Attention African screenwriters! Applications for AuthenticA Series Lab 2024 are open
The programme is said to be a valuable springboard for screenwriters.
Picture: Pixabay
Crystal Orderson spoke to Creative Producer, Mehret Mandefro.
Listen to their conversation in the audio clip below.
Applications for the third edition of The AuthenticA Series Lab are open.
Four African screenwriters will be afforded the opportunity to develop their original stories, in any genre and in episodic form.
The programme is said to be a valuable springboard for screenwriters.
"We're looking for people who have something to say that matters - and an original take. We're looking for authentic voices...something brave that a writer wants to say."
- Mehret Mandefro, Creative Producer
Over six months, Story Expert and Programme Co-designer, Selina Ukwuoma, and Creative Producer, Mehret Mandefro will guide screenwriters on their story development journey.
The programme, which will consist of online and in-person sessions, is set to take place from 8 September 2024 to 3 April 2025.
"The TV landscape doesn't really afford African screenwriters a lot of development financing and development funding so that's why we thought of this programme to work on that part of the value chain."
- Mehret Mandefro, Creative Producer
Mandefro says there is definitely an appetite for African stories told by those from the continent.
"The stories that have been told about Africa, for a long time, have positioned Africa in a place of weakness."
- Mehret Mandefro, Creative Producer
"I think the talent and the kinds of stories that the young makers are starting to tell are exactly what we need for this particular moment."
- Mehret Mandefro, Creative Producer
Applications close on 7 June 2024.
For more information, click here.
Scroll up to listen to the full interview.