The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) is set to amplify African animation voices and champion industry sustainability with its comprehensive “Animation@DFM 2025” programme, running from July 18-21, 2025, as part of the 16th Durban FilmMart (DFM). This year’s focus promises a vibrant exploration of the continent’s burgeoning animation sector, encompassing project pitching, insightful discussions, and world-class masterclasses.
A cornerstone of Animation@DFM 2025 is the official projects pitching in the DFM Pitch and Finance Forum, offering African animation creators a crucial platform to connect with potential investors and partners. Beyond pitching, the program delves into critical industry issues, with various partners leading discussions on sustainability, diversity, and technical excellence within the African animation landscape. Experts will address the unique challenges and opportunities facing studios and creators across the continent.
Adding a dynamic new dimension, Animation@DFM will partner with the Cape Town International Animation Festival (CTIAF) for a special travelling showcase. Durban will serve as a key host city on July 20th, as part of a three-city tour that kicks off in Cape Town on July 2nd and concludes in Johannesburg on August 23rd. Audiences can anticipate a rich tapestry of African animation, showcasing diverse storytelling and artistic styles, and celebrating the continent’s remarkable creative talent.
Leading industry conversations on independent studio sustainability will be a panel featuring Francis Y. Brown (AnimaxFYB Studios), Avuzwa Ntshongwana (Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct), Hamid Ibrahim (Kugali), and Claye Edou (Cledley Productions). Their session, “How Can Smaller Animation Studios Remain Sustainable?”, will offer practical strategies for maintaining creative and financial viability in an increasingly competitive global market.
In a crucial partnership with Triggerfish and UNESCO, the panel discussion “Expanding the Frame – Building Bridges for Gender Inclusivity in Animation” will critically examine the industry’s inclusion of women, femmes, and queer-identifying individuals. Moderated by Anthony Silverston, the discussion will feature prominent figures like Kumbi Chitenderu (Triggerfish), Nadia Darries (Goon Valley), Tshepo Moche (PlayNice), Tracey-Lee Rainers (Story Oasis), Vanessa Ann Sinden (Triggerfish), and Caroline Vos (Triggerfish), all striving to amplify underrepresented voices and foster a more equitable industry.
Further enriching the program are masterclasses led by global animation luminaries. Sébastien Onomo of Special Touch Studios, Bruno Felix, founder of Submarine, and Isaac Mogajane, co-founder of Diprente Films, will share their expertise on the global landscape of animated content production.
These sessions are designed to foster invaluable networking opportunities for animation professionals, strengthening the African animation ecosystem and building crucial bridges to international markets and collaborators. Registration for the 16th Durban FilmMart is now open, inviting all interested parties to be part of this pivotal event for African animation.
