AFDA

Emerging from the vibrant tapestry of Cape Town’s creative scene is AFDA. AFDA, The School for the Creative Economy, stands as a testament to the power of dreams. Right here in Observatory, on a sprawling 7000 square metre site, AFDA has nurtured talent since 2003. This area, steeped in history and pulsating with creative energy, is the perfect backdrop for AFDA’s mission. AFDA offers a unique blend of higher certificates, undergraduate, and postgraduate degrees. These programs span film, television, performance, business innovation and technology, radio and podcasting, and creative writing. AFDA was founded in 1994 by Garth Holmes, Bata Passchier, and Deon Opperman. What began with just five students in Johannesburg has blossomed into a thriving institution. AFDA now boasts 2,700 students, over 7,000 alumni, and a dedicated staff of over 180. In 2017, Stadio Investments, a subsidiary of Curro Holdings, acquired AFDA. This move further solidified AFDA’s position as a leading force in creative education. Cape Town, a hub for international film productions, provides an ideal learning environment. AFDA Cape Town students benefit from the city’s world-class facilities and the expertise of top-notch film crews. Did you know AFDA has won the Best Student Film award at the South African Film and Television Awards ten times? One of AFDA’s most notable achievements came in 2006. The student film “Elalini,” directed by Tristan Holmes, won the Foreign Film Award at the Student Academy Awards. This made AFDA the only African film school to achieve this honor. AFDA’s alumni have gone on to achieve great success in the creative industries. Notable alumni include actors like Michelle Allen and Vuyo Dabula, directors like Jenna Bass and Nosipho Dumisa, and musician Riky Rick. AFDA continues to push the boundaries of creative education. Its innovative programs and industry connections ensure that graduates are well-equipped for successful careers. AFDA stands as a beacon of creativity in the heart of Cape Town. It is a place where dreams are nurtured, and talent is transformed into success.