SPARK IMPACT PROGRAMME SOUTH AFRICA

Spark Impact
Programme South Africa

The Spark Impact Programme - Training Africa’s Next Generation of Media Changemakers

At Sunshine Cinema, we believe Africa’s younger generation holds the key to a more just and sustainable future. Yet too many face inadequate education, high unemployment, and limited opportunities. Our Spark Impact Programme is changing that.

Launched in 2021, this flagship youth employment accelerator has already trained over 100 young media entrepreneurs from all nine provinces of South Africa—and is now expanding regionally across Southern Africa. We equip participants, known as Sparks, with the skills, tools, and confidence to use film as a catalyst for dialogue, civic participation, and behaviour change on pressing social issues, from gender-based violence and mental health to conservation, teenage pregnancy, and substance abuse.

Through a blended approach of skills training, mentorship, and income generation, Sparks gain digital marketing expertise, professional media equipment, and access to gig-based work, earning between R1,500–R10,000 ($70–$550) per month during the 10-month programme. This income potential, supported by partners such as Canon South Africa, AXXA, JBL, and Jackery, creates sustainable livelihood pathways while building community-level impact.

At the heart of our model is the Sunbox—a solar-powered mobile cinema kit containing a micro projector, screen, speaker, and curated award-winning African films. Sparks use the Sunbox to host free community screenings and facilitate conversations in rural and peri-urban areas where traditional media rarely reaches. These safe, inclusive spaces are designed to amplify marginalised voices, foster trust, and inspire collective action.

Every Spark also completes the University of Cape Town Film Impact Screening Facilitator Course, learning to:

Map and engage audiences for maximum campaign impact
Apply social movement and impact storytelling strategies
Launch and manage their own small media businesses

By placing the power of change in young innovators’ hands, the Spark Impact Programme doesn’t just train media practitioners—it builds a new generation of community-rooted storytellers who turn films into powerful tools for knowledge transfer, active citizenship, and lasting social change.

The Spark Impact Programme (10-Month Youth Accelerator)

Become a paid impact facilitator + media entrepreneur

Spark trains motivated 21–34 year-olds from rural and peri-urban communities to use film + dialogue to drive change—and to earn real income through digital media gigs.

What You Get (Trainee Benefits)

Professional Training (10 months): Practical workshops in audience facilitation, content creation, social media, digital marketing, photography, podcasting, and event hosting.
University Certificate: Enrolment in the UCT Film Impact Screening Facilitator online short course (5 months, 8–10 hrs/week) with a certificate from the University of Cape Town.
Income Pathways: Structured support to earn R1,500–R10,000/month from gig work (campaign content, community screenings, facilitation, basic production, digital marketing).
Equipment & Tools: Access to pro gear and digital marketing starter kits
Live Impact Experience: Host two free solar-powered screenings per month using our Sunbox (projector, solar, screen, sound, curated African films).
Coaching & Mentorship: One-on-ones, peer learning, and masterclasses with leading impact producers and storytellers.
Career Launchpad: Portfolio development, references, and introductions to partners for paid impact campaigns.
Network Access: Join Sunshine Cinema’s regional Impact Facilitator Network (https://khaki-goldfinch-269314.hostingersite.com/the-impact-facilitator-network/) for ongoing gigs and collaboration.

What Do You Get Out Of It?

Certificate Impact Facilitator (UCT) with real campaign experience
Monthly freelance income while you train
Stronger public-speaking, facilitation, and digital skills
A portfolio of screenings, community dialogues, and media assets
A pathway into youth employment in the creative and social impact sectors

Who Should Apply

Ages 21–34 living in rural or peri-urban communities (South Africa)
Confident communicators ready to host screenings and lead dialogue
Aspiring media entrepreneurs who want steady gig income
Matric/NQF4 or equivalent; laptop + reliable internet for online learning

Time Commitment

UCT course: 8–10 hrs/week (5 months)
Spark training: 10–15 hrs/week (10 months)
Screenings: 2 per month (free, solar-powered)
Check-ins & Masterclasses: Monthly online sessions
Income target: Earn ≥ R1,500/month in gig work to unlock stipend

The programme is offered at no cost to selected participants, provided they commit to and fulfil the terms of a signed agreement. Participants who do not successfully complete the programme may be held accountable as outlined in the contract.

