HACK FILM
FESTIVALS LIKE A
PRO!

CREATIVE LABS by iamnativ

Join Us for Hacking Film Festivals: A Creative Lab with Top Festival Experts 🎬🌍

We’re hosting 2 exciting Creative Labs focused on Hacking Film Festivals, featuring FIBBY KIORIA who has been on the selection committee for the A film festival LORCANO FILM FESTIVAL 2025 and moderated by CAROLINE KAMYA of IAMNATIV.

It’s a fantastic opportunity for you to learn how to navigate film festivals. FIBBY also co-founded AfricanFilmFestivals.com so you will find out more about it.

The second HACK FILM FESTIVALS LIKE A PRO2 is a ticketed event.

FEDERICO OLIVIERI - PROGRAM MANAGER - FCAT, SPAIN

CAROLINE KAMYA - FOUNDER - I AM NATIV

TINY MUNGWE - FOUNDER -CRTALTSHFT

FIBBY KIORIA - FOUNDER - MUCII PICTURES

"How to Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro" (For African Filmmakers)

Introduction to the Importance of Film Festivals Film festivals play a crucial role for African filmmakers, providing exposure, networking, and global recognition, especially in a landscape where African cinema often struggles with distribution. They are a powerful platform to challenge stereotypes and highlight the rich diversity of African stories.

1. Planning Your Festival Premiere

Research: Understand which festivals align with your film’s genre and themes (e.g., FESPACO, Durban, Zanzibar) and decide whether a world, continental, or national premiere best suits your goals.

Press Kit: Prepare a strong, professional press kit with a film synopsis, director’s statement, high-res stills, trailer, and your festival strategy.

2. What to Prepare Before You Go

Networking Materials: Pack business cards, digital screeners, and concise one-page project pitches.

Elevator Pitch: Have a clear, compelling pitch ready for your film and future projects.

Targeted Networking: Create a list of key festival programmers, distributors, sales agents, co-producers, and potential funders you want to meet. Schedule meetings in advance when possible.

3. Navigating the Festival Market

Market Events: Identify key events like pitching forums and co-production meetings. Be prepared with a concise funding proposal and understand your project’s unique selling points.

Industry Panels: Attend workshops and panels to stay informed on market trends and opportunities.

4. Maximizing Networking Opportunities

Engage in Q&As, filmmaker breakfasts, and informal meetups.

Use social media to connect with festival attendees, share your journey, and increase visibility by tagging festivals and using event hashtags.

Follow up promptly with new contacts to solidify relationships.

5. Balancing Networking and Film Viewing

Prioritize screenings of films that align with your interests and potential collaborators.

Use downtime wisely to attend additional screenings for inspiration and insight into industry trends.

Don’t forget to care for yourself—festivals can be overwhelming.

6. Key People to Meet at the Festival

Festival Programmers: Build relationships for current and future submissions.

Distributors and Sales Agents: Discuss potential sales and distribution deals.

Funders and Co-producers: Meet representatives from grant bodies and co-production markets for future projects.

Fellow Filmmakers: Connect with peers for potential collaborations and mutual support.

7. Post-Festival Strategy

Follow up with all contacts, sending thank-you notes and any requested materials.

Evaluate which connections and opportunities you want to pursue further.

Share your experience on social media and with your local industry to raise your profile.

Conclusion Film festivals are not just screening events—they are career launchpads for filmmakers. Use them strategically to build relationships, increase your visibility, and propel your future projects. This session is a tease—a brief, informative introduction to hacking the festival circuit. The second session will dive deeper with an in-depth panel, where we’ll explore strategies and insights in more detail and panel from FCAT African Film Feraitcal in Spain and anexpert in how to navigate THE DURBAN INTERNAIONAL FILM FESTIVAL so youy can be ready for this year! This session will set the stage for future opportunities and this masterclass is a unique chance to align with top industry leaders, get valuable insights, and create lasting connections for future collaborations. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to introduce your marketplace to African talent and set yourself up for success in the global film festival scene. Stay tuned for more details, and we look forward to seeing you there!

🎬 HACKING FILM FESTIVALS: A Creative Lab for African Filmmakers Presented by IAMNATIV 🌍

Ready to get your film into the world’s top festivals? Learn how to navigate the global festival circuit with real insight from insiders who know what it takes. Join us for a 2-part Creative Lab series designed to help African filmmakers Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro — featuring leading industry experts and real-world strategies.

Join us for a 2-part Creative Lab series designed to help African filmmakers Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro — featuring leading industry experts and real-world strategies.

SESSION 1: Free Intro Webinar

Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro 1

When: 22 MAY – 5PM EAST AFRICA TIME

Where: Online | Cost: Free for all creatives on IAMNATIV

Hosted by Caroline Kamya (IAMNATIV Founder) and featuring Fibby Kioria — Locarno Film Festival 2025 selection committee member and co-founder of AfricanFilmFestivals.com.

