Call for Entries

Exploitation and pornography genres are not eligible for entry.

The Slum Film Festival stands as a pioneering platform where stories from informal settlements find space for artistic expression. By centering filmmakers who live in these communities, the festival amplifies voices that often go unheard in mainstream cinema. The initiative extends an open invitation to storytellers across Africa and beyond, recognizing that meaningful narratives about urban poverty deserve visibility and respect. Through curated screenings and celebratory events, the festival builds bridges between grassroots creators and a global audience curious about lived realities beyond conventional frames.

Submission guidelines reflect the organization's commitment to accessibility and authenticity. The festival welcomes short films crafted by filmmakers residing in informal settlements as well as works produced by anyone exploring life within these communities. Eligible genres span drama, documentary, and community-focused reporting, each with defined runtime limits that respect both creative ambition and viewing attention. Genres deemed exploitative are deliberately excluded, ensuring the program maintains integrity and dignity throughout its selections. This careful curation reinforces the festival's dedication to responsible storytelling.

Past editions have attracted submissions from filmmakers spanning multiple countries, demonstrating the universal resonance of the festival's mission. The selection process brings together diverse perspectives, blending local knowledge with international craftsmanship. By maintaining consistent categories across years, the organization allows returning filmmakers to grow within a familiar framework while inviting newcomers to participate confidently. Award ceremonies celebrate achievement across multiple dimensions of filmmaking craft, honoring both technical skill and narrative power. Jury deliberations remain a cornerstone of the recognition process.

Beyond the competition itself, the festival cultivates a broader community through screenings, panel discussions, and visiting filmmaker programs. Mentorship initiatives pair participants with experienced practitioners, fostering skill development and creative exchange. Selected works tour through community screenings, extending reach beyond gala audiences into the settlements that inspired the films. Annual reports document growth and impact, while financial transparency reassures partners invested in sustainable cultural programming. Together these activities form an ecosystem supporting filmmakers long after submission windows close.