The animation landscape in Africa is brimming with potential, yet the industry faces a significant challenge: gender disparity. This issue is particularly pressing for women of color, who continue to remain largely underrepresented in positions of power within the sector. Recognizing this stark imbalance, Triggerfish, a prominent animation studio based in Cape Town, has partnered with UNESCO to launch an initiative titled The Creator Labs. This program aims to create equitable opportunities for African women in animation, thereby fostering inclusivity and representation.
With the African film industry contributing approximately $5 billion to the continent’s GDP and providing employment to over five million individuals, it is disheartening that the contributions and leadership of women have not been adequately acknowledged. This initiative comes as a response not merely to fulfill a goal, but to address a vital necessity for both the industry and the communities it serves.
The Creator Labs will adopt a multi-faceted approach designed to elevate women’s roles in the animation sector. By offering tailored training and resources through Triggerfish’s non-profit foundation in collaboration with UNESCO’s expertise, the initiative sets out to create meaningful pathways for aspiring female animators. The program consists of a Director Lab and an Animation Art Lab, specifically designed to address the distinct challenges faced by women in this creative field.
These labs will feature masterclasses from leading industry professionals, allowing participants to gain hands-on knowledge and insights into the competitive world of animation. Additionally, small group mentorship sessions and networking opportunities will be provided, enabling budding artists to connect with established figures in the industry and absorb best practices. Recognizing the importance of accessibility, Triggerfish Academy will make training materials freely available online, ensuring that these resources reach a broader audience across the continent.
Expert Contributions and Global Insights
A number of renowned animators are involved in the development of The Creator Labs, including Ng’endo Mukii, Tshepo Moche, and Caroline Vos, who have previously worked on the acclaimed Disney+ series Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire. Their collective experience alongside contributors like Cinzia Angelini and Nadia Darries adds both depth and credibility to the program, which aims to address the educational gaps that disproportionately affect women in the sector.
As Carina Lücke, Director of Triggerfish Foundation, aptly states, “Empowering African women in animation is not just a goal; it’s a necessity.” This sentiment resonates throughout the initiative, which aspires to cultivate an environment where women assume leadership roles and contribute significantly to creative innovation. In doing so, The Creator Labs can serve as a model for other industries facing similar challenges, emphasizing how targeted programs can lead to systemic change.
The initiative is set to open applications on January 5, 2025, and will commence with online masterclasses and mentoring sessions starting in March of the same year. This timely intervention underscores a growing recognition of the need for gender equality not only within the animation sector but across various creative industries in Africa.
By investing in women’s capacity-building and leadership development, Triggerfish and UNESCO are paving the way for a more inclusive future where diverse voices and perspectives are celebrated and nurtured. As the African animation industry gears up for a transformative shift, it becomes increasingly clear that empowering women is not just about improving representation—it’s about enriching the entire storytelling landscape and ensuring that every creator has access to the opportunities they deserve.