The Lunenburg Doc Fest, is proud to announce their upcoming second annual DOC Atlantic Breakthrough Program.
This initiative aims to support emerging Black, Indigenous, or Persons of Colour (BIPOC) artists in Atlantic Canada, offering them opportunities to nurture and showcase their voices in the documentary filmmaking industry.
Applications are now open for the program, as well as for the role of part-time coordinator. Millefiore Clarkes, Secretary of DOC Atlantic, expressed excitement about the upcoming year’s program and the potential it holds for this new group of storytellers and media creators.
The Breakthrough Program addresses the need for increased representation of BIPOC talent in the film industry. Selected participants will participate in a comprehensive workshop series, receive valuable mentorship, and expand their network by connecting with key decision-makers in the field.
The program will culminate in the 10th Lunenburg Doc Fest (LDF) scheduled from September 21-27, 2023, where participants will promote, market, and pitch their documentary projects. During this festival, they will have the opportunity to engage with peers and industry professionals. Additionally, the selected creators will attend the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival in Toronto in May 2024, where they will partake in professional development sessions, attend film screenings, and network with other stakeholders in the industry.
The 3-week online workshop series, beginning on July 26, 2023, will focus on elements of documentary storytelling, guiding participants in finding their unique voice, language, and story structure. The workshops will explore topics such as character development, story arcs, and connecting with the audience and subject.
The successful applicants will receive an artist fee, travel and accommodation support, full festival and industry passes, and more. The Program is designed to be accessible, and prior experience is not required for participation.
Pamela Segger, Executive Director of Lunenburg Doc Fest, emphasized their commitment to fostering equity and inclusivity within the Atlantic Canadian film industry. Segger expressed enthusiasm about leading the second edition of the DOC Atlantic Breakthrough Program, highlighting the organization’s role in amplifying new and underrepresented voices in the industry.
Atlantic Canadian citizens who identify as BIPOC and are motivated to advance their documentary projects are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is July 20, 2023, and successful applicants will be notified by July 23, 2023.
