British Council Nigeria set to empower emerging filmmakers, TV producers

British Council is accepting applications for its program through its Film Lab Africa, which is designed to empower emerging filmmakers and TV producers in Nigeria.

This all-expense training aims to provide an all-encompassing framework of support and avenues for growth, while fostering skills, knowledge, and networks, to enable participants to showcase their creative productions effectively.

Program details

In a document seen by Nairametrics, the program is set to commence in September 2023 and extend over three years. It will also involve a multi-phase approach, encompassing mobile phone cinematography, short film production, exploration of film and TV industry entrepreneurship, script refinement, and opportunities for public presentation.

Program roadmap

• Capacity building Accelerator for Filmmakers
• Data Stipend Allocation for Virtual Training
• Accelerator – Ten weeks of Virtual Training for Emerging filmmakers
• Script Consultations
• Pre-production training sessions
• Coaching and Mentoring by UK & Nigerian Industry Professionals
• The Business of Film & Television
• Production of short films of various categories
• Award of grants to produce films
• Post-production support
• Film Festival Tours
• Film Premiere in Nigeria, Africa & UK
• Film Screenings
• Marketing & Distribution
• Post-Program Support
• Film Lab Africa will unfold in phases over the ensuing three years, with subsequent cohorts joining in successive years.

Program highlights 

• Accelerator lab
• Three-year cohorts
• Hybrid training covering technical aspects, business skills, and mobile phone cinematography.
• Interactive film club sessions
• Coaching and mentorship
• Script consultations
• Two-stage pitch sessions
• Short film production
• Showcasing opportunities

Program benefits 

• Enhanced skills in mobile phone cinematography, short film production, and the ability to navigate the landscape of the film and TV industry.
• Improved storytelling abilities through expert script consultations.
• Realization of short film projects, showcasing participants’ growing talents.
• Opportunities for filmmakers to showcase their work to broader audiences, including premieres, tours, distribution, and participation in prestigious film festivals.
• Networking prospects with industry professionals, mentors, fellow participants, and potential collaborators, expanding their professional connections.
• Integration into a supportive community where filmmakers can engage with peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.

Eligibility Criteria

• Aged between 18 to 35 years old
• Must reside in Nigeria
• Must have completed the Creative entrepreneurship module on the SoCreative E-learning platform. To access the platform, use this link 
• Possess a minimum of one credit to your name, with a script and production bible ready to go into development.

Application Process

• Fill out or download the application form 
• Provide details about your creative background and aspiration
• Shortlisted filmmakers will then be contacted for further steps.