The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) has officially begun accepting submissions for the 17th edition of Talents Durban, a dynamic talent development programme presented in collaboration with the Berlin International Film Festival. Set to coincide with the Durban FilmMart, Africa’s premier film finance and co-production market, the event is scheduled for July 19 to 22, 2024, in Durban, South Africa.
Open to African screenwriters and directors across various media formats such as film, television series, web series, and mobile platforms, Talents Durban serves as a vital platform for networking and project development. Magdalene Reddy, Director of Durban FilmMart Institute, expressed enthusiasm for the 17th edition, stating, “Talents Durban is more than just a programme; it’s a dynamic force propelling the future of African cinema.”
The 2024 edition aims to embrace a hybrid format, integrating both online and physical components. The programme will feature an eight-week online mentorship followed by a four-day in-person summit alongside the Durban FilmMart. Four hands-on training labs, covering storytelling, animation, documentary, and film criticism, will be central to the development initiative.
Applicants, African citizens aged at least 18 by July 1, 2024, can submit their work until January 26, 2024. The programme will be conducted primarily in English, with provisions for French and Portuguese participants for specific sessions. Notably, the DFMI will cover accommodation and accreditation costs for selected talents, while participants are responsible for their travel expenses.
For more information on eligibility and the application process, interested individuals can visit the [official website: https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/talents-durban-application/
The call for projects is open until January 26, 2024, with selected talents participating in online mentorship between May and July, followed by the physical event from July 19 to 22, 2024.
Talents Durban, a global initiative founded in partnership with the Berlin International Film Festival, is part of DFMI’s commitment to fortifying the foundation for emerging talent and fostering connections within the African film industry. The Durban FilmMart Institute serves as the business hub of the African film industry, offering year-round developmental programs and an annual market, including the recently launched online platform Filmmart.africa.
