As Uganda’s creative economy continues its upward trajectory, industry stakeholders are increasingly drawing attention to a persistent challenge: the disconnect between emerging talent and industry-ready professionals. In response, leading production and live events company Play It Loud has unveiled the Creative Trainee Programme 2026, a structured initiative aimed at identifying, training, and equipping the next generation of creative practitioners.
The programme targets aspiring directors, directors of photography (DOPs), set designers, data managers, and sound and lighting technicians, providing them with practical, hands-on experience across live events, studio productions, and live broadcast environments.
According to Play It Loud’s management, the initiative was shaped by firsthand industry experience.
“When we began producing at scale, it became clear that there was a missing link,” said Shafik Nekambuza, a member of the Play It Loud management team. “Uganda has an abundance of creative talent, but many young people lack structured training and exposure to professional production settings.”
Rather than sourcing expertise externally, the company opted to invest locally by developing talent from within the creative ecosystem.
The Creative Trainee Programme is positioned as both a skills-transfer platform and a long-term investment in industry sustainability. Participants will receive mentorship from seasoned Ugandan professionals, alongside visiting industry experts from across Africa who will lead specialised training sessions during the programme.
Beyond technical competencies, the programme places strong emphasis on professional discipline, teamwork, creative management, and the realities of working within high-pressure production environments.
“This is also about sustainability,” Nekambuza noted.
“Some trainees will grow into long-term roles with Play It Loud, while others will build independent careers and eventually mentor others. That cycle is essential for the growth of the industry.”
Play It Loud further describes the initiative as a safe and structured space for young creatives to develop confidence, refine their craft, and navigate an industry where formal entry points are often limited.
Applicants are required to submit samples of their previous work to production@playitloud.com, underscoring the programme’s focus on demonstrated passion, initiative, and practical creativity rather than academic credentials alone.
The programme will run for a minimum of three months, with only shortlisted candidates contacted. Applications close on 25 January 2026.
