This year marks the twelfth addition of the FilmUp mentorship programme, Script to Screen would like to thank the NZFC who have continued to support this kaupapa to continue strengthening and developing Aotearoa’s feature film writers, directors and producers.
Script to Screen is delighted to announce the 2026 participants who will join this growing community of advancing Feature Film practitioners.
The selected participants listed below will be matched with industry mentors to help develop their feature film project. During the six-month programme the group will also participate in a series of development hubs that include round tables, group workshops, and guest speakers sharing their experiences and perspectives, helping to strengthen industry connections.
An insight into the application process:
113 applications were received which proved a challenge for our selectors to make the final decision. 3 independent industry selectors with experience across writing, directing and producing assessed the applications. Successful applicants had both a very strong track record of creating innovative work with unique and authentic perspectives. They were also able to articulate clearly what their current project development requirements were, and how a mentorship will help in their progression.
From the large number of very strong applications, it is clear that mentorships like FilmUp are of a very high value to emerging and mid-career professionals.
We thank each and every applicant who submitted to be considered for FilmUp. We are sorry we can’t support more. We acknowledge how disappointing it is when applications are unsuccessful and encourage you to continue to apply for development kaupapa that aligns with the type of support you are looking for. From our perspective, we see every year how beneficial it is for filmmakers and their projects to continue to apply for all the development opportunities they can.
FilmUp is made possible thanks to funding from The New Zealand Film Commission
A beginner’s guide to mobile filmmaking is an action packed one-day workshop for Eastern Bay community youth ages 14-18. Learn about the fundamentals of filmmaking and work in teams to create short films on mobile phones.
You don’t have to have a phone to attend – this a free workshop where all equipment is provided. If you have an interest in telling stories, screenwriting, acting, filmmaking or if you want to investigate if filmmaking is right for you, this workshop will provide you with the first steps to making your own work.
At the conclusion of the workshops, we invite friends and whānau for a screening of the day’s work. This is an exciting moment for everyone involved to celebrate the possibilities of what can be created in a day.
The Workshop is presented by Script to Screen, Aotearoa’s leading screen training and professional development organisation. A not-for-profit charity, Script to Screen has been at the forefront of screen industry training since 2007. Since that time, we have run successful workshops in centres across the motu, including Hokianga, Kerikeri, Kaikohe, Whangārei, Auckland, South Auckland, Rotorua, Invercargill, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown.
We are excited to bring this kaupapa to Kawerau and support the aspiring storytellers in the region.
When and where:
Saturday 29th November 2025
9am – 5pm
4:30pm – Screening: Friends, whanāu and locals are welcome to view the films made
Concert Chamber, Ranfurly Court, Kawerau
The venue is wheelchair accessible
Cost: The workshop is free, please register via Humanitix as spaces are limited
What’s provided:
What to bring:
ABOUT PROGRAMME MENTOR
JAMIE IRVINE
Jamie Irvine has worked in film, television and theatre since 1998. After leaving New Zealand to study in 2003, Jamie spent several years in both Sydney and Los Angeles, where he worked as an actor and voice artist as well as teaching at NIDA, Actors Centre Australia, Theatre of Arts Hollywood and various other organisations.
Since returning to New Zealand in 2017, Jamie has performed in various productions including Tinā, The Brokenwood Mysteries, Black Hands, Sweet Tooth, Centrepoint, Power Rangers, Duckrockers, Mystic, N00b, Literally Dead, My Life is Murder, M3gan 2.0 and Shortland Street. On stage, he in the PopUp Globes productions of Richard III and Taming of the Shrew. He directed the NZ on Air Funded webseries Here if you Need. He has also taught acting at South Seas Film and Television School and worked as programme manager at Script to Screen.
Whether in front of or behind the camera, Jamie is passionate about storytelling and helping others reach their potential.
This workshop is made possible thanks to Script to Screen’s partnership with Film Bay of Plenty and the generous support from Kawerau Council Creative Communities Scheme.
Join Script to Screen for a one-day short film workshop in South Auckland. Thanks to the support of Foundation North, anyone – no matter their filmmaking experience, can learn to develop their short film ideas.
Feel empowered with the tools to make your story come to life. This workshop will cover the key fundamentals of creating short films including crafting story ideas, pitching to collaborators and what it takes to be able to go on to make a short film.