What Makes Spark Different

Youth-led, community-rooted: You serve your own community—and get paid.
Solar-powered reach: The Sunbox gets films where the grid can’t.
Proven impact: 100+ Sparks trained; thousands reached; real jobs created.
Backed by leading partners: UCT, FirstRand Foundation, Perspective Fund, ESquared, Jobs Fund, Oppenheimer Memorial Trust, and more.
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FAQs (Quick Scan)

Is this a filmmaking course? No. It’s a practical impact + entrepreneurship accelerator (not craft filmmaking).
Do I get paid? You earn from gigs during training; we help you reach R1,500–R10,000/month and you receive a stipend for participation.
What if I don’t have data? Data/logistics support provided for programme activities.
Where does it run? Nationally, with a focus on rural and peri-urban communities.

UCT Film Impact Screening Facilitator Course

A five-month, online, university-backed course led by award winning filmmaker and impact producer Miki Redelinghuys that teaches you to use film as a tool for social change-from campaign design and audience mapping to measuring impact. Past guest lecturers include Gcina Mhlophe, Dylan Valley, and Anita Khanna.

Status: Applications currently closed. Spark trainees are enrolled automatically.

COHORT

Meet the 2026 Spark Cohort

Meet The 2025 Spark Cohort

“I have committed my life to improving my community, and I have found it a fulfilling experience to belong to an organization that appreciates our roles as change makers while equipping us with the skills and resources needed to keep fostering positive change in our communities.”
“I hope to gain practical tools in impact storytelling and community-driven cinema that amplify the voices of marginalized groups I already work with. I chose to be part of this journey because it aligns with my commitment to using media as a force for intersectional activism, especially in underrepresented areas like the Northern Cape.”
“To change people's lives through social diversity in communities. To make a change and be able to be the Man in the Mirror. To give people a Spark of hope.”
“I believe that if I can come out of this able to gain financial freedom and tell stories; that would be a success in my book. Of course meet and work with other creatives who share similar ideals and vision.”
“My expectations of the spark programme is to enable lifelong collaborations, advocacy and ensure tangible impact in my community. I applied for this programme because I want foster a culture where different opinions are valued; to learn new skills and refine the skills I've already acquired.”
“I hope to learn how to create real change in my community and grow as a young leader through the SPARK Impact Program. I joined this journey because I believe young people must lead the way in building a fair and just society. This program gives me a chance to learn, connect with others, and make a real impact where I come from”
“My expectations from this program is to learn and acquire skills that would help me turn my passion into a social entrepreneurial journey, to be supported with information and guidance on how to become a better version of myself as a community developer, and to also enhance my creative design skills. I applied for this program because I needed a space where I can learn useful skills, thrive and inspire.”
“I anticipate a journey filled with learning, growth, and meaningful connection. I hope to inspire my community with the magic of film. I applied to this program to combine my passion for filmmaking and create positive social impact.”
“I hope to gain valuable experience in digital marketing and entrepreneurship, while also growing my skills and empowering other young people. I chose to be part of this journey because it’s all about youth empowerment and provides a space for creativity and innovation. On top of that, the program gives us the opportunity to learn and grow as facilitators, which is truly inspiring.”
“As a SPARK Ambassador, I expect to empower communities through impactful facilitation, fostering meaningful discussions and driving positive change. I applied for the Spark Impact Facilitator Programme because I believe I have the skills and mindset to contribute to the programme and I am eager to learn and grow with the team.”
“Through the Sunshine Cinema program, I hope to grow both creatively and as a community leader, creating safe spaces for dialogue and connection. I want to inspire my community to dream again and use my skills to build bridges through storytelling.”
“I hope to gain practical tools and insight into using media, storytelling, and facilitation as vehicles for community empowerment and social change. Specifically, I want to sharpen how I connect local issues to broader national conversations through screenings and dialogue, so that the young people I work with can see themselves as part of shaping South Africa’s future.”
“As a SPARK Ambassador, I look forward to being an active voice of positivity and leadership within my community by sparking meaningful conversations that inspire growth and connection. This journey will strengthen my ability to lead with purpose and uplift the community around me.”
“I hope to learn the business side of being an artist and creative, so I can do what I love while sustaining myself. I want to stand on business—like nobody’s business! More importantly, I aim to create safe spaces where people can engage in meaningful conversations that build and shape a better society for all.”
“My expectation with my journey with Sunshine Cinema is to do impactful community mapping in my area with the tools Sunshine Cinema has given me, it enables me to be able to do that well. I am a social entrepreneur who is a visual storyteller and I applied for the program with the intensions to enhance engagement between the indigenous knowledge with the experts and the community to gather and have sessions of discussions around socials ills.”
“I hope to gain knowledge that will enhance my professional skills, both as an individual and a team player, so I can create opportunities for myself and those around me. This opportunity has truly shifted my mindset. I used to see the world negatively, but since joining the program, I’ve learned that anything is possible. You just need to be creative to open closed doors.”
“Being part of the SPARK Impact Program I hope to gain experience in the film and media industry with the hope and potential to network and acquire skills of sustainability through income generation.”
“As a SPARK Ambassador, I hope to grow both personally and professionally by using film to drive meaningful conversations and inspire positive change in my community. I applied for this programme to learn how to amplify unheard voices and spark action through storytelling. I’m excited to gain new skills, connect with other changemakers, and make a lasting impact where it matters most.”

