2023 Leading Lights Applications Open
Now seeking emerging and diverse screen creatives
The Australian International Documentary Conference (AIDC) has opened applications for the 2023 Leading Lights program, supporting emerging, Indigenous and/or culturally and linguistically diverse screen creatives to attend AIDC for the first time and receive professional development opportunities.
Leading Lights is AIDC’s philanthropic funding program, assisting industry newcomers to establish themselves as part of Australia’s nonfiction screen community. Since launching in 2018, over 180 emerging and diverse screen creatives have been able to attend AIDC for the first time and participate in the Leading Lights professional development program.
All selected Leading Lights recipients receive a complimentary Sessions Pass allowing them to attend AIDC 2023 and to participate in the Leading Lights Program, supported by program partner AFTRS.
In 2023, the Leading Lights Program will include a Leading Lights Pitching Workshop, with four participants selected for a special Leading Lights Pitch to program donors representing broadcasters, producers, screen agencies and funders, designed to provide exclusive industry insights and connections.
2023 also sees the return of two supporting initiatives: the Leading Lights Industry Program, connecting Leading Lights to industry opportunities; and the Leading Lights Alumni Program, providing pathways for previous Leading Lights to participate in the current Conference program and developing a cohort of emerging filmmakers.
“I found such value in being a part of the 2022 Leading Lights initiative,” said Sofia Viegas, 2022 Leading Lights Pitch participant.
“I loved being able to connect with other emerging creatives … and I’ve gained some great contacts and friendships from it. In terms of the pitch, what an incredible opportunity to have been given feedback from some of the industry’s best!”
AIDC would like to extend a huge thanks to Leading Lights program partner AFTRS, and our early donor supporters: ABC, SBS and VicScreen (five passes each); Paul Wiegard (three passes); CJZ and Fremantle Australia (two passes each); and Tilt Media & Entertainment, Renegade Films, and Chemical Media (one pass each).
“Leading Lights is a fantastic way for us to connect with new voices in the documentary landscape,” said Sam Griffin, Head of Unscripted, Tilt Media.
“We get to meet so many talented filmmakers who have already set themselves apart from the crowd just by being selected for the program.”
Applications for the 2023 Leading Lights Program are open now, with a closing date of Wednesday 18 January 2023.
For more information and to apply, visit the Leading Lights page.