Since 2009, Script to Screen has proudly delivered 18 workshops throughout Northland and the Far North. Nurturing the talents of young filmmakers from Hokianga, Rawene, Whirinaki, Kaikohe, Kerikeri and Whangārei.
Each session provides a unique experience, fostering skills in writing, directing, and producing and acting while also offering an opportunity to connect with other creatives.
Given our extensive experience and expertise in developing people’s creativity and their projects, Script to Screen recognises the essential role filmmaking and the wider arts play in people lives.
We disagree with the recent government kōrero that the arts are a “nice to have”. From our experience, we understand the true value creative development programmes and workshops like the ones that Script to Screen run have for the individuals participating in them, along with their wider community. That is why we are committed to continuing to offer this unique create pathway within Northland for the next generation of screen storytellers to develop their skills and creative voice.
Film still, taken from Qianne Titore’s short film NATALIE.
The 2016 Hokianga Filmmaking Workshop served as a platform for young voices to be heard. Qianne Titore’s short film NATALIE went on the screen at the Wairoa Film Festival and New Zealand International Film Festival.
Qianna Titore (Ngāti Hau, Ngāti Kaharau) went on to graduate from AUT with a Bachelor’s of Communication Studies in Television. She is the youngest filmmaker selected for the NZ international film festival with her short film NATALIE, made in the Hokianga as part of a filmmaking workshop run by Script to Screen. Qianna also won Best Documentary/Pakipūmeka Mātua for Wāhine Toa at the 2019 E Tū Whānau Rangatahi Film Award.
Founded in 2007 Script to Screen has seen the evidence of the positive impact the arts has in communities across Aotearoa, and is committed to fostering opportunities for young talent to thrive through participating in filmmaking.
The impact of these specific workshops is reflected in the words of our past participants:
“Having a creative space that gives youth an accepting and open environment to express themselves leaves a positive effect. Initiatives like this should be held all over the country.” — Workshop Participant, 2020
“This workshop is important to young people in Northland as it allows them to gain a better understanding of the film industry and how to develop their own skills.” — Workshop Participant, 2020
“Kids aspiring to be part of the film industry need access to amazing workshops that bring together a like-minded community. I’ve left feeling like I have knowledge that can only be taught in person.” — Workshop Participant, 2023
As we head into the new year, Script to Screen are excited to announce, thanks to the continued support of Foundation North, we will continue our creative journey with the Northland Film Workshops coming back to Whangārei for the 6th year in 2025!
The Northland Film Workshops consist of a four-day programme aimed at young people aged 14 to 17 and a one-day adult workshop for people 17+, funded by Foundation North and brought to you by Script to Screen.
The workshops mentioned were made possible thanks to generous support from Foundation North.
