AVIJOZI 2025 Returns with ‘Heart of Steel’ Theme to Champion Africa’s Creative Technologists

AVIJOZI, the continent’s leading free-access event dedicated to Film, AI, Animation, VFX, Interactive Tech, Comics and Content Development, is back this September with a bold new theme: Heart of Steel. 

Taking place on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September 2025 at Summer Place in Hyde Park, the two-day festival sets out to celebrate human-centred storytelling at the intersection of technology and creativity.

Now in its fourth edition, AVIJOZI has grown into a dynamic platform for African visionaries, creators and technologists, both emerging and established. “As we navigate the rapid evolution of digital technologies, human stories with heart and soul must prevail,” says Nosipho Maketo-van den Bragt, Founder & CEO of Chocolate Tribe and Founder & Director of AVIJOZI NPC.

“The #HeartOfSteel pumps life into AVIJOZI 2025, where creativity and technology meet. We would like AVIJOZI to build tangible pathways that lead to income security for African creatives.”

Since its public launch in 2022, supported by a strategic partnership with Netflix, AVIJOZI has set out to champion African narratives as globally competitive and culturally rich, all while creating new economic and collaborative opportunities for the continent’s creative industries.

What to expect at AVIJOZI 2025

Attendees can look forward to an immersive programme of:

• Masterclasses & Workshops led by top-tier writers, producers and directors, including actress Zikhona Sodlaka and Flow animation director Leo Silly-Pelissier, exploring the business of film and animation.

• AI Roundtables on emerging technologies, ethics, IP and co-production models in the age of artificial intelligence.

• Drone demos, gaming expos, portfolio reviews and screenings, including locally developed games like Relooted by Nyamakop and aerial filmmaking showcases.

• Networking sessions connecting emerging talent with mentors, funders and global studios.

All sessions are free of charge, thanks to Chocolate Tribe’s sponsorship and AVIJOZI’s mission to ensure accessibility to all, from students to seasoned professionals.

Beyond the weekend

Through its ongoing AVIJOZI Roadshows, the initiative continues to engage high schools and tertiary institutions across the country, nurturing the next wave of African storytellers and tech innovators.

Event Details

Venue: Summer Place, 69 Melville Road, Hyde Park, Johannesburg

Dates: Saturday 13 – Sunday 14 September 2025Time: Sat: 10 AM–6 PM | Sun: 10 AM–4 PM

Entry: Free (Registration Required)

Register: avijozi.zohobackstage.com

More Info: avijozi.com | chocolatetribe.co.za