Netflix, in collaboration with the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC), has introduced “Women in Film – Bring Your Story to Life,” a groundbreaking initiative designed to nurture up to 25 emerging Arab women filmmakers. This program, part of Netflix’s Fund for Creative Equity, aims to cultivate the next generation of female talent across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, and Kuwait.
The initiative invites both participants of the previous Women in Film program and new talents to collaborate on group projects under the mentorship of industry experts. Each team will create a short fiction film, supported by a $25,000 budget provided by Netflix. The program encompasses virtual script consultations and pre-shoot planning, followed by hands-on editing and post-production sessions in Saudi Arabia.
Nuha Al Tayeb, Director of Content for the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey at Netflix, emphasized the company’s commitment to amplifying women’s voices in the region, stating, “Our long-standing partnership with AFAC has uncovered a generation of promising Arab talent, and we are dedicated to ensuring that women are represented both on and off camera.”
Rima Mismar, Executive Director of AFAC, highlighted the impact of the partnership: “We are glad to expand our support to filmmakers through this partnership with Netflix, providing mentorship and a platform for learning and experimenting for emerging women filmmakers.”
The program is open to women under 28 who have directed no more than one short film outside of their studies. Applicants can apply as a team with a complete project or as individuals for technical roles. An independent jury will select five projects based on quality, with an online matchmaking process available to help incomplete teams find the necessary technical skills.
This initiative is another step in Netflix’s ongoing commitment to empowering Arab women filmmakers through its ‘Because She Created’ initiatives, continuing its efforts to build the region’s talent pipeline and support authentic storytelling.
Cliff Notes
Eligibility Criteria:
Age: You must be under 28 years old.
Experience: Applicants should have directed no more than one short film outside of their academic studies.
Project: Submit a story treatment and draft script for a short fiction film.
Application Formats:
Team Submission: Apply as a complete team with a writer, director, and producer, along with your project proposal.
Individual Submission: If you’re looking to fill a technical role such as a cinematographer or editor, apply individually. You will be matched with a team during the online matchmaking process.
Selection Process:
Jury Review: An independent jury will evaluate and select five projects based on their quality and potential.
Matchmaking: For those applying individually, the matchmaking process will help you find a team that complements your skills.
Submission:
1. Follow the application guidelines provided by Netflix and AFAC.
2. Ensure that all required documents and materials are included with your application.
3. Submit your application before the deadline through the designated submission portal.