What you’ll learn:

Why festivals are essential for African filmmakers
How to choose the right festivals and premiere strategy
How to craft a powerful press kit and elevator pitch
Who to meet and how to network smart at festivals
How to turn screenings into career opportunities

This session is your teaser — a powerful, free introduction for filmmakers at any stage who want to break into the global scene.

SESSION 2: Free Intro Webinar

Ticketed Masterclass & Expert Panel

Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro 2

When: MAY 22ND 2025 AT 5PM EAST AFRICA TIME

Where: Online | Cost: Ticketed (Details Coming Soon)

What you’ll learn:

A programmer from FCAT (Festival de Cine Africano – Spain) A festival strategist for Durban International Film Festival
Moderated by Caroline Kamya (IAMNATIV)

Get real submission strategies that work
Learn how to stand out in selection committees
Understand what funders, programmers, and distributors are really looking for
Ask questions directly to seasoned insiders

Why Attend?

Join Us for Hacking Film Festivals

This 2-part lab is designed to give African filmmakers real tools, real insights, and real access. Whether you’re making your festival debut or want to level up your strategy, this is your chance to build connections, learn from pros, and prep

Session 1 = FREE Session 2 = TICKETED (Deeper, focused, and limited slots) Spots are limited! Be the first to know when tickets drop and register now for the free session. Powered by IAMNATIV.com – Where African Talent Meets the World.

FACILITATORS AND MODERATOR

Creative Lab: Hacking Film Festivals Like a Pro1 and 2

This session is part of a 2-part series aimed at empowering African filmmakers with the tools, strategies, and insider knowledge needed to successfully navigate the global film festival circuit.

Session 1 (Intro Webinar – Free this month - Fibby and I):

A high-level, informative introduction for filmmakers across Africa. We’ll explore the value of film festivals as platforms for exposure, funding, distribution, and global collaboration. This session will include tips on:

Choosing the right festivals for your film’s genre and goals
Understanding premiere status and submission strategies
Preparing a compelling press kit and elevator pitch
Maximizing networking opportunities before, during, and after festivals

Session 2 (Ticketed Masterclass & 4 person Expert Panel):

A deeper, interactive session featuring festival programmers and strategists from Locarno, FCAT (Spain), and Durban International Film Festival. Please share your preferred titles, picture, and bios for the publicity. The panel will offer hands-on insights, real-world examples, and advice tailored to African filmmakers seeking to break into the global festival space. DIFF 2025 and FCAT2026.

Session 1 = FREE
Session 2 = TICKETED
Spots are limited!
Be the first to invest in your career.

BUY $0 (members only)

BUY $10

BUY $15

BUY $30

BUY $50

GRAB YOUR TICKETS FOR
"HACK FILM FESTIVALS LIKE A PRO 2! - MAY 22ND 2025
5PM EAST AFRICA TIME ON ZOOM

Other Nativ Creative Labs

EDIT LIKE A PRO! 2.0

Happening on: 2025-04-24
Time: 5PM East Africa Time

Alexander Ludwick, an experienced video editor and filmmaker with over seven years in the industry, will lead Edit Like a Pro—2…

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EDIT LIKE A PRO! by Alexander Ludwick

Happening on: 2025-02-27
Time: 5PM East Africa Time

Alexander Ludwick, a seasoned video editor and filmmaker with over seven years of experience, will facilitate Edit Like a Pro—an…

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How it Works for Nativ Creative – Webinar

Happening on: 2025-01-31
Time: 11:30AM – 12:30 PM GMT +3

We’re hosting an exclusive live webinar to give you a behind-the-scenes look at how IAMNATIV works and how you can: ✅ Benefit from…

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Pitching to Streaming platforms and selling your content

Happening on: 2024-04-18
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM GMT+3

FREE WEBINAR ON HOW TO MAKE $$$$ FROM YOUR CONTENT ON STREAMING PLATFORMS; Led by Yasmina Tamer the General Manager…

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NATIV SHORTS 2024 intro and Stock image session led by Derrick Larane of pocstock, U.S.A

Happening on: 2024-03-20
Time: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM GMT+3

This webinar takes you through how to sell Stock images.

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It will never work in Africa – Webinar

Happening on: 2023-10-27
Time: 11:00 AM GMT+1

Join us for a deep into the joys and challenges of making media content in Africa. Are you part of…

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Storytelling Masterclass

Happening on: 2023-04-18
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM (UK Time)

At iamnativ, we’re looking forward to holding a storytelling Masterclass with our shortlisted filmmakers. It’ll be led by Jane Mote…

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Tiered ticket system for Session 2: "Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro 2", designed to:

Appeal to different budgets and levels of engagement

Reflect real value based on your session content and audience of African filmmakers Aim for $100 - $500 per Speaker

→ Offers accessible + high-value options for your audience

✨ Bonus Ideas to Add Value:

Pro Insider Bonus: Include a “pitch deck” template for festivals.

Mentor Circle: Offer a downloadable “Your Festival Timeline Workbook.”

Announce “only 10 slots available” for Mentor Circle to add urgency.

Offer Early Bird for only the first 5 days of ticket launch.

