, preparing them for opportunities in theatre, film, and television.
Learning Schedule
Flexible session times to accommodate different learning needs
Day Sessions
Evening Sessions
Weekend Sessions
Certification & Global Opportunities
Your pathway to international recognition and festival exposure
Official Certification
- RTB-approved certificate upon completion
- Co-signed certificates from select partner institutions
- Internationally recognized credentials
Festival Premieres
- Films considered for international partner festivals
- Selected films premiere at Mashariki African Film Festival
- Screenings at Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)
Student Benefits
Comprehensive support to launch and sustain your creative career
Professional Short Film
Produce a complete short film from concept to final cut
Festival Exposure
Screening opportunities at major African and international festivals
Expert Mentorship
Career guidance from international film industry professionals
Internship Opportunities
Placement with local partner organizations
Film Residencies
Fully funded residencies in Rwanda, Zanzibar, Kenya, Uganda, Togo, Egypt, and Morocco
Project Development
Top graduates receive support through Mashariki Productions
Tuition & Scholarships
Investing in Africa's creative future through accessible education
Full Program Tuition
- Six months of intensive training
- All Four learning areas covered
- Professional short film production
- RTB-approved certification
Stay tuned to the upcoming Mashariki scholarships only available on merit
Who Should Apply
This program is ideal for aspiring filmmakers, creatives, and storytellers who are passionate about cinema, committed to learning, and ready to build sustainable careers in the creative industry.
Ideal Candidates Are:
- Passionate about African storytelling and cinema
- Committed to hands-on, practical learning
- Ready to build careers in the creative industry
- Open to collaboration and creative exploration
- Eager to contribute to Africa's creative economy
Admissions
Join our next cohort and start your journey in professional filmmaking. Applications are highly competitive with limited spaces available.
Important Dates
Note: With only 50 spaces available, early application is strongly encouraged. Selection is based on passion, potential, and commitment to storytelling.
Apply Now
MASHARIKI ARTS ACADEMY (RTB – Rwanda TVET Board Accredited)
FILMMAKING CERTIFICATE PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM
6-Month Professional Training Program
Step 1 of 4 • 25%
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Start your journey with Mashariki Arts Academy and become part of Africa's growing creative economy. Applications close April 30, 2026.
Questions? Contact our admissions team or schedule a campus tour.