Online streaming giant Netflix has partnered with the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC) to launch a program named 'Women in Film - Bring Your Story to Life' in multiple Arab countries. 

According to a press statement, this initiative aims to provide continued training and development for up to 25 emerging Arab women filmmakers.

This program is also in line with Netflix's Fund for Creative Equity which seeks to foster the next generation of female talent in the film industry across Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Jordan, and Kuwait.

Nurturing Women Talents in Entertainment Industry 

In the press statement, the OTT giant noted that the pan-regional initiative is open to participants of the Women in Film program and new talents alike, inviting them to collaborate on a group project under the guidance of industry mentors.

Moreover, each group will develop a short fiction film with a $25,000 budget provided to bring their stories to life. This program also includes script virtual consultation and pre-shoot planning, followed by in-person editing and post-production support sessions in Saudi Arabia.

"At Netflix, we are strongly committed to amplifying the voices of women in the region. This initiative further underscores our unfettered support for authentic storytelling and developing the region's talent pipeline," said Nuha Al Tayeb, Director, Content for Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey at Netflix. 

She added: "Our long-standing partnership with AFAC has uncovered a generation of promising Arab talent, and we are dedicated to ensuring that women are represented both on and off camera." 

Qualifications to Apply for the Program

According to the press statement, women under the age of 28 can apply for this program. 

Applications can be submitted in two formats: as a team with a complete project or as individuals for technical positions such as cinematographer or editor. 

Moreover, applicants must apply with a story and draft script for a short fiction film, and teams must consist of core members including a writer, director, and producer.

"We are glad to be able to expand our support to filmmakers through this partnership with Netflix, coupling the financial support with mentorship and accompaniment, and providing a platform for learning and experimenting for emerging women filmmakers," said Rima Mismar, executive director of AFAC.