The Stepping Stone Multicam course is a programme that provides UCT and non-UCT aspiring filmmakers the opportunity to gain technical experience in TV and film production with the guidance of industry experts and UCT lecturers, all at no cost.
Having just wrapped their 2026 Multicam Course Programme. Participants were not chosen based on skill alone but “passion, potential, commitment to diversity and community impact”. The course is structured around three weeks and aims to cultivate leadership and communication skills whilst learning how to become industry professionals. From directing to presenting and visual mixing, the programme allows every participant the ability to gain ‘hands on’ experience in the various roles in TV production.
The first week focused on introductions and becoming familiar with the various roles, learning about what elements go into good TV making. Guest Lecturers such as Nkosinathi Mgweba, who is the current director for Deal or No Deal South Africa, ran through the importance of the role of a director and a producer. Working closely and providing critical guidance to students, Archie Birch is an illustrator, animator and set designer who helped conceptualise and improve student ideas of lighting and set design.
The second week had more independent work and division of roles as well as organising as a team. Every week is a build on the last, allowing students the freedom to create their own shows. The facilitators were patient and understanding, allowing students to make mistakes and improve. Their eagerness and passion are one of the reasons the course has been so successful over the past 14 years. During the final week, students were able to collaborate with the Free Film School to create a tv show that will be airing on Cape Town TV. The level of knowledge and care provided is the perfect environment for learning and creating essential connections and lifelong partnerships.
There is aftercare support in the form of the Screen Cubator Programme that assists Stepping Stone alumni in accessing professional equipment and facilities by submitting proposals. Many UCT alumni have gone on to win SAFTA’S (South African film and Television Awards). The Stepping Stone programme is run by the Academic Director Liani Maasdorp and the Learning Coordinator Gabi Zietsman who set up the courses. Hugh Dudley is the lecturer and Chief Technical Officer and Linda Funeka works with all the equipment at UCT studio and assists in teaching the students the importance around equipment safety on set.
This is a course that should be at the top of everyone’s list as an amazing way to gain more experience even if you have no production knowledge at all. Applicants can be UCT or non-UCT youth, UCT students that are not registered in any practical film courses and postgraduates looking to share their research. There are several courses to choose from, available at the Stepping Stone courses. The course is also accredited giving students sustainable skills that are transferable and employable.
If you would like to apply to a Stepping Stone Multicam course, email them at steppingstone@uct.ac.za!