Film Lab Africa is a pioneering accelerator initiative launched by the British Council, tailored to empower emerging filmmakers and TV producers in Nigeria. The programme is meticulously designed to provide an all-encompassing framework of support and avenues for growth, fostering enhanced skills, enriched knowledge, and expanded networks, enabling participants to showcase their creative productions effectively. Scheduled to kick-off in September 2023, Film Lab Africa will span three dynamic years, characterised by a multi-phase approach that delves into mobile phone cinematography, short film production, the intricate realm of film and TV industry entrepreneurship, script refinement, and invaluable opportunities for public presentation.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Aged between 18 to 35 years old
  • Reside in Nigeria
  • Completed Creative entrepreneurship module on the SoCreative E-learning platform. To access the platform, use this link – https://communitytraining.britishcouncil.org 
  • Possess a minimum of one credit to your name, with a script and production bible ready to go into development.

The program is open to emerging film makers that is between 18 – 35yrs old, resident in Nigeria and have a minimum of one credit in filmmaking & TV production.

Benefits 

  • Advanced proficiencies in mobile phone cinematography, short film production, and the intricate landscape of film and TV industry entrepreneurship.
  • Strengthened storytelling prowess through expert script consultations.
  • Realised short film creations, a testament to participants’ burgeoning talents.
  • Opportunity for filmmakers to present their work to a wider audience. Creating an avenue for premieres, tours, distribution, and active participation within acclaimed film festivals.
  • Networking opportunities amongst industry professionals, mentors, fellow participants, and potential collaborators, expanding their professional network.

Filmmakers become a part of a supportive community and interact with peers from diverse background, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration.Elevate your filmmaker or TV production journey with Film Lab Africa, where innovation meets expertise and dreams are cultivated into compelling realities. 

Programme Roadmap

September 2023

  • Film Lab Africa Faculty members will be unveiled
  • Filmmakers Application Opens and close (Application period is 4weeks)
  • 60 Successful Filmmakers announced

October 2023
Capacity building Accelerator for Filmmakers

  • Data Stipend Allocation for Virtual Training 
  • Accelerator – Ten weeks of Virtual Training for Emerging filmmakers 
  • Script Consultations 
  • Pre-production training sessions 
  • Coaching and Mentoring by UK & Nigerian Industry Professionals 
  • The Business of Film & Television 

December 2023
Film production season

  • Production of short films of various categories 
  • Award of grants to produce films 
  • Post-production support  

To be announced dates
Showcase Season

  • Film Festival Tours 
  • Film Premiere in Nigeria, Africa & UK 
  • Film Screenings 
  • Marketing & Distribution 
  • Post-Program Support 

Film Lab Africa will unfold in phases over the ensuing three years, with subsequent cohorts joining in successive years.

Application Process

  • Fill out the online application form. For ease, download the application questions (found at the bottom of this page) and prepare your responses.
  • Provide details about your creative background and aspirations.
  • Shortlisted filmmakers will be contacted for further steps.

For More Information,

Visit the Official Webpage