This workshop is led by award-winning actor, writer, director Nikki Si’ulepa, who tells bold, heartfelt stories that champion underrepresented voices and communities —stories with grit, soul, and the occasional cheeky wink. The mana of you and your story ideas will be safely held throughout the duration of the day.
The South Auckland Short Film Workshop provides a stepping stone to applying for the Script to Screen South Shorts Mentorship programme as well as other short film initiatives like Day One Shorts. It is also a fantastic opportunity to meet other creatives within the community and be inspired by filmmaking’s possibilities.
We welcome anyone who wants to tell their stories through film. If you’re a new or emerging filmmaker or a local South Auckland creative this workshop is for you.
When and where:
Saturday 1st November 2025
9am – 5pm
Friendship House, 20 Putney Way, Manukau, South Auckland
The venue is wheelchair accessible
Cost: $12.50 (INC BF & GST) Book via Humanitix
Morning tea and afternoon tea provided, BYO lunch
What to bring:
ABOUT PROGRAMME MENTOR
NIKKI SI’ULEPA
Nikki Si’ulepa (she/her) is an award-winning actor, writer, and director whose work spans film, television, and digital platforms. She’s lit up screens in Bookworm, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Tangata Pai, Creamerie, Housebound, Same But Different, and Pot Luck—and her films have screened (and won stuff!) at Berlinale, Tribeca, Sydney, Melbourne, FIFO, and NZIFF.
A proud Sāmoan, queer creative, Nikki tells bold, heartfelt stories that champion underrepresented voices and communities—stories with grit, soul, and the occasional cheeky wink. She is a co-founder of PISA – PACIFIC ISLANDS SCREEN ARTISTS – a global Pasifika screen collective. She also runs ACTING UP! FOR SCREEN and SCREENFIT—fast-paced, no-fluff workshops where actors, writers, and directors flex their creative muscles and get real-time feedback (with less sweat, more script).
Whether she’s behind the camera or holding space as a kaihautū for emerging storytellers, Nikki’s all about inclusive, collaborative, fun spaces—with purpose, passion, and a healthy amount of laughs along the way.
This workshop is made possible thanks to generous support from Foundation North and Auckland Council Creative Communities Scheme.
Te Tari Tuhi Kupu a Whakaahua Script to Screen invite applications for two different roles within our organisation.
Opportunities available to work with us include the Programme & Events Manager (Parental Leave Cover) and Programme Facilitator (Contract)
Script to Screen is Aotearoa’s leading organisation dedicated to developing screen culture and NZ’s storytelling talent. We deliver world-class development programmes, labs, and workshops that support emerging and established filmmakers to tell bold and authentic stories.
Programme & Events Manager
PARENTAL LEAVE COVER
October 2025 – December 2026
Fulltime
This role is based in Auckland
The PROGRAMME and EVENT MANAGER is a senior role within STS and BSS. The main focus of the role is the exceptional management of all our programmes and events.
Key responsibilities include co-designing programmes and events with the Script to Screen Executive Director, managing the logistics of all development programmes and events and applying for funding.
The Programme and Events Manager will take a lead across all the STS development programmes and events for STS and BSS.
For role requirements, please refer to the job description pdf below.
PDF Programme & Events Manager Job Description: https://script-to-screen.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Programme-Events-Manager-Parental-Leave_updated.pdf
Apply for Programme & Events Manager Role: https://form.jotform.com/Script_to_Screen_NZ/job-application-pro-events-manager
Deadline: End of Day – Monday 6th October 2025
As this is parental leave position, we are flexible with the start and end dates.
We are very keen to hear from anyone with the relevant skills and experience for this role. Although there is a deadline (Monday 6th October), we will undertake meetings and interviews as and when people get in touch, so the role may be filled prior to the closing date. We therefore encourage early contact.
Please email info@script-to-screen.co.nz to have an initial conversation or use this link to submit an application.
Programme Facilitator
This role may be based outside of Auckland. EOI is open nation wide.
The STS Programme Facilitators are FIXED TERM CONTRACTOR ROLES responsible for hosting and facilitating STS development programmes, workshops and hubs. They will work closely with the STS Executive Director and Programme and Events Manager to ensure all programmes are delivered to the highest standards, meeting the needs of the participants, leaders, STS and our funders.
