The Open Film School Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing film and media education. Our mission is to empower students in low-income groups with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to the rapidly evolving landscape of media.
Through innovative programs and resources, we aim to help students make sense of the pervasive influence of media in their lives and equip them with the tools to critically analyze, create, and engage with various forms of visual storytelling. Whether it’s understanding the power of cinema, mastering digital media production, or exploring the intricacies of storytelling techniques, we strive to cultivate a community of informed and inspired media enthusiasts.

Media education plays a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

SDG 16.10 on public access to information and fundamental freedoms cannot be achieved without independent media which can help in achieving all SDGs – whether gender equality, climate change eliminating poverty, reducing inequalities, and sustainable cities.

At the heart of our foundation is a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to explore their passion for film and media regardless of background or socioeconomic status. Through our outreach initiatives, we seek to break down barriers and foster a diverse community of aspiring filmmakers and storytellers.

Donate/Participate

The Open Film School Foundation invites you to participate in our ongoing training Workshops. The workshops are designed and conducted by alumni of New York Film Academy and Film and Television Institute of India.

Programs

You can also Donate to our ongoing Documentary projects and participate in the making gaining Hands-on filmmaking experience and a credit.

Internship Program

The Open Film School Foundation’s Documentary Filmmaking Internship

In the ever-evolving landscape of visual storytelling, documentary filmmaking stands as a powerful medium for capturing truth, shedding light on untold stories, and inspiring change. Recognizing the importance of nurturing the next generation of documentary filmmakers, journalists, and humanities scholars, The Open Film School Foundation proudly offers an immersive and transformative Documentary Filmmaking Internship.

With a commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and ethical storytelling, the internship program provides aspiring filmmakers and storytellers with a unique opportunity to dive deep into the art and craft of documentary filmmaking. Under the guidance of experienced industry professionals and mentors, interns embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and self-expression.

The internship curriculum is designed to offer a comprehensive and hands-on learning experience, covering every aspect of the documentary filmmaking process. From conceptualizing and researching compelling stories to filming, editing, and post-production, interns gain practical skills and insights that are invaluable for their future careers in filmmaking, journalism, or the humanities.

One of the key highlights of the internship is the emphasis on ethical considerations in documentary filmmaking. Interns learn to navigate complex ethical dilemmas, uphold journalistic integrity, and prioritize the voices and experiences of their subjects. Through workshops, seminars, and discussions, they engage in critical conversations about representation, bias, and the responsibility of the filmmaker to the audience and the community.

Furthermore, interns have the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students and professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. Whether they come from filmmaking, journalism, or humanities backgrounds, each intern brings a unique perspective and skill set to the table, enriching the collaborative process and enhancing the quality of the final documentary projects.

Throughout the internship, interns are encouraged to push the boundaries of storytelling, experiment with different filmmaking techniques, and explore innovative ways of engaging their audience. They have access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, allowing them to bring their creative visions to life with professional polish and precision.

In addition to technical skills, interns also develop essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, which are essential for success in the competitive field of documentary filmmaking. They learn to navigate the challenges of production, problem-solve on the fly, and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle the realities of the industry.

As a culmination of their internship experience, interns have the opportunity to showcase their documentary projects at a public screening event or film festival. This not only provides them with a platform to share their work with a wider audience but also serves as a celebration of their accomplishments and a testament to their growth as filmmakers and storytellers.

Moreover, the internship offers networking opportunities with industry professionals, alumni, and potential collaborators, opening doors to future career opportunities and collaborations. Many interns have gone on to pursue successful careers in documentary filmmaking, journalism, academia, and related fields, leveraging the skills and experiences gained during their internship.

Ultimately, The Open Film School Foundation’s Documentary Filmmaking Internship is more than just a training program—it’s a transformative experience that empowers aspiring filmmakers and storytellers to uncover truth, amplify voices, and make a meaningful impact on the world. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and collaboration, interns emerge from the program with the knowledge, confidence, and passion to create compelling documentaries that inspire, inform, and provoke change.

As the world continues to grapple with pressing social, environmental, and humanitarian issues, the need for powerful and thought-provoking documentary filmmaking has never been greater. By investing in the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers, The Open Film School Foundation is not only shaping the future of the industry but also contributing to a more informed, empathetic, and engaged global community.

Application

Focus On Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)


Documentaries focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as powerful tools for raising awareness, inspiring action, and fostering dialogue around pressing global issues. By shining a spotlight on the interconnected challenges and opportunities outlined in the SDGs, these documentaries play a crucial role in mobilizing individuals, communities, and policymakers to work towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

Identifying an Initiative

Interns will research and identify an Initiative, organisation or Non profit that works tirelessly to address a social cause of their choosing. This will involve conducting thorough research to understand the mission, impact, and initiatives of the chosen nonprofit.

Research

Interns will delve deep into the workings of the selected entity, conducting interviews, gathering footage, and documenting the organization’s efforts to bring about positive change in their community or beyond.

Documentary Proposal

Based on their research findings, interns will collaborate with our team to propose a documentary concept that effectively communicates the story and impact of the chosen nonprofit. This will involve brainstorming ideas, outlining the narrative arc, and developing a compelling pitch for the documentary.

Discover a world of possibilities

Get Started

Working as a volunteer can be a valuable stepping stone towards finding a future job in several ways:

  1. Skill Development: Volunteering offers opportunities to develop and enhance a wide range of skills, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and project management. These skills are highly sought after by employers across various industries and can significantly strengthen your resume.
  2. Networking: Volunteering provides opportunities to connect with professionals and organizations in your field of interest. By building relationships with fellow volunteers, staff members, and community partners, you can expand your professional network and uncover potential job opportunities through referrals and recommendations.
  3. Gain Experience: Volunteering allows you to gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, providing valuable insights into industry trends, best practices, and day-to-day responsibilities. This practical experience can demonstrate your commitment to the field and make you a more competitive candidate when applying for paid positions.
  4. Explore Career Paths: Volunteering offers a low-risk way to explore different career paths and industries before committing to a full-time job. By trying out different roles and projects, you can gain clarity about your interests, strengths, and career goals, helping you make more informed decisions about your future career path.
  5. Demonstrate Passion and Commitment: Volunteering shows employers that you are passionate, proactive, and committed to making a positive impact in your community or chosen field. Employers value candidates who demonstrate a genuine interest in their work and a willingness to go above and beyond to contribute to the organization’s mission and goals.
  6. Fill Employment Gaps: Volunteering can help fill employment gaps on your resume, especially if you are transitioning between jobs or seeking to gain experience in a new field. Volunteering shows employers that you have been actively engaged and productive during periods of unemployment, demonstrating your motivation and initiative.
  7. Build Confidence: Volunteering can boost your confidence and self-esteem by providing opportunities to take on new challenges, learn new skills, and make meaningful contributions to others. This increased confidence can translate into greater success in job interviews and professional interactions.
  8. Overall, working as a volunteer can be a valuable investment in your future career success, providing opportunities to develop skills, build networks, gain experience, explore career paths, demonstrate passion and commitment, fill employment gaps, and build confidence. By leveraging your volunteer experiences effectively, you can enhance your employability and increase your chances of finding a future job that aligns with your interests, values, and goals.