From Basseterre to Berlin - Reppin' De Caribbean at European Film Market

I was honoured, blessed and grateful to be one of 5 #Caribbean #filmmakers selected by the IIPE UNESCO América Latina y el Caribe 's Transcultura Programme to participate in the Documentary Toolbox Programme at the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) , the premier industry networking event of the European Film Market – EFM .

The Festival, which took place in Germany (February 16-22, 2023) hosted over 8,000 representatives of the international film and media industries from over 100 countries and for the first time this year featured a stand dedicated to Caribbean cinema. This has been made possible by the support of the UNESCO programme?Transcultura: Integrating Cuba, the Caribbean and the European Union through Culture and Creativity, funded by the European Union .?

"In the Caribbean, we have important stories to tell, representing our collective struggles and our creative ambitions. Being in a space like the EFM, where we can meet producers, writers, editors, and from Europe and all over the world is crucial to make our voices heard."?

-Klieon C. John, producer from Saint Kitts and Nevis

One of my biggest takeaways from this experience was an understanding of the vast behind-the-scenes network of organisations, companies, groups and individuals that make up the global film industry; the navigation of which requires a precise balancing of passion, focus, preparation and serendipity.

I was also touched by the natural support and camaraderie that exists among filmmakers and the people working tirelessly to support our dreams. I'm grateful to the team at UNESCO Caribbean's Transcultura Programme for their vision and dedication to supporting my dreams.

Read full article here: https://en.unesco.org/news/unesco-transcultura-facilitates-largest-caribbean-presence-berlinales-european-film-market

#film #Caribbean #latinamerica #europe #europeanunion #creativity #writers #producers #media #culture #networking #filmmaking