Application Deadline:  April 30, 2023

The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), in partnership with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), is pleased to announce the opening of submissions for the Youth Filmmaker Project.  The filmmakers will be guided by the team at Sisanda Henna Leadership and Sisanda Henna Films, facilitators of the NFVF project.

The Youth Filmmaker Project targets previously disadvantaged youths to be guided in developing, writing and/or directing their own 24-minute debut short films which will become their calling-cards in the international industry. Only the best 10 scripts will be produced by the facilitating company. The program seeks aspirant, talented, and hardworking scriptwriters, scriptwriter-directors and directors to apply. This project is targeted towards aspirant young filmmakers who have a desire to break into the industry and would like to pursue a career in script-writing and/or directing. This program will ensure that each participant has a complete script and film that will form part of their portfolio in the future.

OBJECTIVES

To seek out remarkable storytellers from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and develop regionally based film-making talent, which will bring new perspectives to our South African and ultimately the African and global audience.

To nurture, support and promote young writer/directors in South Africa through strategically developed training laboratories, workshops and mentorship.

WORKSHOPPING

Scripts will be developed and workshopped over a dedicated development period, followed by practical workshopping with a director and key technical crews, with the aim of the first ten films being completed in 2023/24.

ELIGIBILITY

In order to be considered for this opportunity, the applicant must meet the following requirements:

1. Between the ages of 18-35.
2. Must be South African/ permanent resident.
3. Have a strong written concept or directing potential
4. Have not directed a professional film/ professional episode of television fiction. 
5. Be a historically disadvantaged Individual as defined in the constitution of South Africa.
6. Be able to set aside the requisite time over a period of 12 months to complete the programme.
7. Only fictional narratives will be accepted.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Eligible candidates for the project must:

• Demonstrate a passion for the film industry / film-making and the extent of their experience in industry. This includes sending motivational video. 
• Have a strong written concept for a 24-minute stand alone film with a clearly thought-out premise or controlling idea that would allow it to be packaged with other projects under the theme of “Little Africa” – if applying for the Scriptwriter or Scriptwriter-Director role
• The program allows directors only to apply without a concept. These applicants need to demonstrate knowledge and experience in the film-making process, talent, skill as well as the willingness and commitment to succeed. The program will pair writer-only participants with director-only participants.
• Must understand that aspects of their original story might change for the purposes of producing the script.
• Be willing to meet the demands of the film industry and be present at every training and workshop.
• Demonstrate a willingness and ability to work as a part of a team in the pursuit of the same objective.
• Understand the value of, and is able to, work under pressure and tight schedules.

NB: filmmakers will need to pitch at production stage and the best candidates will proceed to filming/ directing the films.

Application Procedure:

All applications must submit the following documentation in for consideration:

1. Concept for a 24-minute film including pitch deck/ story treatment that includes character descriptions, world of story and statement of intent  and a detailed synopsis. (Scriptwriter or scriptwriter-Directors only). Do not submit full scripts. Max 5 pages excluding a visual pitch deck (if submitting one)

• Links to showreel or clips of previous work and behind the scenes pictures (if available)
• Cover letter and/or video containing the following:
  • Who you are and why you are passionate about your story, and film-making.
  • How you would benefit from the programme, your 5-7 vision
  • Discuss your background, education and experience highlighting your achievements
• Detailed CV
• Certified copy of ID document (no older than 3 months).
• Biography highlighting your achievements and picture of yourself
• And any other documentation, video clips or pictures motivating/ demonstrating your skills, aptitude, work ethic, in writing and directing film.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the NFVF Call for Youth Filmmaker Project.