applications now closed

writing the short film

Thank you to everyone who applied. Follow us on social media for updates!

About the Course

An intensive, fully online, 8-week course for ten emerging South African screenwriters. Through structured mentorship and collaborative learning, participants will:

  • Develop two polished short-film scripts workshopped with professional feedback.
  • Craft industry-standard development materials like loglines and synopses.
  • Elevate their creative profiles with revised bios and narrative statements.
  • Gain screenwriting tools and resources.
Delivery Format
  • Live Sessions: Weekly Zoom workshops (Saturdays, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. SAST)
  • Learning Approach: Hands-on writing assignments and peer feedback
  • Resources: LMS access with recordings and course materials
THEOLINE MAPHUTHA, WGSA

Screenwriter, industry advocate, trainer, and script reader. A WGSA Service Excellence Award–winning MFA graduate from AFI Conservatory. Filmmaker producing short films though the solo intellect production company.

Instructor Statement

I designed WSF in response to the countless early-career writers who, despite having great ideas, struggled to bridge the gap between those ideas and a screenplay. By combining practical workshops, live table reads, and hands-on feedback within a structured 8-week framework, the course delivers the kind of industry-focused guidance not available elsewhere. It’s built to transform raw talent into ready-to-shoot short films and to equip each participant with the confidence, craft, and portfolio they need to start their screenwriting journey.

Eligibility & Requirements
  • Nationality: South African citizens/permanent residents only
  • Age: 18+ (priority to youth 18-35 and historically disadvantaged groups)
  • Experience: No prior screenwriting or film background required
  • Tech: Computer or laptop with webcam; reliable internet
  • Commitment: Full attendance and timely assignment submissions
  • Access: Data support provided for selected participants
Application Requirements

Submit the following via the online portal:

  • Application Form (basic details and eligibility questions)
  • Submission Materials (in English)
    • Video Introduction (60 sec, unlisted video link)
    • CV or Resume (1-2 pages)
    • Short Bio (150 words, third person)
    • Narrative Statement (450 words, first person)
    • Script Assignment: “The Discovery” (5-page PDF)
    • Project Proposal (logline, synopsis, and personal connection)

Questions? Check out the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) tab!

Application Process

Access the Form:

  • The application can be accessed in the “Submit Your Application Tab” on our website.
  • Save your progress anytime—use the same device/browser.

Submission Confirmation:

  • After submitting, you’ll receive an auto-generated email from Fillout with a copy of your responses.
  • Check spam/promotions folders if you don’t see it within 10 minutes.

Deadline:

Applications for this round are now closed. Thank you to everyone who applied! Follow us on social media for updates.

Key Dates
Item Date
Applications Open
Thursday, 24 April 2025 (10:00 AM SAST)
Applications Close
Thursday, 8 May 2025 (11:59 PM SAST)
Informational Webinar
Monday, 5 May 2025 (07:00 PM SAST)
Shortlist Notification
Monday, 19 May 2025
Final Selection Notifications
Late May 2025
  1. Personal Information
    Basic details including your name, location, and contact info.
  2. Eligibility Questions
    A few yes/no questions to confirm you meet the programme criteria.
  3. Video Introduction (60 seconds, unlisted video link)
    Introduce yourself, tell us where you’re from, and share why you’d like to join the programme
  4. CV or Resume (1-2 pages)
    Highlight your background, skills, and any relevant (or unrelated) work or creative experience. If you have any references, a maximum of two.
  5. Short Bio (max 150 words, third person)
    Give us a snapshot of your background and creative identity.
  6. Narrative Statement
    Reflect on your personal story, screenwriting aspirations, creative goals, and collaborative experiences.
  7. Script Assignment: “The Discovery” (max 5 pages)
    An original scene based on the assignment brief. Follow formatting guidelines and submit as a PDF.
  8. Project Proposal
    • Logline (1-2 sentence summary)
    • Synopsis (beginning, middle, and end)
    • Personal connection (why this story matters to you)
  • Promise over polish: Show your storytelling potential.
  • Authenticity: Share your unique voice and perspective.
  • All applicants will be notified of their application status via email.
  • Shortlisted candidates may be invited to a brief online interview.
WSF FAQs

Not sure about something? We’ve answered the most common questions about applying and participating.

Eligibility & Requirements

I’ve never written a script before. Can I still apply?
Absolutely! No previous screenwriting experience is required. Bring your creativity to the script assignment, narrative statement, and other materials.

I’m not currently a student or working in film. Does that matter?
Not at all! Great storytellers come from every background. If you have a passion for storytelling, we want to hear from you.

Is there an age limit?
You must be at least 18 years old on the date of application. Following NFVF/DSAC equity priorities, preference is given to youth (18-35) and historically disadvantaged groups.

