MIAF launches National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa

The initiative seeks to create jobs, address skills gaps, and strengthen South Africa’s creative economy. The launch took place during ACCES 2025, held in Tshwane, South Africa, on 30 October 2025.

It forms part of MIAF’s partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), through which MIAF serves as a Strategic Implementing Partner (SIP) for the Social Employment Fund (SEF). The SEF is a national mechanism designed to create work for the common good, foster social value, and promote inclusive economic participation across multiple sectors.

Supporting growth across the creative industries

Operating under the National Employment Facility for Creative Industries in South Africa (NEFCISA) banner, the programme seeks to employ at least 1 000 workers nationwide, matching trained participants with host organisations within creative sectors including music, film, design, visual arts, and cultural heritage. In addition to generating employment, the programme will deliver targeted training aimed at improving skills and strengthening long-term career prospects within the industry.

NEFCISA is intended to serve as both an employment and development facility through providing practical pathways for creative workers while assisting employers to access qualified, job-ready professionals. The initiative’s broader goal is to build a more inclusive and sustainable creative economy that benefits communities and contributes to the country’s socio-economic development.

MIAF Executive Director Eddie Hatitye said the launch of NEFCISA represented an important step towards building a more resilient creative workforce.

“Through NEFCISA, we aim to provide meaningful work opportunities for creative professionals while supporting the organisations that sustain the industry,” Hatitye said. “The creative sector has significant potential to drive social and economic value, and this initiative is about unlocking that potential through collaboration, training, and employment.”

Get involved as an employer, employee, or studio partner

Employers and creative organisations are invited to register as host partners through NEFCISA. Participating organisations will have access to trained candidates, administrative support, and the opportunity to contribute directly to workforce development within their field.

Creative professionals, freelancers, and job seekers can also register to join the programme. Participants will benefit from training, placement support, and the chance to gain hands-on experience within established creative environments. Registration forms for both employers and employees are available here.

Studios and production facilities can also take part by becoming studio partners, collaborating with MIAF to provide training environments, mentorship opportunities, and production space. This partnership will link directly to the Foundation’s wider Studio Programme, aimed at promoting access to professional creative infrastructure and technical expertise.

Click here to read more about NEFCISA.