Here's How Netflix Is Teaming Up With AFAC To Boost Arab Female Directors
Netflix and the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (Afac) are set to train more female filmmakers in a bid to amplify women's voices in the region. Up to 25 creatives will be chosen for the Women in Film – Bring Your Story to Life programme.
The initiative is part of Netflix's Fund for Creative Equity, which aims to develop female talent across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Egypt, and Jordan. This follows last year's successful Women in Film: Introduction to the Creative Process initiative.
Supporting Female Filmmakers
Participants will receive guidance from industry mentors as they produce a short fiction film with a $25,000 budget. The support includes virtual consultations on scriptwriting and pre-shoot planning, along with in-person assistance in Saudi Arabia during editing and post-production.
Nuha Eltayeb, director of content for Netflix Middle East, Africa, and Turkey, told The National: "This initiative is part of our broader commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the creative industry. We believe in the power of authentic storytelling and are committed to sharing the unique voices of women from the Arab region with the world. The programme nurtures the next generation of female filmmakers, offering them resources, mentorship and a platform to achieve their first credit."
Eligibility and Application Process
The programme is open to women under 28 who have directed no more than one short film outside their studies. Applications can be submitted as a team with a story treatment and draft script for a short fiction film. Individuals can also apply for technical roles such as cinematographer or editor.
An independent jury will select five projects. An online process will help form groups among participants to cover all technical skills required.
Afac's Continued Support
"Afac has been active in supporting filmmakers and artists for the past 18 years, contributing to the production of more than 500 films," said Rima Mismar, executive director of Afac. "We are glad to be able to expand our support to filmmakers through this partnership with Netflix, coupling financial support with mentorship and accompaniment, and providing a platform for learning and experimenting for emerging women filmmakers."
Applications for Women in Film – Bring Your Story to Life will be accepted through Afac's website until Sunday. Selected applicants will be notified on October 17.
Previous Initiatives
This is not Netflix and Afac's first collaboration. In August last year, they launched Women in Film: Introduction to the Creative Process. This programme aimed at supporting young female filmmakers in five Arab countries held workshops in Dubai, Jeddah, and Cairo. Participants also visited Netflix's content hub in Tres Cantos during its final leg.
The ongoing efforts by Netflix and Afac aim to provide emerging female filmmakers with essential resources and opportunities. By nurturing new talent through mentorships and financial backing, these initiatives strive to elevate women's voices within the film industry.
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