Expedition Filmmaking Workshop 2025

AFRISOS, in partnership with The Wilderness Project, brings an exciting opportunity for young African filmmakers to explore the wild, uncover hidden stories, and develop their skills in wildlife and nature storytelling.

This immersive program is designed for passionate filmmakers that want to make their mark on the African film scene while connecting deeply with the land and communities living alongside some of Africa's most iconic rivers.

This Expedition Filmmaking Workshop is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn, grow, and create as a storyteller. 

We are selecting 15 filmmakers (5 per cohort) to join us on an expedition-style workshop across three iconic locations in Africa. The program will cover a broad range of filmmaking skills, from story development to production and post-production, all in the heart of Africa’s most spectacular and culturally rich environments.

What You Will Learn

Participants will be fully immersed in the world of wildlife filmmaking, learning key skills including:

  • Storytelling: Developing compelling narratives about Africa’s rivers, nature, and the people who live alongside them.

  • Filmmaking Techniques: From shooting and directing to sound recording and camera operation.

  • Interviewing and Cultural Sensitivity: Master the art of conducting interviews with local communities while respecting cultural contexts.

  • Expedition Filmmaking: Experience the challenges and excitement of filming in the wild, from equipment maintenance to navigating the harsh conditions of remote environments.

Locations and Dates

Kavango, Namibia

Feb 24th to March 5th, 2025

Bangweulu Swamps, Zambia

April 2025

(Exact dates to be communicated)

Rugezi Marsh, Rwanda

May 2025

(Exact dates to be communicated)

What is Included?

  • All expenses paid: Your travel, accommodation, meals, and equipment are fully covered.

  • Paid Opportunity: Participants will receive a stipend to support their participation.

  • Mentorship & Training: Work alongside world-class filmmakers and wildlife experts. Learn everything from story structure to equipment maintenance, interviewing techniques, and post-production editing.

  • Real-World Experience: Not just a workshop, but a full expedition experience where you will be trained in authentic, hands-on filmmaking.

  • Potential for Future Work: Outstanding participants will be considered for future GSOA expeditions, offering a paid opportunity to work on ongoing wildlife conservation documentaries.

Eligibility & Application Process

  • Age: You must be 18 years or older to apply.

  • Experience: This is not a program for beginners. We are seeking filmmakers who already know how to use a camera and have basic experience with filmmaking.

  • Nationality: You must be a citizen of an African country. While the program is open to filmmakers from across the continent, priority will be given to applicants from the following countries: South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Ethiopia.

  • Passion & Curiosity: We are looking for filmmakers who are passionate about the intersection of nature and cultural heritage. Your work should demonstrate a genuine interest in telling authentic, meaningful stories that connect communities with their environment.

Important Details:

  • Only 15 filmmakers will be selected (5 per cohort).

  • Applicants will be notified in advance about their assigned cohort.

Ready to Apply?

Applications open: December 20th - January 20th, 2025

We are accepting a single round of applications for all three cohorts. To apply, simply fill out the application form below and submit your work samples.

We look forward to receiving your application and seeing the world through your lens!