Total Potential Revenue:

$4,450

→ Covers your $2,200 in costs → Leaves $2,250 profit

HACK FILM FESTIVALS LIKE A PRO!

CREATIVE LABS by iamnativ

Join Us for Hacking Film Festivals: A Creative Lab with Top Festival Experts 🎬🌍

The second HACK FILM FESTIVALS LIKE A PRO2 is a ticketed event.

FEDERICO OLIVIERI - PROGRAM MANAGER - FCAT, SPAIN

CAROLINE KAMYA - FOUNDER - I AM NATIV

TINY MUNGWE - FOUNDER -CRTALTSHFT

FIBBY KIORIA - FOUNDER - MUCII PICTURES

"How to Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro" (For African Filmmakers)

1. Planning Your Festival Premiere

Research: Understand which festivals align with your film’s genre and themes (e.g., FESPACO, Durban, Zanzibar) and decide whether a world, continental, or national premiere best suits your goals.

Press Kit: Prepare a strong, professional press kit with a film synopsis, director’s statement, high-res stills, trailer, and your festival strategy.

2. What to Prepare Before You Go

Networking Materials: Pack business cards, digital screeners, and concise one-page project pitches.

Elevator Pitch: Have a clear, compelling pitch ready for your film and future projects.

Targeted Networking: Create a list of key festival programmers, distributors, sales agents, co-producers, and potential funders you want to meet. Schedule meetings in advance when possible.

3. Navigating the Festival Market

Market Events: Identify key events like pitching forums and co-production meetings. Be prepared with a concise funding proposal and understand your project’s unique selling points.

Industry Panels: Attend workshops and panels to stay informed on market trends and opportunities.

4. Maximizing Networking Opportunities

Engage in Q&As, filmmaker breakfasts, and informal meetups.

Use social media to connect with festival attendees, share your journey, and increase visibility by tagging festivals and using event hashtags.

Follow up promptly with new contacts to solidify relationships.

5. Balancing Networking and Film Viewing

Prioritize screenings of films that align with your interests and potential collaborators.

Use downtime wisely to attend additional screenings for inspiration and insight into industry trends.

Don’t forget to care for yourself—festivals can be overwhelming.

6. Key People to Meet at the Festival

Festival Programmers: Build relationships for current and future submissions.

Distributors and Sales Agents: Discuss potential sales and distribution deals.

Funders and Co-producers: Meet representatives from grant bodies and co-production markets for future projects.

Fellow Filmmakers: Connect with peers for potential collaborations and mutual support.

7. Post-Festival Strategy

Follow up with all contacts, sending thank-you notes and any requested materials.

Evaluate which connections and opportunities you want to pursue further.

Share your experience on social media and with your local industry to raise your profile.

🎬 HACKING FILM FESTIVALS: A Creative Lab for African Filmmakers Presented by IAMNATIV 🌍

SESSION 1: Free Intro Webinar

Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro 1

What you’ll learn:

SESSION 2: Free Intro Webinar

Ticketed Masterclass & Expert Panel

Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro 2

What you’ll learn:

Why Attend?

Join Us for Hacking Film Festivals

FACILITATORS AND MODERATOR

Creative Lab: Hacking Film Festivals Like a Pro1 and 2

Session 1 (Intro Webinar – Free this month - Fibby and I):

Session 2 (Ticketed Masterclass & 4 person Expert Panel):

BUY $0 (members only)

BUY $10

BUY $15

BUY $30

BUY $50

GRAB YOUR TICKETS FOR "HACK FILM FESTIVALS LIKE A PRO 2! - MAY 22ND 20255PM EAST AFRICA TIME ON ZOOM

Other Nativ Creative Labs

EDIT LIKE A PRO! 2.0

EDIT LIKE A PRO! by Alexander Ludwick

How it Works for Nativ Creative – Webinar

Pitching to Streaming platforms and selling your content

NATIV SHORTS 2024 intro and Stock image session led by Derrick Larane of pocstock, U.S.A

It will never work in Africa – Webinar

Storytelling Masterclass

Tiered ticket system for Session 2: "Hack Film Festivals Like a Pro 2", designed to:

Appeal to different budgets and levels of engagement

Reflect real value based on your session content and audience of African filmmakers Aim for $100 - $500 per Speaker

✨ Bonus Ideas to Add Value:

Pro Insider Bonus: Include a “pitch deck” template for festivals.

Mentor Circle: Offer a downloadable “Your Festival Timeline Workbook.”

Announce “only 10 slots available” for Mentor Circle to add urgency.

Offer Early Bird for only the first 5 days of ticket launch.

Total Potential Revenue:

$4,450

Make $500 per facilitator (x4) profit

Cover $2,200 in costs (facilitators + IG/LinkedIn ads)

HACK FILM
FESTIVALS LIKE A
PRO!

GRAB YOUR TICKETS FOR
"HACK FILM FESTIVALS LIKE A PRO 2! - MAY 22ND 2025
5PM EAST AFRICA TIME ON ZOOM