Meet The 2024 Spark Cohort

“This opportunity will not only facilitate my personal growth but also enable me to assist others by equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge, contributing to the overall improvement of my community and beyond.”
“I am passionate about empowering youth to channel their creativity into meaningful growth, overcoming societal challenges, and fostering entrepreneurship. Through this programme, I aim to leverage my love for film and storytelling to unite young people and drive impactful change.”
“I'm an individual who is committed to creating impact and seeing change within the communities I grew up in. I always want to engage in conversations that are about social change. I'm all about knowledge sharing and meeting new people. I believe that this program will open some opportunities to learn more about using stories to educate people.”
“Being part of the Sunshine Cinema program presents an amazing opportunity for personal growth and community impact. I would like to improve my skills as a facilitator, empowering others to initiate crucial conversations and cultivate active citizenship within our local context.”
“Through the Spark Impact Program I am able to obtain certifications which will be a huge milestone in my life. I want to use film to bridge a positive gap of communications channels to have a well informed community that will take a stand especially in decision making that impacts their lives.”
“Majority of children in my area are not exposed to fields like Engineering, Arts and entertainment, information science and more. Film would inspire children to dream big and let them know that their dreams are attainable instead of only focusing on alcohol and drugs”
“I believe film and story is the only medium that can evoke raw emotion and feeling from the viewer to let the story stay with them for a while. I look forward to getting insights into the industry, learning about the power of film and how to use it as a tool to spark conversations, and to build a network.”
“This programme will be able to provide me with resources. Resources that are limited and not found within our community. It will give me a chance, and equip me with the necessary skills as a facilitator and storyteller to speak on difficult topics that people relate to in order to create and inspire social change.”
“Compelling narratives can inspire individuals to take action and get involved in causes or movements that aim to bring about positive change. They can motivate viewers to stand up for what they believe in and work towards making a difference.”
“I love documentaries because they tell true life stories and we can all relate to them. I believe film has a huge impact in how we see things.The cinematic effects create amazing story telling to draw audiences of all ages and race. It creates awareness and sparks a conversation.”
“Sunshine Cinema would be enhancing my public servant skills and allowing me to utilise my skills to uplift my community and the youth. I want to combat the drug abuse and alcohol abuse amongst my community and this programme will equip me with the necessary skills needed.”
“Being part of this programme would ensure I broaden my horizon in terms of my professional life and equip me with a new set of skills that will be aiding me as an entrepreneur to thrive. I hope to also acquire skills that will assist me with an approach in addressing sensitive issues within my community.”
“I believe films are a great tool to initiate impactful dialogue or critical engagements. Films have the ability to eradicate the initial discomfort that may come with speaking on matters that affect us. Films may nurture an environment that feels safe to engage in certain topics.”
“Film makes it easy for everyone to get access to valuable information so no matter where you are, a story from Mpumalanga can touch someone who is in the Eastern Cape. That's the power of film: it has no limits to a specific area, we can all learn from each other.”
“Through storytelling, we can illuminate pressing issues such as youth unemployment and substance abuse, portraying their real-life consequences. For example, a film portraying the struggles and triumphs of a young entrepreneur overcoming obstacles can motivate others to pursue their aspirations despite adversities. “
“It is not everyone who is able to learn and create an image when someone educates them without visuals but everyone can relate if a presentation is accompanied by visuals.”
“As a resident of my community, I am acutely aware of the profound toll that mental health issues can exact, and I am deeply committed to advocating for greater awareness, support, and resources to address this critical issue.”
“I am excited to gain insights into how films can help catalyse social change by fostering empathy, awareness, and action. This program will enable me to refine my skills in crafting impactful narratives and effectively engaging audiences.”
“I believe film to be a timeless tool that not only touches hearts but leaves long-lasting images and information on one’s mind. I want to empower my community with the ability to engage with our challenges.”

