By Ayanda Dlamini
The FNB Eswatini Foundation has reinforced its commitment to youth empowerment and economic participation by investing E200,000 in the ESCCOM High Schools Short Film Competition 2026.
Through this investment, FNB is positioning young people not only as creatives but as future contributors to Eswatini’s digital and creative economy.
Speaking at the official launch, FNB Eswatini Foundation Board Member Clement Dlamini said the initiative strongly aligns with the Foundation’s mandate to invest in programmes that develop skills and create opportunities for young people. “This is an investment in talent, confidence and possibility,” said Dlamini.
“It positions Eswatini’s youth to participate meaningfully in the creative and digital economy while preserving our cultural voice.” Dlamini noted that the rapid global growth in content creation presents real opportunities for young people, making it essential to equip learners with practical, future-focused skills early on.
The Foundation’s support reflects broader recognition that the creative sector can generate employment, stimulate entrepreneurship, and contribute to economic diversification. The initiative has also received endorsement from the Ministry of Education and Training, with ESCCOM highlighting its strong alignment with the Competency-Based Curriculum, particularly in fostering creativity, collaboration, communication, and hands-on learning.
Beyond the classroom, stakeholders believe the competition could have a lasting economic impact. ESCCOM emphasized that today’s student filmmakers could become tomorrow’s directors, production company owners, digital innovators, or creative entrepreneurs, contributing to job creation and the growth of Eswatini’s creative industries.
The FNB Eswatini Foundation commended ESCCOM, UNESCO, the Ministry of Education and Training, and all partners for creating a platform that transforms creativity into opportunity. Addressing students directly, Dlamini encouraged participants to embrace the moment.
“This is your stage. Tell your stories boldly, learn with intention and create with purpose,” he said. With strong financial backing, institutional partnerships and a clear development vision, the ESCCOM High Schools Short Film Competition is emerging not only as a creative showcase but also as a strategic investment in Eswatini’s youth, culture and future economy, with the FNB Eswatini Foundation playing a leading role in shaping that future.