With the first free and fair elections in its history looming, The ancient city of Mandalay provided a fascinating glimpse into what was recently the closed world of Burma (or Myanmar) as it comes to terms with change.

African Masters: Rising Stars seeks out the emerging talent of some the region’s burgeoning art scenes across four countries; Angola, Ivory Coast, Tanzania and Ethiopia. Each 30 minute episode contains intimate interviews and revealing stories around emerging artists; reflecting on their art, inspiration and methods – blowing away preconceptions. This visually stunning exploration of Africa’s art scene includes its latest success story, Angola’s 2013 triumph at the Venice Biennale where it won the Golden Lion award; the art world’s highest international accolade.

Leo Johnson returns to Mozambique after more than 25 years to find a rapidly developing country. Badly affected by the floods ten years ago, Quelimane is now making national headlines because of its dynamic mayor Manuel de Arajo, a UK-educated former human rights worker who swept to power a year ago with anti-corruption promises.

In Zaruma, southern Ecuador, gold has been exploited for more than 500 years. Some 10,000 people in and around Zaruma still live off “artisanal” mining. For One Square Mile, Robert Goudl filmed in one such mine with presenter Leo Johnson to witness the challenges workers face.

Part of the Euronews series Life, this episode explores the rejuvenated oasis that runs through the heart of the Saudi Arabian capital.

Part of the Euronews Life series, this film looks at the incredible growth of Riyadh in one of the most extreme climates on earth.

South Africa’s so-called “born-free” generation now accounts for some 40% of the population. Born since the country’s first fully democratic elections in 1994, they have grown up without apartheid and the struggles of South Africa’s older generation. Here, six “born frees” talk about life growing up in the new South Africa.

Part of the Euronews series Life, this short film looks at university life in the Saudi capital, Riyadh.

Part of the Euronews series, Life, this film uncovers the history of the founding of Saudi Arabia at its birthplace, Addriyah, now a ruined city in the desert which is a UNESCO World heritage site.