Realness Institute, the South Africa-based film development organisation, together with partner the StoryBoard Collective, a Swiss philanthropic organisation supporting transformative storytelling for social change, have announced that submissions open on 30 April 2024 for AuthenticA Series Lab, a screenwriters’ development programme.

AuthenticA Series Lab, now in its third edition and designed for African screenwriters, has proved to be a valuable springboard for African storytellers to elevate their craft and amplify authentic voices from the continent. The Lab allows screenwriters to immerse themselves in a community of like-minded peers, free from usual distractions, and become fully focused on bringing their ideas to life.

Four screenwriters will be selected for the programme, which will be conducted both online and in-person from 8 September 2024 to 3 April 2025. The screenwriters, using their already existing story concepts, will work with industry experts in a programme that includes mentorship, seminars, and workshops, as well as networking. The Lab culminates in their attendance at Series Mania, in March 2025, in Lille France, the largest co-production series festival in Europe. Here they will pitch their projects to decision makers, commissioners,  broadcasters, and producers. The writers all retain the rights to their projects.

Well-known film industry development veterans Selina Ukwuoma and Mehret Mandefro will mentor the cohort, supporting and encouraging creativity and collaboration, while at the same time, developing workable “sales pitches” for their ideas.

“Our goal is simple: to provide a nurturing environment where writers can hone their skills, infuse their stories with genuine perspectives, and challenge outdated narratives about Africa,” says Ukwuoma, AuthenticA Story Expert and Co-Designer.

Deadline for applications is June 7, 2024 at 16h00 SAST.

For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit https://www.realness.institute/authentica-series-lab or email  su*********@re******.institute .