South African content creators and filmmakers now have an exciting opportunity to sharpen their digital skills through the Audio Visual Content Program 2026: AI Amplify.
Launched by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT) in collaboration with NEMISA, the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film Authority, and Google, this free six-week virtual bootcamp aims to empower the next generation of creative entrepreneurs.
Under the theme “The African Creator, Amplified,” the programme will equip participants with practical AI skills to enhance their creative workflows and grow sustainable careers in the digital content industry.
What is the Audio Visual Content Program 2026?
The Audio Visual Content Program 2026: AI Amplify is a free online training programme created specifically for South African content creators and filmmakers.
Following the success of the 2025 edition, which trained 150 creators, the 2026 programme will once again bring together a carefully selected cohort of participants for an intensive six-week virtual learning experience powered by Google’s AI ecosystem.
The initiative focuses on helping creators transition from manual production methods to AI-enhanced creative workflows while building the skills needed to succeed in the modern digital economy.
What You’ll Learn During the AI Amplify Bootcamp
Participants will gain practical experience using some of Google’s latest AI-powered creative tools and platforms.
Google Gemini
Learn how to generate ideas, write scripts, brainstorm content strategies, and accelerate your creative process using Google’s AI assistant.
NotebookLM
Discover how to turn research into structured content by uploading sources, extracting insights, creating interview questions, and building content frameworks more efficiently.
YouTube AI
Understand how to use AI-powered insights to optimise your videos, improve audience engagement, and grow your YouTube channel using data-driven recommendations.
Lyria / MusicFX DJ
Experiment with AI-generated music and soundscapes to create unique audio branding and enhance the production value of your videos.
Pomelli
Explore AI-powered brand identity creation, helping you develop consistent visual branding that strengthens recognition across digital platforms.
Nano Banana Pro
Visualise creative concepts before filming by generating detailed AI-assisted mock-ups, allowing you to refine ideas and reduce production costs.
Programme Format
The programme runs entirely online, making it accessible to creators across KwaZulu-Natal.
Duration
- 6-week virtual bootcamp
Learning Activities
- Twice-weekly live webinars
- Interactive creative challenges
- Weekly assignments
- Shared digital resources
- Final project submission
Participants must attend at least 80% of the live virtual sessions to successfully complete the programme.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be 18 years or older
- Be based in KwaZulu-Natal
- Be an active content creator or filmmaker with a demonstrable body of work on social media
- Have an active Google Account and/or YouTube Channel
- Be available to attend at least 80% of the virtual sessions
- Be willing to complete weekly creative challenges and submit a final project
This programme is ideal for aspiring digital creators looking to integrate artificial intelligence into their creative process while building sustainable businesses around their content.
Is the AI Amplify Programme Free?
Yes.
The Audio Visual Content Program 2026: AI Amplify is completely free of charge for accepted participants.
There are no tuition fees, allowing creators to gain valuable AI and digital production skills without financial barriers.
Application Dates
Applications officially:
- Open: 5 June 2026
- Close: 19 June 2026
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date, as spaces are limited.
Benefits of Joining the AI Amplify Bootcamp
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the global creative industry. Content creators who understand how to responsibly use AI tools can improve productivity, enhance storytelling, and unlock new income opportunities.
The AI Amplify programme seeks to position South African creators at the forefront of this digital transformation by providing practical skills, mentorship, and industry-relevant training.
Successful participants will benefit from:
- Free AI-focused creative training
- Industry-relevant digital production skills
- Hands-on practical experience
- Networking opportunities with fellow creators
- Exposure to Google’s AI ecosystem
- Improved creative workflows
- Enhanced career opportunities in digital media and filmmaking
Related: Free IBM Digital Skills Training 2026
How to Apply
Applications for the Audio Visual Content Program 2026: AI Amplify are submitted through the official application platform.
Prospective applicants should ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and prepare examples of their existing creative work before applying.
With only a limited number of places available, early applications are strongly encouraged.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Audio Visual Content Program 2026 free?
Yes. The programme is completely free for all successful applicants. There are no tuition fees.
How long is the programme?
The bootcamp runs for six weeks and is delivered entirely online through virtual sessions.
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be based in KwaZulu-Natal
- Be an active content creator or filmmaker with existing work on social media
- Have an active Google Account or YouTube Channel
- Be able to attend at least 80% of the live sessions
- Complete weekly creative challenges and a final project
How many participants will be selected?
Only 150 creators will be selected for the 2026 cohort, making the programme highly competitive.
What AI tools will participants learn?
The programme includes practical training on:
- Google Gemini
- NotebookLM
- YouTube AI
- Lyria / MusicFX DJ
- Pomelli
- Nano Banana Pro
These tools are designed to improve content planning, production, branding, and audience growth.
Will participants receive a certificate?
Yes. Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a graduation credential co-signed by Google, NEMISA, DCDT, and the KwaZulu-Natal Tourism & Film Authority.
If you’re an active creator looking to expand your skills and embrace AI-powered storytelling, this six-week virtual bootcamp could be the perfect opportunity to take your creative career to the next level.
