A pair of handmade shoes could change a man’s life, but what happens when unexpected fame brings complications he never saw coming?
That is the question at the heart of Becoming Madiba, a new feature film from graduates of the MultiChoice Talent Factory East Africa Academy, bringing a Nairobi story to television audiences across the region.
Set in Kibera, the film follows Madiba, a shoemaker whose craftsmanship catches the attention of Wanjiru Njoroge, an heiress to a footwear empire. When she shares a photograph of his work online, his creations suddenly attract nationwide attention, opening doors but also bringing unexpected challenges.
The film explores how an ordinary person’s life can change when talent meets opportunity and the pressures that may follow when the spotlight arrives.
For the filmmakers, Becoming Madiba is also a milestone of their own. The MTF East Africa Academy Class of 2025/6 has moved beyond classroom training to produce a feature-length film, putting its skills to the test in a complete production.
“Producing a feature film gives our students the opportunity to put their training into practice, collaborate across different filmmaking disciplines and experience what it takes to bring a story from development to the screen,” says MultiChoice Talent Factory East Africa Academy, Director, Victoria Goro.
The programme combines practical production experience, mentorship and industry exposure to prepare young African creatives for careers across the film and television industry.
Becoming Madiba premieres on Maisha Magic Plus on Saturday, 17 October 2026, at 8pm East African time, on DStv channel 163 and GOtv channel 503. It will air on Maisha Magic East the following day, Sunday, 18 October, at 8pm, on DStv channel 158 and GOtv channel 502.