Nigerian ed-tech startup Magic Lab Academy is aiming to overcome the shortage of skilled talent in the animation industry through online and physical training programmes.
Conceived of in 2023 by co-founders Ferdy Adimefe, Chekwube Okonkwo, and Duru Azubuike, following the launch of their successful animation studio, Magic Lab runs an online learning platform to train animators.
It came about after the founders recognised a critical shortage of skilled talent in the industry, which not only affected their studio but also highlighted a broader industry need.
“Magic Lab Academy identified a significant gap in the market – the need for an authentic and culturally focused animation studio that understands the unique challenges and opportunities in training young African talent to meet global market demands. While there are numerous animation schools and programmes available worldwide, few cater specifically to the African context, particularly in terms of cultural relevance, accessibility, and hands-on training,” Adimefe told Disrupt Africa.
“In Africa, there is a burgeoning interest in animation, fueled by a rich tradition of storytelling and a youthful population eager to engage with new media. However, most existing programmes are either too generic, lacking in cultural context, or fail to provide the practical, hands-on experiences necessary to truly develop a student’s potential.”
Magic Lab Academy addresses this gap by offering a curriculum that is not only technically rigorous but also deeply rooted in African culture and storytelling traditions.
“At Magic Lab Academy, we have developed a hybrid training model that combines the best of both in-person and online learning,” said Adimefe.
“This flexible approach ensures that our programmes are accessible to a wider range of students, regardless of their geographic location or personal circumstances. Our hybrid model allows students to engage in live, interactive sessions with professional tutors while also having the freedom to complete coursework at their own pace.”
Magic Lab Academy is funded through a combination of personal investments from the founders, and a significant seed round from an angel investor passionate about youth education and technology.
“This initial financial support allowed us to establish the academy, develop our curriculum, and launch our first sessions successfully. Over time, our funding model has evolved to include various strategic partnerships and collaborations, which have not only provided financial backing but also enhanced our programme’s reach and impact,” said Adimefe.
Magic Lab Academy has made significant strides in training and empowering young African animators since its inception.
“Over the years, we have trained over 400 individuals, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the animation industry,” Adimefe said.
“This extensive training has laid a strong foundation for the academy, demonstrating our capability to nurture talent and meet industry demands.”
Last year, the company launched its diploma programme, designed to offer an even more comprehensive and structured pathway for students aspiring to careers in animation.
“This programme has attracted considerable interest, and we currently have 100 students enrolled. The diploma programme is intensive, covering a wide range of skills from traditional animation techniques to cutting-edge digital tools. It provides students with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring they are well-prepared to enter the professional world upon graduation,” said Adimefe.
