Novel initiative to nurture local film talent launched

A unique internship programme focused on developing local film talent in the UAE was announced yesterday.

Imagenation Abu Dhabi, in association with the Abu Dhabi Film Commission, announced the launch of "Mawaheb", (which means talents in English), that will offer Emirati students with an interest in filmmaking the opportunity to gain hands-on experience abroad.

Support will be provided by Imagenation Abu Dhabi's international partners, including such leading production companies as Participant Media, National Geographic Films and Hyde Park Entertainment. There will be a mix of internships on offer, including appointments at joint venture offices in Los Angeles and New York City, and placements on the films sets of productions across the United States and India.

Mohamed Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of Imagenation Abu Dhabi, said: "The key to developing a sustainable film industry in the UAE is to nurture our homegrown talent. We have a generation of creative and gifted young Emiratis whose careers can only benefit from exposure to the best in the international film business. Our hope is that through our internship programme, we can identify high-potential talent that can play a role in the future of film in this region."

The introduction of the internship programme follows the announcement of Imagenation Abu Dhabi's first slate of diverse Emirati films which demonstrates their commitment to discovering and fostering a pool of new talent, with the objective of preparing them to work in the industry.

Upon completing their international assignments, interns will be able to apply their learning by joining the ranks of Imagenation Abu Dhabi's film crew, while continuing to receive guidance and on the ground training, in front of and behind the camera.

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