Aspirant filmmakers from across Nelson Mandela Bay have been working tirelessly since mid-January to create and complete their own broadcast-standard short documentary films as part of the National Film and Video Foundation’s (NFVF) Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme.
The training programme, “Doc in the Bay”, has seen 15 local novice filmmakers receive intensive theoretical and practical workshops.
They have also been provided with the necessary resources and professional equipment to complete their films.
The workshops, conducted by professional local, national and international producers and crew, have been punted as ensuring the filmmakers get the most current information.
Project manager Warda Mallick said not only were the filmmakers getting a jam-packed programme along with all the resources, but would also be remunerated for their time, as the training formed part of the NFVF Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme.
“The programme will create employment for about 50 individuals and businesses over the coming weeks,” Mallick said.
The workshop started on January 15 and will end on February 9.
Accomplished national producer Tarryn Crossman, from TIA Productions, and Finnish producer Toni Panula have been sharing their experiences, knowledge and industry secrets through online sessions, and the programme offers a NQF Level 5 accreditation qualification in producer unit standards.
Facilitator Justin Oliphant said initiatives such as these were much needed in local communities.
“They create opportunities for factual content to be produced in our own community, and for our own stories to be told in our own voices,” Oliphant said.
Clayton Thom of Shoot97 Productions said while producers were the ones who created and provided employment for film crew, the local industry was lacking in this respect.
“[We] developed this programme to advance local producers and crews to broadcast level.
“It provides the filmmakers with information on how to raise funds and monetise their work.
“The programme will also upskill the crew to be able to film to a high broadcast standard,” Thom said.
Completed films will be screened in late February and will be broadcast on local television station Mpuma Kapa TV in April.
HeraldLIVE