The Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) has officially opened submissions for the 18th edition of Talents Durban, its flagship talent development programme for African filmmakers and critics. Scheduled for July 2025 in Durban, South Africa, this initiative will run alongside the prestigious Durban FilmMart, Africa’s leading film finance and co-production market, according to a statement.
A collaborative effort with the Berlin International Film Festival, Talents Durban is a vital platform for African storytellers, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, mentorship and professional growth. Over the years, it has become a launchpad for emerging filmmakers, helping them refine their craft and connect with global industry leaders.
The 2025 edition invites African screenwriters and directors with fiction, documentary, animation, or hybrid projects in development. Additionally, emerging film critics and journalists are encouraged to apply through the Talents Press programme, which aims to reshape the narrative of African film criticism.
“This programme is a testament to the incredible diversity and transformative potential within African cinema,” said Magdalene Reddy, director of DFMI. “Talent development is the cornerstone of a thriving film industry, and Talents Durban plays a critical role in empowering the next generation of African storytellers.”
What’s New in 2025?
Participants will benefit from an eight-week online mentorship programme starting in May, culminating in a four-day in-person summit during the Durban FilmMart. This hybrid approach ensures a comprehensive experience combining remote learning and face-to-face networking.
Four dedicated labs will anchor the programme:
Storytelling Lab: Enhancing narrative depth for feature films, short films, and web series.
Animation Lab: Developing character design and production strategies for animation projects.
Doc Lab: Supporting documentary filmmakers with project-specific mentorship.
Talents Press: Training three emerging film critics in festival coverage, interviews, and digital storytelling.
Application Details
African citizens aged 18 and above can apply by submitting a project in development and samples of past work. The programme primarily operates in English, with sessions available in French and Portuguese. DFMI will cover accommodation and accreditation costs, though participants must arrange their own travel.
Key Dates
Submissions open: 10 December 2024
Deadline: 09 February 2025
Programme timeline: May–July (online mentorship); July (in-person summit)
For more information and to apply, visit www.durbanfilmmart.co.za or email info@durbanfilmmart.com.
Talents Durban continues to spotlight Africa’s rich storytelling potential, cementing its place as a crucial incubator for the continent’s cinematic visionaries.