STS is seeking Expressions of Interest from Screen industry professionals who are interested in contract work.
For role requirements, please refer to the job description pdf below.
PDF Programme Facilitator Job Description: https://script-to-screen.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/STS-Programme-Facilitator-Role.pdf
Submit your EOI: https://form.jotform.com/Script_to_Screen_NZ/EOI-programme-facilitator
Deadline: End of Day – Monday 20th October 2025
About Te Tari Tuhi Kupu a Whakaahua Script to Screen
As the leading screen sector talent development and training organisation in Aotearoa for nearly 20 years, Te Tari Tuhi Kupu a Whakaahua Script to Screen (STS) is dedicated to supporting Aotearoa’s screen storytellers and growing a diverse, inclusive screen industry that reflects our communities.
Our commitment to Te tiriti o Waitangi and Tangata Whenua underpins our kaupapa and organisational mahi. We are guided by teachings and learning within te Ao Māori, incorporating a tikanga Māori lens across our work, while being led by the principles of Manakitanga, Kotahitanga, Tika and Pono.
STS is a not-for-profit charity whose core business is the professional development of screen storytellers (writers, directors, producers). We provide bespoke talent development programmes, mentorships, and professional training programmes that help develop skills and champion voices from across the country.
STS also runs Big Screen Symposium (BSS). Our largest event, this two-day immersive event is focused on bringing the NZ screen industry together to connect, learn and be inspired. A mix of panel discussions, masterclasses, workshops, keynote speeches and industry meetings, this high-level industry conference attracts 400-500 people each year and is funded by all of the key major industry funders and organisations.
Photography by Evie Mackay
SCRIPT TO SCREEN presents
Script Development Workshops for DDN Creatives
Te Tari Tuhi Kupu a Whakaahua Script to Screen, is proud to be piloting a new community programme of Script Development Workshops.
In partnership with the Screenrights Cultural Fund, this bespoke programme of workshops will upskill Deaf, Disabled and Neuro Diverse (DDN) creatives in Aotearoa, NZ, to create innovative and compelling screen stories for TV, Film and online platforms.
This programme places creatives unique perspectives at the heart of their story development, helping them to create and develop authentic work that resonates with audiences.
These workshops have been designed to support this underserved and underrepresented group of creative talent, helping to uplift them and their stories, and creating pathways for progression in the screen sector in Aotearoa, NZ.
Script to Screen looks forward to working with the community on the final planning and design of the programme before inviting applications from participants.
A huge mihi (thanks) to the Screenrights Cultural Fund for supporting this important work, we can’t wait to get started.
Register your interest for the DDN Workshops here: https://form.jotform.com/Script_to_Screen_NZ/register-your-interest-DDN-workshop
Script Development Workshops for DDN Creatives
Activity: A programme designed to upskill Deaf, Disabled, and Neuro Diverse (DDN) creatives in innovative screen storytelling. Co-created with DDN artists and organisations, the programme supports participants in utilising their unique perspectives in story development, aiming to break down barriers for their progression in the New Zealand screen sector. The programme will feature script development workshops for emerging DDN creatives held in various centres across NZ.
These workshops will cover fundamentals of screen storytelling, including character development, conflict creation, scripting, dialogue writing, and genre exploration, and are open to those developing short films, TV, digital series, and feature films (excluding documentaries).
A key objective is to reduce barriers to progression, with a final online pitch session, for those participants who want to, with invited New Zealand screen industry decision-makers. As Script to Screen alumni, participants also receive ongoing support through the STS awhi programme as well support to attend STS events likes Big Screen Symposium.
Location: Various centres (tbc) across New Zealand.
Check out the other initiatives supported by Screenrights here: https://www.screenrights.org/screenrights-announces-300k-funding-for-six-initiatives-supported-by-2025-cultural-fund/
Script Development Workshops for Deaf, Disabled and Neuro Diverse creatives is made possible through our partnership with the Screenrights Cultural Fund.
KEY DATES:
Applications open: Now, Monday 11th August 2025
Applications close: 1 PM, Monday 22nd September 2025
The residential development lab will take place from: Monday 16th – Friday 20th March 2026.
Travel costs for participants who live outside Auckland will be covered as part of the programme.
