Filming, directing, writing and acting were among the skills taught to 22 students at a five-day pilot programme designed to provide an introduction to film and digital media.
The inaugural Future Filmmakers Academy, which ran from Monday to Friday last week, was hosted by the BVI Film Commission.
“We were thrilled with the enthusiastic response to the pilot programme,” said Film Commissioner Natalie Hodge. “Our young people are creative, curious and incredibly talented.”
She added that response to the programme had been overwhelming, with registration closing only two days after it was launched due to high demand.
“Filmmakers Academy is just the beginning,” Ms. Hodge said. “With help and support of our partners, we are committed to providing even more opportunities to help them grow, thrive and shape the future of the Virgin Islands’ film industry.”
Sessions
During the programme, students took part in hands-on learning and group work as they rotated between Seagrape Studios in Fish Bay and H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.
Dame Peters led interactive sessions on filmmaking fundamentals such as camera parts, film crew roles, lighting and microphones.
Naudia Turnbull taught animation basics, explaining concepts like flipbooks and stop motion using Pixteller software.
Nekita Turnbull facilitated sessions on safe and smart social media use.
Showcase
The programme concluded at HLSCC with a student showcase attended by parents, sponsors and representatives from the BVI Tourist Board and Film Commission and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development.
The showcase included a question-and-answer session on filmmaking concepts, sound demonstrations using everyday objects, and short film presentations.
Certificates of completion were awarded to all students, some of whom also received prizes for their work.
“With continued sponsorship, we are hopeful to host another module later this year, expanding on what we’ve started and offering even more advanced training and exposure to the world of film,” Ms. Hodge said.
For more information, contact the commission at 852-6020 or info@bvifilm.com.