Is this programme only for South Africans?
Yes. The 2025 WSF programme is open exclusively to South African citizens and permanent residents.

I live outside Gauteng. Can I still participate?
Certainly. The course is 100% online. You’ll just need a computer or laptop with a webcam and reliable internet access.

What if I don’t have reliable internet access?
If selected, you’ll receive data support to help you attend live sessions and access materials.

How do I submit my application materials?
Your submission includes a mix of uploaded PDFs, form entries, and one video link:

 

Submit as PDFs: CV/Resume (1-2 pages) and Screenplay Assignment (5-page scene)

Enter directly into the application form: Short Bio, Narrative Statement, Project Proposal (logline, synopsis, personal connection)

Submit a video link: Video Introduction
Paste a link from one of the following:
– YouTube (unlisted)
– Vimeo (unlisted)
– Google Drive (make sure sharing is set to “Anyone with the link can view”)
Double-check that your video link is accessible without login or permission requests
Make sure your video remains accessible until, at least, a week after the closing date to allow time for review
Links to any other materials (like your CV or script) will not be accepted

 

Is there an application fee?
No. The application is completely free.

 

Do I need to disclose if I used AI?
Yes. You must disclose any use of AI in your application materials.
For example, “We used ChatGPT to refine the FAQs section. All questions and answers are our own”.

 

What language should I use?
Submit all materials in English (the course language). However, you are encouraged to develop projects in your home or preferred language after the programme.

How long should the video be?
Between 30 to 60 seconds.

What should I say?
Introduce yourself, tell us where you’re from, and explain why you want to join WSF.

Does video quality matter?
Not at all. Use your phone, face a window for natural light, and record in one uninterrupted take. We’re interested in your passion, not production value.

Can I edit the video or add music?
Please don’t. Keep it simple – one take, no editing, no music.

Who will see my video?
Only the WSF evaluation panel.

What should my CV include?
In 1-2 pages, list your education, work experience (related or unrelated to writing), skills, and any honours or awards.

How do I format references?
References are optional but encouraged. Include the person’s name, relationship (e.g., teacher, mentor, collaborator), and email. If you don’t have references, that’s okay too.

What is the short bio for?
A 150-word paragraph that gives us a sense of your background, achievements, and creative identity.

How do I write it?
Write it in the third person (he, she, they), focusing on your journey.

What exactly is a narrative statement?
It’s a short essay (450 words max) written in the first person. Think of it as your creative cover letter.

What should I include?
Write an introduction and then four brief paragraphs/sections:
– Personal Story: What life experiences shape what and how you write?
– Screenwriting Inspiration: Which films, stories, or moments drew you to screenwriting?
– Collaboration: Share an example of working with others in a creative setting.
– Goals: How do you think this programme will help you with your writing aspirations?
Finish with a short conclusion.

Any other formatting tips?
Keep paragraphs short (4-6 lines). Be clear, honest, and focused on storytelling, not technical terms.

How strict is the 5-page script limit?
Very. Submit no more than 5 pages (and at least 2.5 pages) to allow enough story for assessment.

What are the key storytelling requirements?
– Two characters (one must be the protagonist)
– Discovery of a tangible object
– No flashbacks, narration, or dream sequences
– Sparse, purposeful dialogue
– Set in the present
– Ends with a visual cliffhanger (a question, not an answer)

Do I need to use professional software?
No. Use any tool – MS Word, Google Docs, WriterDuet, Arc Studio, Fade In – as long as the formatting resembles standard screenplay layout and you export it to PDF.

What should the proposal include?
– Logline (1-2 sentences summary)
– Three paragraphs: beginning, middle, and end (yes, include the ending)
– A short note on why this story matters to you

How polished should it be?
Keep it simple! Your idea will evolve during the programme. Just be clear and compelling.

How are the applications scored?

  • Writing skills: Originality, creativity, and following the brief
  • Video introduction: clarity, voice, and intent
  • Demographics: In line with the funder’s equity mandate (youth, race, etc.)

Can I revise my application after submission?
No. Please double-check everything before you hit submit.

What if I miss the deadline?
Unfortunately, late applications will not be accepted.

When will I hear back about my application?
Final decisions will be communicated via email. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview.

Are the live sessions mandatory?
Yes. Participation in scheduled online sessions and assignment deadlines is essential.

Can I apply if I’ve participated in other PESP programmes?
Possibly, but you may be overqualified for this entry-level course.

Are group applications allowed?
No. Applications are assessed individually and must be submitted by the applicant alone.

Can I apply more than once?
We recommend submitting only one application. It requires focus and reflection. Time is of the essence!

An initiative by the solo intellect, proudly supported by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) through the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP 5).

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