By Karabo Ntanzi
The National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), an entity of the Department of Arts, Sports and Culture, held a road show for the Presidential Employment Stimulus Project (PESP).
PESP was introduced four years ago during COVID. The purpose of PESP was to assist artists in invigorating the industry and to create jobs because artists were hit the hardest during the COVID era due to joblessness.
The President’s office dispersed over R179.2 Million to the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC). The departmen, thereafter allocated a portion to the NFVF to distribute among film and production artists.
The call is open from 6 to 28 April. The NFVF usually advertises on its website and conducts sessions to share more information regarding funding and other available opportunities.
Tsietsi Themane, Project manager at NFVF expressed disappointment at the poor attendance in the Northern Cape. He said they experience challenges with receiving applications from the province. Hence the emphasis is on smaller provinces such as North West and Limpopo. In contrast, the Western Cape, Gauteng and Kwazulu Natal are active.
Themane hinted that the manner in which information is disseminated could be the reason for the low rate of applications.
Nfvf covers production, training and marketing of films.
There are no restrictions concerning the subject or length of the film. Artists can write about anything in a language of their choice.
He explained the process, “each project has three evaluators, followed by a panel meeting where recommendations are made. The council approves successful projects. Projects are allocated marks and participants must score at least 70% to receive funding.”
He said as a way to develop artists, they make notes and recommendations to unsuccessful applicants to work on areas that need improvement or wait for the next call-out.
One of the delegates, Thato Mokubung, a filmmaker indicated that artists have challenges with compliance. According to Mokubung, submitting projects is complex, because it includes quoting, costing, writing synopsis and other related requirements.
In response, Thamane reiterated the importance of attending workshops where artists can receive assistance. He encouraged artists not to be discouraged but to request notes and work on the recommendations.
“The NFVF is there for artists. We have additional funding models and are not limited to the PESP because we are mandated to develop the film and production industry,” he added.
Artists are invited to visit the NFVF and check out other open calls.
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