Meet The 2023 Spark Cohort

“I believe that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have for activating people. Good stories have the power to inspire members of a community and empower armies of volunteers and donors.”
“I think film or story telling can help uplift the youth in my community especially in matters relating to climate change, conservation, unemployment, gender-based violence and other social ills. I am looking forward to expanding my media and photography skills to secure gig work.”
“I feel strongly about this, as I believe that the future lies in the hands of an active youth. I want to use storytelling to tackle different individuals as they go about their daily lives in my community and to give different viewers another perspective of other people's lives.
“Using film and storytelling can help raise awareness. People in my community will now have access to films that they can relate to, by showing the different themes that they can have conversations about.”
“Most people in my community do not have access to cinema because there is no nearby mall that has a cinema. I can use this opportunity to get people in my community involved in watching the film/stories that can motivate them and create conversations.”
“As an aspiring filmmaker I have always loved authentic stories, stories that resonate with our communities. I believe that films/stories have the ability to change and influence the mindset of the viewer. I would love to screen films that would challenge and spark conversations in our communities, conversations that will involve children, parents, teachers and community leaders.”
“Through sharing stories we can uncover our own truths as well as discover and relate to those around us. Storytelling builds empathy, allowing us to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes, creating the foundation of social emotional intelligence that is so important in early education of mental health care. Storytelling creates connection and a sense of belonging, it would be an opportunity for my community to develop through the film.”
“I can use film or storytelling to teach the kids that are still growing that there is more to life than what they see in the township. I want to open their minds to the beauty of discipline and how much you can achieve if you play far from what is killing our brothers and sisters. I want to show them films of success stories of youngsters from across the country, to motivate them.”
“I can use film to create change in our community, by addressing the core issues that face our community, such as gender-based violence. Film can be a way to open minds to many people and it can help the community to speak up or reach out for help.”
“Through film, people from all walks of life can be exposed to different perspectives, stories and experiences. The influence of film and storytelling can be used to educate and inspire those living in my community to challenge the status quo.”
“I am going to use films to teach more about the social issues that our community is facing. The hosting of screening events will bring my community together to spark conversations and that will help minimise the rate of the youth getting caught up in bad behavior.”
“I want to use film to teach and share knowledge with the young people in my community about mental health and especially boys/males. To share vital information on how to identify the symptoms but most importantly to teach them that it’s okay to seek help and where they can get help.”
“With the training from the programme, I want to use the skills and film screenings to share with the youngsters in my community, to motivate them to combat the high crime and unemployment rate.”
“Educating and facilitating has always been my drive. From this learnership I am hoping to gain knowledge and experience. Making change in my community is one of the biggest goals. This is the best platform to engage with my community and understand them better with their challenges and come up with solutions where we can.”
“ I want to tackle the issue of mental health, there is an increasing need for a creative approach such as visual communication, and this is where using film to create change factors in. I am prepared to feature film screenings in awareness events. I can host mental health awareness and empowerment events in universities and schools, airing a selected short film that aids the conversation and inspires”.
“I can use films or stories to steer the youth away from the streets by making them part of my film screenings. I Am living in a town that is well known for its high rate of crime. With the film screenings, I believe my peers can learn so many things.”
“I expect nothing but growth from an opportunity I have been longing for. I want to show my community exactly what the world has to offer through this platform. I want to build a solid network of people to challenge any issues that our local communities face daily. I also want to learn as much about film and how it can be used as a tool of education rather than normalised entertainment.”

