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About the National Film Academy

Building futures. Honouring legacy. Powering the global motion picture industry.


The National Film Academy was established in 1998 as a not-for-profit organisation with a bold mission — to support, develop, and celebrate talent across the motion picture industry. From nurturing emerging filmmakers to producing some of the world’s most influential film events, the Academy has become a global powerhouse for the cinematic arts.

With a strong presence in over 15 countries and more than 3.7 million members worldwide, the Academy has successfully bridged the gap between film professionals, creatives, and passionate audiences — empowering the global storytelling community.

“We are the home for dreamers, creators, and visionaries. Our purpose is to elevate cinema not just as entertainment, but as a cultural force.”

Our Flagship Projects

  • National Film Awards UK – launched in 2015
  • National Film & TV Awards USA – launched in 2018
  • National Film & TV Awards South Africa – launched in 2023
  • National Film & TV Awards Asia – held annually in Japan
  • National Film & TV Awards France – celebrating the best in French cinema
  • National Film & TV Awards South America – hosted in Brazil

These ceremonies are entirely voted for by the public and have become trusted benchmarks of quality, creativity, and impact in modern filmmaking.

The National Film Festival

Each year, the Academy hosts the acclaimed National Film Festival, held across 15 countries, showcasing independent and major films, documentaries, shorts, and student work. The festival serves as a launchpad for new voices and a networking arena for global industry leaders.

Over 175 world film premieres are produced annually under the Academy’s banner — a testament to our scale, trust, and global reach.

Training & Mentorship

Beyond red carpets and awards, the Academy trains and mentors over 25,000 creatives annually through masterclasses, workshops, scholarships, and leadership programs — turning passion into profession and talent into triumph.

Our Vision

The National Film Academy believes in a future where every creative voice — regardless of background or geography — can be heard, seen, and celebrated. From grassroots filmmakers in Johannesburg to seasoned directors in Los Angeles, the Academy is their home.

Cinema shapes culture. The National Film Academy shapes cinema.