Shortlist Notified: End of October
Announcement: Early December
Team Zoom Meetings: 1-5 December
ABOUT STORY CAMP:
Story Camp Aotearoa is an intensive residential feature film development lab that fosters craft, voice and vision. Selected screenwriters and creative teams deepen their understanding of the needs of their script and project through one-to-one bespoke sessions with exceptional international and local advisors. A rigorous five-day lab it is designed to specifically meet the development needs of their feature film project.
This development camp, which has tikanga and Māoritanga embed in its kaupapa, enables screenwriters and their teams to shut out the noise from their usual working environment and life, embarking on a five-day journey of deep story development. The unique location of the camp both informs and protects the wairua of our participants and their stories.
The tailored developmental approach of Story Camp Aotearoa also includes project-based group workshops; workshopping with actors; industry panel discussions and guest advisors from other artforms.
Each film and team are matched with advisors who are chosen specifically for the needs of the project, and where it is at in its developmental journey.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:
Stage of Development
Although we recognise the development process for feature films is as individual as the stories they are telling, Story Camp is designed to deep dive into the development process. Therefore, scripts or projects that are early in their journey may not benefit as much as others from this process. So, although we are not prescriptive about what draft your project should be at, we highlight that it is unlikely a first or early draft script or project would be selected.
We are keen to hear from writers, writer/directors, and filmmaking teams who have a feature film in development that they are ready to go deeper into their development process. These could be in the story development phase, the structural re-drafting phase or even at an advanced stage and getting close to production ready. We are happy to discuss the stage you are at and whether this is an appropriate route for you and your project prior to applying.
Please contact info@script-to-screen.co.nz to arrange a time to have a kōrero.
Your voice
Story Camp Aotearoa is all about supporting unique screen stories from Aotearoa. We are open to all genres. We are passionate about supporting stories that reflect who we are and the rich diversity of our communities and country. We encourage applications with scripts in Te Reo Māori, and those from our Pacific Island, Asian and other culturally diverse communities. We also encourage applications from other underrepresented communities like, but not limited to, those who identify as LGBTQi, *gender diverse, *disabled or neurodivergent.
If you have any access support needs to help you apply, please get in touch as soon as possible so we can help. info@script-to-screen.co.nz
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Eligibility:
(Please contact Script to Screen if you are developing a co-pro prior to applying)
Provide the following via this form:
https://form.jotform.com/Script_to_Screen_NZ/story-camp-aotearoa-2026-apply
Upload
Please ensure ALL uploaded attachments are page-numbered and include a header with the applicant’s name and the project title.
Please provide one submission PDF document (no more than 10 pages) with the following:
If you are applying with a feature documentary, please also provide (if you have it) a link to some footage from/about the documentary you are applying with.
Application Fee
We have a nominal application fee of $30. If this is a barrier to you applying, please get in touch with us.
Please make your payment by midnight on Monday 22nd September 2025.
Account Name: Script to Screen Te Tari Kupu A Whakaahua
Account Number: 03 0255 0178775 00
Reference: StoryCamp – Applicant Name
Amount: $30
APPLY HERE:
Please apply via our online form: https://form.jotform.com/Script_to_Screen_NZ/story-camp-aotearoa-2026-apply
*Gender diverse is the umbrella term for the variation of gender identities in the gender spectrum (i.e. it encompasses gender identities such as transgender, agender and non-binary).
*A disability is defined as a long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairment which in interaction with various barriers may hinder full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
This definition comes from Article 1 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
📸 Photograph captured by Evie Mackay
Script to Screen is a not-for-profit charity based in Tāmaki Makarau, and we wouldn’t be here without the support from the Auckland Council Albert Eden Accommodation Grant.
We want to take the time to acknowledge the extreme value that this grant provides to a small organisation like us, and share with you some of the things we get to do because of it!
Although following COVID Script to Screen took a flexible approach to our working arrangements, and our staff still have the option when needed to work remotely, the majority of the time we are together working as a team onsite at our offices in Morningside. We really value the collaboration, ideas and opportunities that arise from working together to provide talent development for the screen industry in Aotearoa. This physical space allows us to expand the possibilities for filmmakers throughout New Zealand, both in person and online.
At our office we also have a bookable board room that has the potential to be used for more than just Script to Screen meetings, we’re open to alumni to use the space after hours for readthroughs, project meetings or writers rooms.