Meet The 2022 Spark Cohort

“The role the film plays is that it brings information that you did not know. Film is made up of a lot of things like documentaries, for instance a documentary about climate change. It’s a topic we are not used to, so if I bring it to a community, it will bring new information to them.”
“Storytelling is very powerful because it brings all the essence of what Africans are, in terms of their culture, their tradition, their customs and where they want to go in terms of the development that is happening around the world and how we can connect with the world and how we can move as a unit.”
“African stories need to be told because as a young person growing up in a community where there is a lack of resources, I don’t have access to know about the history of Africa. African stories need to be told to young people and to the community at large by those who have access to information.”
“As young people one thing we tend to do is think that everything will be served on a silver platter, but gig work allows you to do the groundwork.“
“Storytelling is powerful because it opens up your mind to different things that are happening and it also channels us towards opening up to different things or different activities that affect our daily lives.”
“Our youth are losing their identity. They don’t know who they are which affects them actually being able to understand what they’re capable of and what they can do. They need to know who they are, what they can do and what they’re capable of as African children.”
“What really drew me to Sunshine Cinema was the idea of distributing films to communities. In most cases people make films and they go out to festivals. And especially without documentary films, they never really reach the communities they’re meant for.”
“The power of showing films comes through the lessons that can be learnt. If we show a film about GBV to our target audience we will be able to help them open up to us. So, we can use film to open up and spark conversation and create change.”
“Stories are beautiful because they show you possibilities. They will show you what is and they will try and show you what could be, and they can also show you what actually was or what might be. So then, if you use stories as a medium to get people together you can show them all the different possibilities that might exist.”
“There are a lot of challenges that my people are faced with, so I hope from this programme I’m going to learn to facilitate conversations that can assist in making sure my community is equipped with knowledge and skills and just generally with ways to better associate and work with each other. I hope to make the community a better place.”
“Storytelling is important to me because it changes perspectives. You get to learn about other people’s ideas, experiences and their journey, how they get to embrace their journey and for you to get out of your comfort zone and be like: if someone can do it, I can do it, through storytelling.”
“What I’m hoping to get out of this programme is that I’m hoping to be a better facilitator, be a game changer within my community. I want to use film as a tool for social change. I want to bring the feeling of cinema to the community and bring strong African content to people within our society.”
“I am very passionate about community building and entrepreneurship. I think my community will be excited when I show them the films because they will also be learning new things in their lives and be able to spark conversations on those things.”
“Being a Spark ambassador means I can promote change in my community, I can develop new skills and knowledge, into our youth in society and use them to promote better decision making among them.”
“It’s easier if you communicate with the community using something that they can see and relate to, like film, so we can start a conversation with them. It will be easy for them to raise what they are worried about and what they have always wanted to raise but did not have a way to do it.”
“African stories need to be told because we need to share our truth. We need to inspire with our authenticity, our background and show the world what we are standing for.”
“I will be that voice that will open the platform to other people that feel the same way about my community, who will come together and combat the issues that we are facing.”
“I am super excited about this programme because of the fundamental skills I will learn and acquire to be an independent creative, I am naturally a storyteller so I am excited to spark conversations within my community but most importantly pass on teaching through my work and bring about change in our black excellence and identity while opening up a safe space for other creatives to be part of this journey.”

