Matamba Film Labs to Launch Second Edition of Immersive Incubator Program

By James Nyandowe

In a conserted effort calculated to promote and amplify women’s participation in the digital sector, Matamba Film Labs for Women is back again with the second edition of its Immersive Incubator programme , which seeks to support Zimbabwean creative technologists and artists in utilising the new media.

The programme, supported by the Irish Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa , will incubate nine Zimbabwean creatives, providing them with training, mentorship, and networking opportunities in the fields of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and 360-degree video production.

In a press statement released on Wednesday, Matamba Film Labs said the programme’s launch scheduled for tomorrow is a significant step towards bridging the gender gap in the digital sector and promoting Zimbabwe’s creative economy.

“The core of the project is to grow the number of women who are actively involved and participating in the new media space so that their African perspectives and narratives are also part of the stories for the future,” stated the statement.

The three groups of incubatees will develop innovative projects, including an augmented reality application for climate change, a 360-degree music video production, and an immersive fashion design showroom.

The initiative is part of Matamba Film Labs’ broader efforts to promote women’s empowerment in the digital sector.

“The incubation programme also aims to position Zimbabwean creators at the forefront of innovation, providing them with the tools and networks needed to engage with global audiences and expand the creative economy.”

Accordingly, Siza Mkwedini, Creative Director for Matamba Film Labs for Women, reinforced the statement and emphasised that the programme’s main thrust is to address the underrepresentation of women in the digital sector.

“We are committed to fostering innovation and cultural exchange, while creating opportunities for creative women in Zimbabwe and abroad,” she said.

By providing training and support to women creatives, the organisation aims to increase their participation in the industry and promote African perspectives and narratives in immersive storytelling.