Realness Institute, in partnership with the leading streaming entertainment service, Netflix, has called for submissions from Nigerian writers and filmmakers to its Episodic Lab and Development Executive Traineeship (DET) 2022 programme.
The Episodic Lab and DET programme seeks to support scriptwriters and mid-career industry professionals from Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya who are seeking opportunities to develop their original story ideas in any genre and are looking to enhance their skills as story consultants. Application submissions close on January 14, 2022.
Realness Institute offers the Episodic Lab participants the opportunity of pitching their incubated stories to Netflix executives at the end of the programme, as well as offers DET participants a deeper understanding of the story development process, exposure to a more nuanced approach in the support of writers while simultaneously holding writers accountable for their creative works.
DET participants are expected to work alongside creative producers and story experts in the development of their concepts and series pitch decks. They will also engage with international and local guest speakers every week for the duration of the programme.
The Director of Development and Partnerships at Realness Institute, Mehret Mandefro, pointed out that experience from the first LAB and Traineeship was that there was a deep desire for Africans to create their own narratives.
He explained that Realness Institute was not just stopping at the development of the participants, but would also give each participant a monthly stipend of $2,000 during the incubation period which would take place online between May 1 and July 31, 2022. The stipend is to cover living expenses as they focus on their concept development while being mentored.
Commenting on Netflix’s partnership with Realness Institute, Netflix Manager for Grow Creative Africa, Allison Triegaardt, said the development, nurturing and support of talent pipelines gave new voices a chance to be heard.
“This is key for Netflix as we contribute to the growth of the film and TV industry and honour our commitment to the African creative community,” Triegaardt said.
