2026 Intake — Applications Open

Training the Next Generation
of Rwandan Filmmakers

Join IMENA Film Academy's 2026 intake — a hands-on multimedia training program in Huye, Rwanda. Learn filmmaking, photography, editing, and graphic design by actually doing them, with professional equipment and expert mentors from day one.

4
Months Total
15
Seats Only
3
Disciplines
0
Experience Needed
Apply Now Program Overview Chat on WhatsApp
Program starts 29 June 2026 — apply early, seats fill fast.
Only 15 seats available for the 2026 intake
Limited Enrollment
About the Program
Where Art Meets Real Industry Skills

IMENA Film Academy is built on one belief: the best way to learn creative media is by making it. From your very first week you'll be behind a camera, inside an editing suite, and working on real projects — not just watching slideshows.

Hands-On From Day One

Every week is structured around doing — shooting, editing, designing — with professional equipment and continuous trainer feedback.

Small Cohort, Big Attention

Only 15 students per intake. That means every trainee gets direct mentorship, sufficient equipment time, and space to develop their creative voice.

Certified by IMENA & Partners

Graduates who complete and present their final project receive an official Certificate of Completion, recognised by the academy and its partners.

Industry-Standard Tools

Train on Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Lightroom, Photoshop, Illustrator, professional cameras, lighting, and audio equipment.

Curriculum
Three Core Training Areas

Each discipline is taught together, so by graduation you understand the full creative production chain — not just one isolated skill.

01

Videography & Video Editing

  • Camera operation & framing
  • Storytelling for film
  • Lighting techniques
  • Sound recording
  • Editing workflows & color correction
  • Exporting professional content
Software & Tools
Premiere Pro DaVinci Resolve Pro Cameras Audio Gear
02

Photography & Photo Editing

  • Photography basics & composition
  • Visual storytelling
  • Portrait & event photography
  • Lighting for photography
  • Photo retouching & editing
Software & Tools
Lightroom Photoshop
03

Graphic Design

  • Design principles & branding
  • Poster & social media design
  • Typography & visual communication
  • Creative layout design
Software & Tools
Illustrator Photoshop Canva
Program Structure
4 Months. Built to Build You.

Three months of intensive training followed by a full month of real production experience and final project. Each month builds on the last — foundation, then technique, then creative independence.

1
Month 1 · July 2026
Foundation Skills
Introduction to filmmaking Photography basics Design principles Camera basics Editing workflow
2
Month 2 · August 2026
Technical Production
Lighting Sound recording Shooting techniques Advanced editing Photography exercises
3
Month 3 · September 2026
Creative Production
Team projects Production exercises Creative storytelling Portfolio development
4
Month 4 · October 2026
Professional Practice & Final Project
Real production practice Collaborative projects Editing sessions Final project production Screening & presentation

Tuition Fees

Full program fee covering all four months — intensive classroom training, practical assignments, production exercises, and the final project. Equipment is provided at the academy.

500,000 RWF
Rwandan Francs · Full 4-Month Program
How We Learn
Weekly Practical System

Every week follows the same rhythm: guided learning early in the week, then independent practical work toward the end. Trainer feedback runs continuously throughout.

Monday – Wednesday

Training Sessions

Guided classroom and studio sessions led by trainers. New techniques, demonstrations, and structured exercises.

Thursday – Friday

Practical Assignments

Apply the week's lessons independently or in teams. Camera exercises, editing tasks, design projects, and group productions.

Throughout

Continuous Assessment

No exams — assessment is based on weekly project work, group exercises, and your final multimedia production project.

Admissions
Who Can Apply

We look for passion and commitment — not prior experience. If you love storytelling and are ready to work hard, you belong here.

Requirements
  • Completed O' Level (9 Years Basic Education) or equivalent
  • Passionate about creative media and storytelling
  • Willing to participate in practical production activities
  • Committed to teamwork and continuous learning
  • Valid national ID or passport
  • No prior filmmaking experience required
Application Process
1
Submit your application Fill in the online form with your details, educational background, area of interest, and motivation message.
2
Portfolio & motivation review Our admissions team reviews your application and any creative work you choose to share.
3
Interview with the academy team A short conversation to understand your goals, interests, and commitment level.
4
Offer letter & enrollment Accepted applicants receive an official offer letter with enrollment instructions and payment details.
FAQ
Common Questions

Everything you need to know before applying. Still have a question? Chat with us on WhatsApp.

Do I need prior filmmaking or design experience?
No experience is required at all. IMENA Film Academy is designed to take you from zero to professional. Our curriculum teaches everything from scratch — camera operation, editing, photography, and graphic design — with expert guidance every step of the way. Many of our best students started with no background in creative media.
Is equipment provided, or do I need to bring my own?
All equipment is provided by the academy. You will have hands-on access to professional cameras, lighting equipment, audio gear, and editing workstations with industry-standard software including Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Lightroom, Photoshop, and Illustrator. You do not need to own any equipment to enroll.
Will I receive a certificate at the end?
Yes. Students who successfully complete the full program and present their final creative project receive a Certificate of Completion issued by IMENA Film Academy and its partners. This is awarded during the final screening and presentation event at the end of Month 4.
What is the weekly schedule like?
Training sessions run Monday to Wednesday. Thursday and Friday are dedicated to practical assignments and production exercises based on the week's lessons. You'll work independently or in teams, with continuous feedback from your trainer throughout. There are no traditional exams — your progress is assessed through your practical work.
How many students are accepted per intake?
Each intake is strictly limited to 15 students. This small cohort size is intentional — it ensures every trainee receives direct, personalised mentorship, sufficient time with professional equipment, and individual creative development support.
Where exactly is the academy located?
IMENA Film Academy is located in Huye District, Ngoma Sector, Butare Cell – Karubanda Village, Southern Province, Rwanda. If you would like directions or would like to visit the academy before applying, please reach out via WhatsApp or email.
What happens if I cannot complete the program?
The Certificate of Completion is awarded only to students who complete the full program and present their final project. We strongly encourage all applicants to consider their availability and commitment carefully before applying. If you have concerns about scheduling, speak with our admissions team before submitting.

Ready to Tell Your Story?
Apply for the 2026 Intake.

Only 15 seats available. The program starts 29 June 2026. Submit your application now — it takes less than 5 minutes.

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