British Council Film Programme – The British Council has officially announced the return of Film Lab Africa 2026, a highly anticipated development programme designed to nurture the next generation of African filmmakers and screen storytellers.
Following the success and lessons drawn from its 2023–2024 pilot phase, the programme is coming back stronger, more focused, and more ambitious in its goals.
Film Lab Africa is a film and television accelerator based in Nigeria, created to empower young African creatives who are passionate about telling authentic stories for screen and broadcast platforms.
British Council Film Programme goes beyond basic training, it builds long-term creative capacity, encourages cross-border collaboration, and supports fair growth within Africa’s fast-evolving creative economy.
With a renewed emphasis on scripted episodic storytelling, the British Council Film Programme 2026 edition promises deeper learning, real production opportunities, and wider visibility for African narratives on local and global stages.
What Makes Film Lab Africa 2026 Different
Unlike conventional filmmaking workshops, Film Lab Africa is structured as a multi-phase accelerator that supports creatives from idea development through production and eventual distribution.
The British Council Film Programme recognizes that strong stories need more than talent, they require mentorship, industry access, funding pathways, and practical exposure.
The British Council Film Programme 2026 edition introduces a clearer creative direction, placing storytelling at the centre of everything. It focuses on helping filmmakers sharpen their writing, improve production quality, and navigate the realities of working in the film and television industry.
Another key strength of Film Lab Africa is its collaborative bridge between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, creating opportunities for shared learning, mentorship, and creative exchange between African and UK-based professionals.
The Story Lab Theme Explained
The British Council Film Programme is themed Story Lab, reflecting its strong focus on scripted episodic content for screen and television. This includes drama series, limited series, and other episodic formats suited for broadcast, streaming platforms, and digital distribution.
By centering on episodic storytelling, the programme allows:
- Writers to develop layered characters and long-form narratives
- Directors to explore visual storytelling across episodes
- Producers to understand sustainable series production models
This focus helps participants operate confidently at the intersection of creativity and industry, preparing them for real-world opportunities in film and television.
Who the British Council Film Programme Is Designed For
Film Lab Africa 2026 is open to young African storytellers, particularly:
- Scriptwriters
- Film and television directors
- Producers
The British Council Film Programme is ideal for creatives who already have some experience but are ready to refine their craft, scale their ideas, and position themselves professionally within the industry.
Participants are selected through an open and competitive process that prioritizes originality, commitment, and readiness for growth.
How Film Lab Africa 2026 Is Structured
The British Council Film Programme runs through six interconnected phases, each designed to support participants at different stages of development while building towards tangible outcomes.
Phase One: Online Training for Scriptwriters
The programme begins with an intensive virtual learning phase for writers.
- 30 scriptwriters are selected through an open call
- Participants take part in online workshops covering:
- Story structure and episodic formats
- Character development and world-building
- Writing for television and screen
- Pitching ideas effectively
- Sustaining long-term writing practice
This phase lays the creative foundation and helps writers strengthen both technical skills and storytelling confidence.
Phase Two: Writers’ Residency and Story Lab
From the initial group, 15 writers are shortlisted for a physical residency experience.
- The residency takes place in Lagos or London
- Writers participate in guided story development sessions
- Close mentorship is provided by experienced professionals from Nigeria and the UK
- Participants refine scripts through feedback, collaboration, and intensive writing practice
This residency is designed to push writers creatively while exposing them to international storytelling standards.
Phase Three: Online Training for Directors and Producers
The programme then expands to include filmmakers responsible for bringing stories to life.
- 60 directors and producers are selected
- Online sessions focus on:
- Episodic production techniques
- Pitching to broadcasters and platforms
- Inclusive storytelling and representation
- Integrating climate and social themes into narratives
This phase ensures that filmmakers understand both creative and business aspects of episodic production.
Phase Four: Production Development and Grant Support
One of the most impactful components of Film Lab Africa 2026 is direct production support.
- Selected filmmakers receive grants to produce pilot episodes
- Support includes:
- Script development guidance
- Funding and budgeting advice
- Mentorship throughout the production process
This phase moves participants beyond theory, giving them hands-on experience in developing professional-quality content.
Phase Five: Showcasing and Distribution Opportunities
Completed projects are not left unseen. The programme places strong emphasis on visibility and audience reach.
- Finished works are showcased locally and internationally
- Activities include:
- Public screenings
- Film festival submissions
- Market presentations and pitch sessions
This exposure helps filmmakers connect with distributors, broadcasters, and industry stakeholders.
Phase Six: Industry Engagement and Creative Advocacy
Film Lab Africa goes beyond individual projects by supporting broader creative engagement.
Activities under this phase include:
- Film clubs and community screenings
- Creative hustle sessions
- Industry conversations and advocacy initiatives
These engagements help build a sustainable creative ecosystem while amplifying African voices.
Skills and Opportunities Participants Gain
Film Lab Africa 2026 offers participants a rare combination of learning, funding, mentorship, and exposure. Through the programme, creatives gain:
- Advanced storytelling and script development skills
- Practical experience in episodic production
- Industry-standard pitching techniques
- Access to mentors from Africa and the UK
- Opportunities for cross-border collaboration
- Increased visibility within the film and television industry
For many participants, the programme serves as a career-defining turning point.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
Applicants interested in Film Lab Africa 2026 must meet all of the following criteria:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Have completed at least:
- One web-based project
- One non-web project
- With credited roles in production
- Possess a script that is ready for development and production
- Submit a detailed production bible
- Complete the required British Council e-learning programme before final selection
The programme is competitive, and only applicants who demonstrate readiness and commitment will be selected.
Application Process Explained
Interested creatives can apply through the official Film Lab Africa application platform managed by the British Council.
Applicants are expected to:
- Complete the online application form
- Submit required creative materials
- Demonstrate previous experience and future potential
Careful attention should be paid to submission guidelines, as incomplete applications may not be considered.
Important Application Notes
- The programme is designed to be inclusive and merit-based
- Selection focuses on creative quality, originality, and growth potential
- Applicants should ensure all materials are authentic and properly credited
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and prepare strong submissions that clearly communicate their creative vision.
Application Deadline
As of now, no official deadline has been announced for Film Lab Africa 2026. However, applicants are strongly advised to monitor official British Council communication channels for updates and apply as soon as possible once ready.
Why Film Lab Africa Matters
Film Lab Africa represents more than a training programme, it is an investment in Africa’s storytelling future. By equipping young filmmakers with the tools, networks, and confidence they need, the initiative helps ensure that African stories are told with depth, integrity, and global relevance.
For emerging creatives seeking a structured pathway into episodic film and television, Film Lab Africa 2026 offers a rare and valuable opportunity.
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