South Africa’s Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) has announced that submissions are now open for the 17th edition of Talents Durban, an exciting talent development program in partnership with the Berlin International Film Festival.
Talents Durban is a forum for African film professionals that offers a continental networking and project development platform. It explores the intricacies of movie-making and provides opportunities for African screenwriters and directors with fiction, documentary, animation, and hybrid projects in development across various media formats such as film, television series, web series, and content for mobile platforms.
Talents Durban is scheduled to take place from July 19 to 22, 2024, alongside the Durban FilmMart, Africa’s premier film finance and co-production market, in Durban, South Africa.
Selected participants, chosen by a panel of industry experts, will engage in mentorship labs, workshops, discussions, and specialized programs tailored for specific disciplines, including directing and scriptwriting.
Magdalene Reddy, the director of Durban FilmMart Institute, said, “Building upon the legacy of Talents Durban’s impactful journey over the last 16 years, we are excited to announce the 17th edition. Talents Durban is more than just a program; it’s a dynamic force propelling the future of African cinema. Through mentorship, workshops, and the unique hybrid format for 2024, we aim to fortify the foundation for emerging talent, fostering artistic excellence and sustainable connections within the industry. This is a celebration of the rich diversity and potential within African storytelling.”
The program aims to integrate both online and physical formats. The 17th edition will consist of an eight-week online mentorship and a four-day in-person summit parallel to the Durban FilmMart.