South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, together with the Mayor of Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality, Councillor Mduduzi Myeza, is today leading the Youth Digital Media and Film Indaba in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal.
The indaba, held on Friday, 03 July 2026, in collaboration with the Mkhambathini Chamber of Commerce and Industry, forms part of the South African government’s ongoing efforts to empower young people by creating opportunities within the digital media, film, and creative industries.
The event brings together young digital creatives, government representatives, industry leaders, filmmakers, digital content creators, entrepreneurs, educators, and youth stakeholders to discuss innovation, skills development, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities in the rapidly evolving digital economy. It also includes networking opportunities and engagements aimed at equipping young people with practical knowledge and insights into careers and business opportunities in digital media and film. 
The programme was preceded by a four day Youth Tech Rise Bootcamp for young people in the area, which ran from 29 June to 2 July 2026. The bootcamp provided participants with first hand experience of emerging technologies, including coding and robotics, the Internet of Things, cybersecurity, virtual reality, and 3D printing. The aim is to foster confidence and stimulate interest among local youth in careers, innovation, and entrepreneurship within emerging technology sectors.
The two programmes form part of the year long commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the June 16, 1976, Soweto Student Uprising, as well as the observance of Mandela Month.
Addressing young creatives at the third edition of the indaba, which followed the hands on bootcamp that equipped participants with practical ICT and digital media skills, Gungubele spoke on the importance of taking digital skills and opportunities beyond South Africa’s cities, ensuring that young people in rural communities are equipped to participate in and shape the country’s growing digital economy.
The Deputy Minister is also outlining the government’s plans to support youth participation in the digital economy and strengthen partnerships that create sustainable opportunities for young creatives, innovators, and entrepreneurs across South Africa.
The indaba is taking place at Estcourt City Hall in the Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality from 09h00 to 15h00.
