Inspiring SA doccie on Disney+

Service is building platform celebrating the continent.

- Citizen reporter

For over 100 years, Disney has entertained the world with beloved stories and characters that create shared connections across multiple generations, through storytellers who showcase the rich tapestry of the world's communities, identities, history, and traditions. On this continent, it's no different, with stories of Africa being celebrated.

Premiering this month on Disney+ is The Academy, the latest example of this commitment. Part of Disney's People & Places documentary series, the film is directed by Tribeca-winning South African filmmaker Julia Jansch (My Father the Mover) and produced by Cape Town-based Southern Point Pictures.

Set at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, the story follows Azile Arosi, a young woman from Khayelitsha who discovers healing and purpose through sailing.

What begins as an unfamiliar world soon becomes a path to self-belief and empowerment, culminating in her leading a race around Robben Island.

Guided by Academy manager Lindani Mchunu, Arosi's journey is a deeply personal story of resilience, identity, and access. Shot against the dramatic backdrop of Table Bay with sweeping visuals and an emotive score.

The Academy challenges inequality and redefines legacy institutions, proving that, in the right hands, sport can be revolutionary. Jansch captures this beautifully, once again using film to spotlight everyday heroes.

And The Academy is just one of many stories you'll find on Disney+ told by storytellers from the continent or inspired by Africa:

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