CineGouna Emerge Program: Empowering the Next Generation of Filmmakers in Egypt

The CineGouna Emerge program is designed to empower the next generation of filmmakers in Egypt. In partnership with the Drosos foundation and the Sawiris Foundation for Social Development, El Gouna Film Festival invites film students and young filmmakers, offering them access to all aspects of the festival. They can take part in panels, masterclasses, workshops, film screenings, and networking and learning opportunities tailored just for them. 

The program is open to young filmmakers and film professionals working in any aspect of the film industry – including screenwriters, directors, producers, actors, cinematographers, sound engineers, art directors, as well as aspiring distributors, film critics, programmers, etc. 

Apply Now for CineGouna Emerge Program!

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be between the age of 18 to 35.

• Applicants must currently reside in Egypt.

• Applicants must have participated in the creation of a short film, feature film, TV series, or other visual arts projects.

• Alternatively, they should be currently enrolled in or have recently graduated from a visual arts or film educational program, or be able to demonstrate a connection to the film industry (eg. a research project, written articles, curated film program, etc.) 

Program Benefits:

• Selected participants will have their travel, accommodation, food, and accreditation fully covered. 

• Selected participants will have access to El Gouna Film Festival’s activities including panels, masterclasses, workshops, and film screenings, as well as to a tailored networking and educational program. 

• Selected participants will become members of the alumni community gathering all past participants of Cinegouna Emerge programs, where ongoing support shall be provided, and opportunities will be promoted.

Inclusivity & Accessibility:

The program ensures no discrimination based on gender, disability, or socio-economic background, with representation from diverse geographical areas and inclusion of refugees and migrants. Applicants who demonstrate financial need will be prioritized. 

Application Process:

Applications will be accepted via an open call through an Eventival questionnaire. An internal panel will select participants based on eligibility and selection criteria. Selected participants will be notified directly. 

Apply Now for CineGouna Emerge Program!

About Drosos Foundation

DROSOS FOUNDATION is a private non-profit organization dedicated to unlocking the potential of young people by supporting them to become economically and socially resilient. Established in 2003 in Zürich, Switzerland, DROSOS seeks long-term impact through its supported projects in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Morocco, Tunisia, Switzerland and Germany. The FOUNDATION has been operational in Egypt since 2005 and has supported more than 130 projects, across different governorates.

About Sawiris Foundation (SF)

SF was founded in 2001 by the Sawiris family, and stands as one of Egypt’s foremost philanthropic foundations. With a commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions, SF has consistently worked to address Egypt’s most pressing social and economic challenges. By collaborating with the government, private sector, and civil society, SF has positively impacted nearly one million Egyptians through sustainable programs that generate jobs, improve education, and enhance essential services.

With its 2023-2028 strategy, SF aims to reduce multidimensional poverty and empower change-agents across Egypt. The foundation is also dedicated to supporting Egypt’s cultural and artistic heritage. Since 2005, the Sawiris Cultural Award (SCA) has recognized both emerging and established Egyptian writers, while the Sawiris Arts and Culture Scholarship (SACS) provides aspiring Egyptian artists the opportunity to study at world-class universities and residency programs aboard. Through these initiatives and numerous other cultural programs, SF plays a key role in fostering Egypt’s vibrant artistic and cultural landscape.