The upcoming Durban FilmMart (DFM) 2024, scheduled from July 19 to 22, will highlight environmental issues through its dedicated Climate Focus initiative.
The theme for this year’s event is “African Visions Unleashed: From Disruption to Accountability.”
This theme underscores the film industry’s crucial role in addressing the climate crisis and promoting sustainable filmmaking practices.
In collaboration with Doc Society – Climate Story Unit, Climate Story Lab South Africa, STEPS, and the Global Impact Producers Alliance (GIPA), DFM aims to raise awareness about environmental challenges and inspire impactful storytelling. We invite you to be part of this meaningful cause.
The Climate Focus at DFM 2024 will feature industry sessions and workshops led by a panel of esteemed film professionals and activists. These include Anita Khanna (Uhuru Productions), Emily Wanja (Doc Society – Climate Story Unit), Nasreen Al-Amin (Surge Africa and Climate Story Lab Lagos), and more. Sessions like “Don’t Stop Talking About Climate Chaos!” will delve into the creative community’s role in addressing climate issues and their impact on African communities.
“Impact Strategy in Action” will equip impact producers with strategies to enhance the reach and effectiveness of climate-themed films, with a focus on audience engagement and partnership leveraging. Another session, “Innovative Partnerships and Pathways to Reach Audiences,” will draw parallels between the climate crisis and past global challenges like HIV/AIDS, advocating for collective action and media support.
The event will culminate with the Impact Hackathon, a collaborative platform where participants will work together on projects demonstrating the potential to drive change through media and outreach strategies.
Aspiring impact producers will have opportunities to network with GIPA members, exploring avenues to join this growing field. The Climate Focus at DFM 2024 is a testament to DFM’s commitment to promoting environmental advocacy through cinematic storytelling. It invites stakeholders to participate in essential conversations for a sustainable future in African cinema, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Stay tuned for updates on the entire program and join us in shaping the future of filmmaking at DFM 2024.