We run all of our operations out of this space, so we’re a physical hub of information where you are more than welcome to come and visit us if you prefer to have a kōrero in person.
We have a legacy of alumni spanning 300+, with more if we include workshop and TALK attendees, so on behalf of everyone who has been impacted by the work that we do, we would like to mihi to Auckland Council Albert-Eden Local Board for enabling us to have this lasting legacy within the screen industry in Aotearoa.
Thank you to the Auckland Council Albert-Eden Local Board – Accommodation Grant.
Pictured: Audience attendees clapping during a presentation at the Big Screen Symposium 2024 run by Script to Screen.
On behalf of everyone here at Script to Screen, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season!
We know from experience that taking time off can be hard for creatives but we want to encourage you all to rest, relax, recharge and spend time with whānau and friends so you’re ready for all that 2025 has in store.
The Script to Screen office will be closed from Friday, 20th December 2024, staff will be back from the week of the 6th and the office will re-open on Monday, 13th January 2025.
We want to thank everyone, who attended a workshop or talk, applied for a programme or sent an email enquiry, we also want to thank all of the contractors, programme participants and our amazing funders who have allowed us to continue to share our mahi with you all.
Stay safe, stay well and we’ll see you next year!
Thank you to our Script to Screen Funders: Te Tumu Whakaata Taonga New Zealand Film Commission, Foundation North, Images and Sound, Albert-Eden Local Board, and Creative Communities NZ.
Image 1: Story Camp 2024
Image 2: Southern Pilots
Image 3: Kōpere Hou Fresh Shorts 2024
Image 4: South Shorts 2024
Image 5: Far North Youth Filmmaking Workshop
Image 6: Far North Adult Scriptwriting Workshop
Image 7: South Auckland Screenwriting Workshop
Image 8: An Introduction to Narrative Design with Alexander Swords – Workshop
After 10 years of support from Foundation North, we are proud to open applications for the 2025 South Shorts Script Mentorship programme. This programme will continue to support new and emerging screenwriters from the South Auckland community* to enhance their screenwriting capabilities. Take the leap and submit your story ideas to be a part of this unique development opportunity. South Shorts will help you develop your story idea/s (short film or web series), write a script, share your unique perspective, and advance your screenwriting career within a supportive framework.
During this six-month mentorship programme (Dates to be confirmed; likely May-September 2025), you will attend a series of Saturday hubs alongside like-minded creatives, be led through focused script development and receive one-on-one feedback under the guidance of writer, and director Briar Grace-Smith (Cousins, Waru). Briar has mentored the past 7 years of South Shorts, and she brings considerable experience and knowledge from her own projects.
The hub days are shaped based on the groups needs and involve script read-throughs, writing exercises, and hearing from guest speakers about their experiences making films. We also look forward this year to adding sessions around pitching ideas, funding, working with actors and further development tasks to the programme as required.
On completion you will leave South Shorts with new skills and tools to develop your work, a great new network of like-minded practitioners, a completed script, and greater confidence in yourself as a screenwriter.
We welcome applications from past participants of the South Shorts programme, who wish to develop a new script idea and are still recognised as new and emerging screenwriters.
This year we will also be accepting video applications to help expand the accessibility of our application process.
Opens: Monday 16th December 2024
Information Webinar: 5 pm – 6 pm Tuesday 11th February 2025
Closes: 1 pm, Monday 3rd March 2025
“The confidence that participating in South Shorts has instilled in me as an emerging filmmaker cannot be understated. Briar and Script to Screen create such a safe space for us to grow as writers at our own pace and to tell stories that otherwise wouldn’t get told in Aotearoa. Whatever is next on my filmmaking journey, I can thank South Shorts for helping to build me as a writer and filmmaker.”
– Claire Patolo, South Shorts 2024 Participant
About you: (Either a written application or video submission outlining the below.)
About your project:
Optional material:
Who is eligible?
