Doculab 10for50 Suriname Kicks Off

Last week, the first workshops took place for the 10 selected projects of Doculab 10for50 in Suriname. Under the guidance of coaches John Appel (documentary filmmaker of Once the Dust Settles and Buddy) and Renko Douze (producer of Holding up the Sky and Last Male Standing), the participants engaged in a highly productive and inspiring week-long session to develop their film plans into a 50-minute documentary.

Doculab 10for50 is a three-year program that introduces the selected group of filmmakers to all aspects of documentary filmmaking. Last week, the group traveled to Reti Doti, where the filmmakers explored which phase of the production process their film plans were in. Through various group activities and practical assignments, the participants exchanged feedback and tips with each other.

The next workshop week will take place in September, with coaches Nathalie Crum and Eugenie Jansen traveling to Suriname to further guide the participants in the program.

Doculab 10for50 is a collaboration between the Netherlands Film Fund and the Surinamese foundation The Back Lot, and it is part of the development of Suriname's film industry infrastructure.

In November 2022, Doculab 10for50 was launched in commemoration of Suriname's 50 years of independence in 2025. Over the course of a week, 21 applicants attended documentary workshops, pitch sessions, and research training at various locations around Paramaribo. In early 2023, 10 filmmakers were selected from this group for the next phase of the program. The projects, which will be showcased in cinemas by the end of 2025, will reflect the Surinamese culture and society.

During the course of Doculab 10voor50, the Fund is also regularly present in the country to map out the Surinamese film sector through discussions with various Surinamese parties and to help strengthen the country's network in the international film sector.