Film Symposium

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About This Project

The Women in Film Film Symposium is an annual flagship event organised by the Women in Film Organisation Uganda, a leading body dedicated to empowering and advancing the participation of women in Uganda’s film industry. The symposium serves as a dynamic platform that brings together female filmmakers, producers, directors, actors, writers, and industry stakeholders for meaningful dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaborative strategy building.

The symposium gathers both emerging and established professionals from across the creative sector to explore the challenges and opportunities facing women in cinema. Through panel discussions, keynote presentations, and interactive conversations, participants examine critical issues such as gender equity, representation, career development, business and technical skills, and the future of film production in Uganda and beyond.

The event has become an important occasion for stakeholders to reaffirm commitments to gender equality in film and celebrate the contributions of women creatives shaping Uganda’s cinematic landscape.

Objectives

  • To empower women in the Ugandan film industry by providing a platform for knowledge sharing, mentorship, and skills development across all areas of filmmaking.

  • To foster collaboration and networking among female filmmakers, creatives, and key industry stakeholders, creating opportunities for partnerships, funding, and career growth.

  • To promote gender equity and representation in film by engaging in dialogue on policy, access to resources, and sustainable strategies that support women-led storytelling and leadership in cinema.

Target Beneficiaries

  • Women filmmakers: including directors, producers, writers, cinematographers, editors, and actors.

  • Emerging and aspiring women creatives: seeking knowledge, mentorship, and entry into the film industry.

  • Film students and recent graduates: pursuing careers in film and related creative fields.

  • Industry stakeholders, such as broadcasters, distributors, funders, policymakers, and cultural institutions.

  • Women-led film organisations and collectives: advocating for gender equity in the creative sector.

Activities

  • Keynote Addresses
    Thought leadership sessions delivered by experienced women and industry leaders.

  • Panel Discussions
    Conversations on gender representation, storytelling, financing, distribution, and career sustainability in film.

  • Workshops & Masterclasses
    Practical skill-building sessions in areas such as screenwriting, directing, producing, acting, and film marketing.

  • Networking & Collaboration Sessions
    Structured engagements to foster partnerships, mentorships, and professional relationships.

  • Film Screenings & Showcases
    Presentation of films and projects by women filmmakers to inspire dialogue and learning.

  • Mentorship & Career Clinics
    One-on-one or group mentorship sessions addressing career growth, funding access, and industry navigation.

  • Exhibitions & Resource Booths
    Showcasing opportunities, tools, and services from industry partners and sponsors.

Impact Summary

The Women in Film Symposium contributes to the growth of Uganda’s film industry by empowering women with knowledge, skills, and networks essential for career advancement. The symposium strengthens professional capacity, enhances visibility of women’s stories, and promotes collaboration across the creative sector. Ultimately, it supports a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable film ecosystem by amplifying women’s voices and leadership in film.