The Youth Documentary Project, a French and South African initiative by JBA
Production alongside the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and Arte France,
is seeking applications from skilled or emerging filmmakers to participate in a
long-term developmental production workshop, which will ultimately produce a
feature film.
Jean-Loic Portron, Director at JBA Production, will conduct the project with the
support of Natives At Large directors Ramadan Suleman and Bhekizizwe
Peterson as well as Jungle Works producer Neville Josie.
The history of the project goes back to the latter years of apartheid, when 12
trainee filmmakers were selected to take part in a documentary training
workshop. Their goal was to produce a collection of films showing the effects of
segregation in South Africa, which could be made into a feature length
documentary. The result was a film titled South African Chronicles which
broadcast on six European television channels.
The remaining participants from the workshop produced My Vote is my Secret six years later, as the country transitioned out of the struggle. Both films won numerous awards at international festivals, and the aim of the 2014 workshop is to recreate a group of filmmakers on the same principles – to produce a film which takes stock of the current climate, 20 years after democracy.
The workshop is open to young filmmakers born in the late 1980’s and while
documentary experience is recommended, it is not a requirement.
The project is due to start in early 2015 and although the workshop is taking
place in Johannesburg, filming is not restricted to the city. Applicants from all
over South Africa are welcome to apply but should note that participation
requires full-time commitment and availability. There will be no fee as the
workshop is free and transport, accommodation and per diems are to be
provided.
Submission Requirements:
• A one-page synopsis on the following theme: What true story would you
tell a stranger living abroad, so they could grasp a South African reality 20 years
after the first democratic elections?
• A CV and, if available, a portfolio of previous work
Selection will be done after an interview process.
Deadline: 21 July 2014
Applications should be submitted via email to Jean-Loic Portron at:
portronjl@gmail.com
