Mission Atlas: Africa’s 3D Challenge Takes Off
When AfroVFX announced Mission Atlas, it wasn’t just another competition. It was an open call for African 3D artists to show their creativity and celebrate their culture. Supported by Autodesk Media & Entertainment, the competition invites artists across the continent to create short, powerful videos inspired by the passion of African football.
This contest isn’t only about prize money. It’s about giving artists a real chance to step onto the international stage, with access to professional tools, mentorship, and even travel opportunities.
The Mission Behind Mission Atlas
Mission Atlas gives participants free access to a special library of high-quality 3D assets created by AfroVFX artists. These assets include stadiums, landmarks, and monuments that reflect Africa’s rich culture. For contestants, these aren’t just digital tools — they are a canvas for telling stories that showcase the strength and beauty of African creativity.
AfroVFX’s mission is clear: empower African talent and amplify their voices. Alongside the asset library, participants also get access to the Autodesk Media & Entertainment Collection. They’ll learn advanced techniques in crowd simulation, lighting, and cinematic layout. So, the competition doubles as a training ground where artists improve their technical skills while creating powerful stories.
How Mission Atlas Works
1. Registration & Storyboard Submission
Artists start by submitting a portfolio and a storyboard of their concept. From these, AfroVFX selects up to 30 semi-finalists.
2. Finalist Selection & Bootcamp
Semi-finalists join the CGAfrica platform and the jury narrows them down to five finalist teams. These teams attend an online bootcamp where they receive the 3D asset pack, Autodesk tools, and guidance on the competition.
3. Final Production
Finalists get hands-on training in tools like Golaem for crowd simulation and Maya for lighting and layout. With support from mentors, they must then produce a short video — no longer than 1 minute 2 seconds — blending AfroVFX assets with their own creative vision.
Who Can Join?
To keep things fair, Mission Atlas has clear rules:
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You must live in an African country and be at least 18 years old.
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You must be the original creator of the work you submit.
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You can enter as an individual or as an informal team (but formal studios cannot join).
The jury will judge final videos based on:
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How closely they match the original storyboard.
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Creativity and originality.
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Technical quality (animation, lighting, rendering, crowd simulation).
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Storytelling strength and connection to the theme.
Prizes & Opportunities
Mission Atlas offers more than just trophies. Winners receive prizes that can change their careers:
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1st Place: $500 cash prize, an all-expenses-paid trip to Morocco, an invitation to Lisolo 2026 in Abidjan, a one-year Autodesk license, specialised AfroVFX training, and access to the online bootcamp.
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2nd Place: All-expenses-paid trip to Lisolo 2026 in Abidjan, a one-year Autodesk license, AfroVFX training, and bootcamp access.
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Public Choice Award: An all-expenses-paid trip to Morocco and bootcamp access.
Winners are decided by both the jury.
More Than a Competition
Yes, the prizes are exciting. But the real value lies in the community you join. Finalists become part of the AfroVFX network — gaining mentorship, resources, and opportunities to collaborate with professionals across Africa and beyond.
By celebrating African football, Mission Atlas unites the continent’s pride with its creative power. It’s a stage for African 3D artists — whether experienced professionals or self-taught storytellers — to showcase their talent to the world.
If you’re ready to take part, Mission Atlas is your chance to create, compete, and shine.
