Idris Elba’s Akuna Group Opens Applications for Free AI Filmmaking Programme in South Africa

Idris Elba’s Akuna Group Opens Applications for Free AI Filmmaking Programme in South Africa. Applications are open for a free artificial intelligence (AI) filmmaking programme targeting creators in South Africa and four other African countries, with selected participants eligible for funding to produce their films.

The programme, called From Script to Screen with AI, is run by Akuna Learning, part of The Akuna Group, chaired by actor Idris Elba. It is being delivered in collaboration with Google, supported by $1 million in funding from Google.org, with the curriculum developed by AI filmmaking training company Curious Refuge.

Applications close on 15 November 2026. The programme is open to applicants in South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and Sierra Leone. Applicants do not need a film school qualification or previous AI experience.

The initiative will begin with a 12-week online academy from February to April 2027. Participants will receive foundational AI filmmaking training before choosing a specialisation in fiction, documentary, animation, advertising or screenwriting.

After completing the academy, graduates will be able to submit one-page film concepts. Shortlisted applicants will form teams and receive four weeks of mentoring before presenting their projects to panels comprising representatives from Akuna, Google and the wider industry.

Selected teams will receive funding to produce their films between July and October 2027. The completed works are scheduled to be showcased in October 2027.

The programme targets aspiring and emerging visual storytellers, including filmmakers, writers, animators, photographers, designers, editors, digital content creators and visual artists.

Elba said the initiative aims to broaden access to training and enable African creators to use AI tools to tell their own stories. According to the programme, creators will retain control of their work, and neither the initiative nor its partners will claim ownership rights.

Applicants must be at least 18, reside in one of the five participating countries and have access to a laptop, reliable internet and consistent electricity. They must also commit to the academy and subsequent stages if selected.

Applications are free, as is participation for successful applicants. Interested creators can apply through akunalearning.com before the deadline.