Netflix, in partnership with the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture has launched a training programme for emerging female filmmakers.
It aims to introduce the creative filmmaking process and the different roles women can play behind the camera.
The programme, called ‘Women in Film: Introduction to the Creative Process,’ will feature a series of workshops and insights into today’s filmmaking industry.
Nuha el Tayeb, Director, Content Middle East, Africa and Turkey at Netflix, said: “At Netflix, we are passionate about amplifying women’s voices behind the camera. That includes a commitment to authentic storytelling which is intrinsically linked to developing the region’s talent pipeline.
“AFAC has been a long-standing partner and has done some incredible work for underrepresented voices. Through this partnership, we are discovering a wealth of promising Arab talent and are working to ensure that women are represented both on and off camera.”
A group of 45 women aged 21 to 27 who have graduated from film studies and reside in Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the UAE, will be selected to take part.
Participants will be introduced to scriptwriting and the creative process of filmmaking by established female filmmakers from the Arab region.
It will help to develop the talent pipeline and introduce storytelling as a viable career option for the next generation of Arab women.
All participants will also be provided with the opportunity to visit Netflix’s production hub in Europe early next year.
Rima Mismar, Executive Director at AFAC, said: “Throughout our 16 years in operation, we have been committed to supporting bold creative voices of women and men artists, who are trying to push boundaries and challenge status-quos.
“In film specifically, 44 per cent of supported films to date are by women filmmakers. Through this renewed partnership with Netflix, we build on that commitment, extending our technical support to emerging women talents and allowing for a deeper understanding of the inequities and inequalities that women are subjected to in the film industry.”
Netflix remains committed to amplifying women’s stories, building the talent pipeline and supporting Arab women filmmakers through its ‘Because She Created’ initiatives.
The Women in Films: Introduction to the Creative Process programme is part of Netflix’s fund for creative equity, which exists to help build new opportunities for underrepresented communities within entertainment.
Last year, the streaming platform also partnered with AFAC to provide a one-time grant of $250,000 to support women producers and directors in the Arab world.