Meet The 2021 Spark Cohort

“I am a highly organised, reliable IT professional with the ability to work well under pressure. I am based in Tshwane and hold a Bachelor’s Degree in information technology. My work as a Spark has encouraged me to explore crossover opportunities that exist in the digital media industry and the IT field. I am currently a junior IT professional at Siemens Healthineers. I have been chosen to be part of a group of professionals who offer mentorship services to young adults so that they can receive guidance on their journey to making valuable career and education choices. It’s truly rewarding being able to be a changemaker.”
“I am an extroverted and hardworking professional with experience working with events management, film production companies and consulting organisations. I hold a national diploma in public relations, a certificate in film and TV operations, and an impact film screening facilitator course certificate with the UCT’s Centre for Film and Media Studies.“
“I am a creative, organised and highly reliable BA media studies graduate currently providing social media management and content creation services for small businesses in my community. As a Spark ambassador based in Limpopo I have gained exceptional communication, planning, organising and event management skills.”
“I am an emerging and talented film director, screenwriter and producer.The impact facilitation course with Sunshine Cinema at UCT’s Centre for Film and Media Studies has added another dimension to my film career.”
“I am a dynamic and self-motivated individual who is competent in my field of work and I strive to achieve excellence in all tasks. I’m an analytical and critical thinker with an interest in current affairs and people, which has given me a sound general knowledge. My work ethic is driven by integrity which motivates me to do the best I can in any given situation and to continuously improve my skills as a professional.”
“I am an ambitious and hardworking creative based in the Northern Cape. I am currently studying towards my national diploma in human resource management, while working as an impact facilitator at Sunshine Cinema”
“I am a creative entrepreneur from Mbazwana Umhlabuyalingana in KwaZulu-Natal. I am keen to work as an impact facilitator for film screenings, and also in project management in a film-related field. I am currently a member of the board at Sunshine Cinema”
“I am a talented fine artist, a photographer, a digital designer, and an entrepreneur. My passion for art led me to study a BA in fine arts, film, together with media, digital concepts and marketing in order to further my skills. As an entrepreneur and a freelancer I’ve hosted live screenings, facilitated events, earned a living through creativity and drafted a graphic novel, which I aim to see published, then turn into an animated film.”
“I am a passionate and ambitious creative communicator who is fascinated by the world around me. I am a Cum Laude graduate with a diploma in tourism management. I am also an impact facilitator graduate who is able to work as a digital content creator or social media manager in the marketing, tourism, or social media impact space.”
“I am a social entrepreneur and a creative who has been in the digital marketing space for a year now, working with start-ups and entrepreneurs. Working as a strategy designer will help sharpen my decision-making and problem-solving skills, while I assist business owners to promote and grow their businesses.”
“I am a University of KwaZulu-Natal graduate in environmental geology who is passionate about creative expression. I am passionate about writing films, film producing, impact facilitating and telling stories through acting. I also enjoy working in sales, the digital marketing space, social media content creation and have experience working with small businesses to help them enhance their profiles.”
“I am a highly self-motivated and driven marketing graduate from the Tshwane University of Technology and an impact facilitator. I am currently based in Cape Town and a full-time employee at Sunshine Cinema as a media coordinator. My roles involve: social media manager, content writer, communications marketing manager and helping with the overall Spark Impact programme.
“I have the attitude that any problem can be solved with a little bit of hard work, solid technique and a whole lot of imagination. I am an abundant artist, I firmly believe that I cannot place each part of my life in separate silos and still reach my full potential. I am currently a Global Youth ambassador, I have taught extensively in the community facilitating performing arts classes as an extra mural activity and as a classroom teaching assistant in creative arts learning areas. I am a co-founder of Blossom Adventures Arts Creation (BLAAC).
“I am a highly organised and enthusiastic leader with exceptional team-building skills. I see myself making an impact as programme manager, facilitator or social development worker in the NGO space.”
I am a talented, goal-driven journalist from East London. Named Global Peace Ambassador by the Global Peace Chain in 2019, I strive to be an active agent of change connecting with others to implement solutions for an inclusive world. My future lies in human capital, digital marketing and writing.”
“I love meeting new people especially if I am going to learn something; it always keeps me excited”
“I am a highly creative digital content creator and Spark ambassador. I have grown to love the impact facilitation field as a result of the UCT course and practical training I have received from Sunshine Cinema. I am currently seeking to grow my portfolio of clients in the social media and content creation industry, specifically in the field of fashion and personal branding.”
“I am an entrepreneurial IT Specialist with a MSCE certificate and experience in infrastructure support. I completed UCT’s Centre for FIlm and Media Studies course in impact facilitation, where I gained specialist skills in planning and organising film screening events and promoting active citizenship using African films.”
“I have been working in the digital marketing and media facilitation space for five months as a Spark ambassador. I am seeking a career opportunity to focus my creative skills in photography, screenwriting and directing fiction films as I work towards my dream of becoming a successful social entrepreneur and independent filmmaker.”
“I am a BA graduate from Wits University, with majors in international relations, political science and sociology. I see myself being an asset to any organisation that needs an excellent copywriter, proofreader and graphic designer.”