The Netflix Women in Film program has entered its third edition through a partnership between Netflix and the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture (AFAC), providing training and development opportunities to 35 participants across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Jordan, and Kuwait.
The program, Women in Film III: Training Through Practice, aims to develop emerging women filmmakers while increasing women’s representation in the film industry. Participants will work across two specialized tracks: one focused on writers, directors, and producers developing film projects through mentorship, and another for technical roles including cinematographers, editors, and sound designers.
Program Structure and Delivery
Both tracks combine hands-on workshops with online mentorship sessions. Participants will attend a week-long in-person residency where they refine their work, collaborate with peers, and present projects to industry professionals. The program provides both creative and technical foundations to support career advancement in filmmaking.
Netflix Women in Film Commitment
Pelin Mavili, Director of Global Affairs at Netflix for Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, said the program is essential to building a sustainable and inclusive film industry in the region. Netflix’s partnership with AFAC supports both creative and technical talent while strengthening the ecosystem behind storytelling.
“Each edition builds on the success of the last, with participants gaining hands-on experience and going on to take active roles within the region’s creative landscape.”
Pelin Mavili, Director of Global Affairs, Netflix
AFAC Perspective on Arab Storytelling
Rima Mismar, Executive Director of AFAC, stated that stories from the Arab world carry the depth, complexity, and lived realities of the region. The program creates conditions for these stories to move from idea to execution, equipping women filmmakers with tools, confidence, and collaborative space.
Previous editions of the program have demonstrated measurable impact. Participants from the first edition attended workshops in Cairo, Dubai, and Jeddah before visiting Netflix’s production hub in Madrid at Tres Cantos. Participants from the most recent edition debuted their short films at the Red Sea International Film Festival in 2025.
Application Timeline and Future Outlook
Applications remain open until July 17, with selected participants announced by the end of August. The program reflects Netflix’s broader commitment to supporting diverse voices and expanding opportunities for women in film and audiovisual production across the Arab world through training, mentorship, and creative development.
