Submissions for the ‘Discovery Channel Don’t Stop Wondering Award’ opened on Monday, 19 February and closes on Monday, 28 May, calling for two to five-minute documentaries from filmmakers across Africa.
"Last year’s entries blew us away, with their creative, emotive, and thought-provoking portrayals of the diversity of Africa’s culture and people," says Amanda Turnbull, VP and country manager for Discovery Networks Middle East and Africa.
Turnbull adds, "This year, alongside the Jozi Film Festival, we are excited to, once again, recognise and reward Africa’s talented filmmakers and showcase even more creative stories that fulfil Discovery Channel’s ethos of sparking curiosity."
"Partnering with Discovery Channel was a wonderful success. Thanks to this award, we were able to showcase some amazing African talent. This year, we look forward to the entries we will be receiving," says Lisa Henry, Jozi Film Festival founder and organiser.
This year’s prize from Discovery Channel will include a Canon XF-405 video camera with singer photographic camera accessories worth over $5 800 in order for the winner to use for their next filming project.
"We are so pleased to be able to contribute to such an incredible initiative and provide aspiring filmmakers with our equipment, which is specifically designed to help them create more of their memorable stories," adds Roger Machin, canon product manager – professional imaging products.
"We believe that, given the correct tools and production equipment, these innovative and determined individuals will be able to create even more amazing work and ensure that the continent gets to see high-quality storytelling," says Kevin Singer, photographic managing director.
The Top 10 films, as selected by a Discovery and Jozi Film Festival jury, will be broadcast on Discovery Channel in July and August and, later, at the seventh annual Jozi Film Festival in September.
The winning film will be selected by popular vote via the voting tool on Discovery’s website, and the winner will be flown to Johannesburg to receive their prize at the Jozi Film Festival awards to be held on Sunday, 30 September.
Entrants must be 18 or older and be an African resident. Submitted films must be in English or include English subtitles. Individuals can enter by going to www.discoveryafrica.com. Terms and conditions apply. The closing date is Monday, 28 May at 19:00 CAT.
For more information, visit www.discoveryafrica.com.