Open call: FAME Week Africa student pitching competition for emerging storytellers

The Student Pitching Competition & Bursary is seeking original concepts for films, television series or micro-dramas. Entrants will pitch their ideas as part of a competition designed to assess both the creative strength of their concepts and their ability to communicate their commercial potential.

The competition is open to Matric learners and post-Matric applicants who are eligible to begin their studies in 2027. Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents and intend to pursue careers in the creative industries.

What applicants need to know

Entries will be assessed by an independent panel of industry professionals from FAME Week Africa and SAE Institute South Africa. Judges will consider:

• Creativity and originality
• Storytelling ability
• Clarity of vision
• Presentation skills
• Passion for the creative industries
• Overall potential of the concept

Up to five finalists will be selected to take part in a mentorship programme before pitching their concepts live at FAME Week Africa, which will take place from 28 to 30 October 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).

Finalists will receive mentorship and industry exposure, as well as an opportunity to present their ideas to professionals working in Africa's film, television and content sectors.

The overall winner will receive an SAE Institute South Africa bursary to study at the Cape Town campus. The programme awarded will depend on the winner's educational background, career goals and the course considered most suitable for their future studies.

FAME Week Africa Portfolio Director Martin Hiller said the competition was intended to give emerging storytellers an opportunity to develop their ideas and gain access to the creative industries.

“The next global hit could begin with a single idea. Through this competition, we’re looking for young people with bold imaginations and the courage to tell stories that reflect Africa's creativity, diversity and innovation.”

SAE Institute Cape Town Managing Executive Cameron Lawry said the partnership would connect creative education with industry opportunities.

“At SAE Institute, we believe creative potential exists everywhere, but opportunity doesn't always. This competition is about finding talented young storytellers with fresh ideas and giving them the tools, mentorship and education to realise that potential.”

Application details

• Opening date: 18 August 2026
• Deadline: 18 September 2026
• Finalists announced: 28 September 2026
• Live final: 28–30 October 2026, FAME Week Africa, Cape Town
• Eligibility: South African citizens and permanent residents who are Matric learners or post-Matric applicants eligible to start studies in 2027
• Creative formats: Film, television series or micro-drama
• Prize: SAE Institute South Africa bursary for study at its Cape Town campus

Full eligibility requirements and terms and conditions are available on the FAME Week Africa competition page.

Submit a pitch.