ABOUT US
The Raise a Filmmaker Initiative is here to Revolutionise Nigerian Filmmaking Talent Development.
OVERVIEW
Raise a Filmmaker Initiative is a hands-on training and mentorship programme designed to give emerging filmmakers their first real on-set experience.
For every participating film or media project, a shadow crew member is assigned to each department; Directing, Production, Camera, Sound, Art, Costume, Post-production, and more. These participants work alongside experienced professionals, gaining practical skills, industry exposure, and professional credits.
RAFI is rooted in the belief that 'access', not talent, is often the biggest barrier to entering the film industry. By embedding learning directly into live productions, Raise a Filmmaker bridges the gap between training and employment, empowering the next generation of storytellers.
HOW TO APPLY/ TERMS & CONDITIONS
Complete the online registration form and select your area(s) of interest.
Applicants will be asked to submit:
- A short personal statement
- Relevant experience (if any, but prior on-set experience is not required)
- Availability during the programme period
Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for an interview or informal chat.
Eligibility
This opportunity is open to aspiring and early-career filmmakers. Applicants must be 18 years or older, and must have the legal right to work or volunteer in Nigeria where the project is taking place.
A genuine interest in film, storytelling, or production is essential.
Terms & Conditions
Participants are expected to commit to agreed schedules and behave professionally on set.
All participants must adhere to:
- Production health & safety guidelines.
- Confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements.
- Respectful workplace and anti-harassment policies.
Credits will be provided where participation is completed satisfactorily.
*Note: RAFI reserves the right to place participants based on project needs, availability and suitability.
TIMELINE
While timelines may vary depending on each production, a typical cycle follows this structure:
1. Registration of Interest
~Ongoing~
Applicants submit their details via the website, indicating their preferred department(s), availability, and location.
2. Virtual Interviews
~Rolling / By cohort~
Selected applicants are invited to a short virtual interview (15–20 minutes).
This is an opportunity to:
- Learn more about the initiative
- Discuss interests, goals, and availability
- Assess suitability for on-set placement
*Note: Not all applicants may be invited to interview
3. Shortlisting & Matching
~4–6 weeks before production~
Applicants are shortlisted and matched to departments based on:
- Interview outcomes
- Stated interests and skills
- Production needs and schedule
4. Orientation & Onboarding
~2–3 weeks before production~
Participants will have in-person briefs with their respective Heads of Department to kick off pre-production. In this phase, they also receive:
- Programme guidelines
- Department-specific expectations
- Health & safety and code-of-conduct briefings
5. Production
Participants shadow experienced professionals within their assigned departments, gaining hands-on, real-time production experience.
6. Post-production / Completion & Credits
While post-production kicks off, participants receive confirmation of participation, applicable screen credits, and where appropriate, references or recommendations will be given.
*Note: This timeline is subject to change based on the production's need. Participants who are assigned to shadow in post-production may not fall within this timeline.