Briar Grace-Smith is of Ngā Puhi descent and a writer of short fiction, stage plays and feature films. Her plays include Ngā Pou Wāhine, Purapurawhetū and When Sun and Moon Collide. She is an Arts Foundation Laureate and was recently made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to film, television and theatre. She has worked as a Development Executive for the New Zealand Film Commission and taught ‘Writing for Theatre’ at IIML (2015). Briar is a Sundance alumni and the writer of the feature films The Strength of Water and Fresh Meat. Her television credits include Fishskin Suit, Being Eve, Kaitangata Twitch and the Australian children’s television series, Grace Beside Me (2017). She was a director and co-writer of the short film, Nine of Hearts, and wrote and directed Charm for the feature project Waru (2017). She collaborated with Toi Whakaari, directing Krystal, a short film by Josephine Stewart-Te Whiu. She was the screenwriter and co-director of the feature film Cousins, and is a writer and co-director of Rūrangi, Series 2. Briar was made a member of the Directors branch of the Academy in 2022.
The South Shorts Mentorship Programme is made possible thanks to generous support from Foundation North.
“South Shorts has given me the opportunity to connect with industry experts and fellow storytellers, building my confidence to develop my first short film.”– Ava Williams, 2022
The South Shorts Mentorship Programme, an initiative by Script to Screen funded by Foundation North, has made a significant impact on the South Auckland community and creative storytelling over the past ten years.
By fostering local talent through intensive script development for short films, this programme has supported over 80 aspiring filmmakers to develop their creative visions.
The South Shorts programme which runs five hubs over five months, equips participants with essential skills in script and story development.
The fully-funded programme features mentorship by writer and director Briar Grace-Smith and seminars with industry experts. This combination of mentorship and seminars, helps participants build a strong understanding of the film industry and aids them in refining their scripts for further development, preparing them for the next steps in the process.
Since 2015 numerous films developed during South Shorts have gone on to be made and screened in festivals across the world, including:
Many alumni have gone on to achieve remarkable success, including:
These achievements highlight the programme’s effectiveness as a launch pad for emerging filmmakers. The South Shorts programme has not only contributed to the success of individual participants but has also played a vital role to support the creative community of South Auckland.
“The connections I made were life-changing. I highly recommend these workshops to any filmmaker looking to develop their ideas.” – Kaitiaki Rodger, 2023
“Seeing the progression of my peers and myself is a testament to the quality of the programme and its mentors.” – Dennis Zhang, 2021
As we gear up for the 2024/25 South Shorts Mentorship Programme, Script to Screen remains committed to nurturing diverse voices and stories from South Auckland. The continued support from Foundation North ensures that unique narratives will resonate on screens both locally and beyond.
We look forward to celebrating the next generation of filmmakers and the remarkable stories they will bring to life, further enriching the film industry with their perspectives and creativity.
Troy Blackman developed his short film script for Zebra as a South Shorts particpant in 2023. Now he needs our help to make it happen!
A MESSAGE FROM TROY:
“When I submitted Zebra to Script to Screen, I wasn’t sure they’d let me in – I used the N-word so much in the synopsis. But from the start of this journey, I’ve been met with so much support and reassurance that stories like this need to be told. I can’t thank Briar Grace-Smith, Script to Screen, my team, and all my Boosted supporters enough for getting Zebra this far. We’re just about ready to cross now!”
LOGLINE:
A mixed-race (Black/White) crossing guard, who is repeatedly called the N-word at school, discovers the power of his voice and learns that sticks and stones aren’t the only things that can break bones.
WHY THIS STORY MATTERS:
Zebra is more than a short film; it’s a call to action, challenging that classic Kiwi “she’ll be right” mentality that can often dismiss the power of harmful language. The film explores how words can leave deeper scars than physical violence, forcing us to rethink the adage, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” By placing a black narrative within the context of Aotearoa, Zebra offers a fresh, authentic perspective on how to confront racism and use dialogue to bring about change. Our protagonist, Tobe, uses his voice and the system to outsmart his aggressor, presenting a narrative that is both a coming-of-age story and a cautionary tale.
Troy Blackman – Writer/Director (Photo by Abhi Chinniah)
Troy Blackman is an Afro-Caribbean/NZ European filmmaker based in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) whose work is deeply inspired by his unique ethnic background. Through his films, he explores the complex relationships between race, identity, and society. Zebra is a project born from his lived experience and desire to amplify black voices in Aotearoa, highlighting stories often overlooked by mainstream media. This film is a culmination of his creative journey, developed through the Script to Screen South Shorts Mentorship Programme.
The South Shorts Mentorship Programme is made possible thanks to generous support from Foundation North.
