Triggerfish and UNESCO Are Amplifying African Women’s Voices in Animation

Triggerfish, Africa’s trailblazing animation studio, has joined forces with UNESCO to launch an empowering initiative that’s set to reshape the animation landscape: the Director Lab and Animation Art Lab. Designed to uplift African women in animation, these labs will provide 20 exceptional talents with access to transformative training, mentorship, and global opportunities. By investing in women, this collaboration is poised to birth a new generation of leaders, storytellers, and innovators whose voices will shape the future of African animation.

This groundbreaking partnership between Triggerfish and UNESCO addresses one of the most pressing challenges in African filmmaking, gender inequality. Despite the rapid growth of the animation sector, women remain critically underrepresented in leadership roles. These labs aim to close that gap by equipping African women with the skills, confidence, and networks they need to lead at every level of the animation pipeline.

“Empowering African women in animation is more than an initiative, it’s a catalyst for change,” said Carina Lücke, Director of the Triggerfish Foundation. “When women lead, industries transform. We’re committed to creating a space where African women can redefine what’s possible in animation.”

Triggerfish is no stranger to breaking boundaries. Based in South Africa and Ireland, the studio has been at the forefront of producing globally acclaimed, character-driven animated features and series. Its iconic works include Adventures in Zambezia, Khumba, Seal Team, and the groundbreaking Netflix series Supa Team 4, the first African animated series to debut on the platform.

Most recently, Triggerfish captured the world’s attention with Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire on Disney+, a visionary anthology showcasing African sci-fi's vibrancy and diversity. These projects not only entertain but elevate African storytelling to global audiences.

Triggerfish’s mission extends beyond creating animated masterpieces, it’s about nurturing the next wave of African talent and giving them a platform to tell their unique stories. This commitment is embodied in the Triggerfish Foundation, the studio’s non-profit arm dedicated to education, mentorship, and industry development across the continent.

What Makes This Initiative Vital?

The animation industry is booming across Africa, contributing over $5 billion annually to the continent’s economy and employing millions. However, gender disparities persist, with women facing limited access to training, resources, and leadership roles. UNESCO’s research highlights that these barriers disproportionately hinder women, creating a pressing need for targeted solutions.

By empowering women, this initiative not only ensures inclusivity but unlocks untapped creative potential. Women’s stories are critical to creating authentic and diverse narratives that resonate globally.

“This partnership is not just about skills development—it’s about revolutionizing how African stories are told,” said Ernesto Ottone R., UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture. “By empowering women, we’re fostering a creative ecosystem that is richer, more diverse, and more representative of Africa’s true talent.”

What the Labs Offer

The Director Lab and Animation Art Lab will nurture a new wave of creative pioneers by offering:

• Masterclasses led by internationally acclaimed animation professionals.

• Mentorship from top African and global creators, offering personalized guidance.

• Networking Opportunities to build connections within the animation industry.

• Additionally, training materials developed through these labs will be shared for free via the Triggerfish Academy, ensuring aspiring animators across Africa have access to high-quality educational resources.

This initiative will bring together a stellar lineup of experts, including Ng’endo Mukii, Nadia Darries, Tshepo Moche, and Cinzia Angelini. These professionals, whose work spans renowned projects like Star Wars Visions (Lucasfilm), Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire (Disney+), and Mila, will guide participants through a rich curriculum designed to inspire, challenge, and empower.

African women animators are poised to be trailblazers in global storytelling. By addressing the systemic barriers they face, the Triggerfish-UNESCO partnership is creating a ripple effect that will influence not just animation but the broader cultural landscape.

When African women lead in animation, they bring fresh perspectives, authentic narratives, and bold creativity that redefine the medium. This initiative is not just about training—it’s about fostering a movement that ensures African voices, particularly women’s voices, are integral to the stories the world consumes.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications for the labs are now open and will close on January 5, 2025. Online sessions will run from March to May 2025. Aspiring animators can apply through the Triggerfish Academy website.

By combining Triggerfish’s 28-year legacy of animation excellence with UNESCO’s dedication to cultural diversity and gender equality, this collaboration is set to birth a dynamic new chapter for African animation. With this initiative, a powerful statement is being made: the future of animation belongs to everyone, and African women will be leading the charge.