Doha, Qatar: Doha Film Institute (DFI) has announced five film luminaries who will be the Qumra Masters of its eleventh annual industry event, set to run from April 4-9, 2025.
A groundbreaking talent incubator in the Arab world that drives the success of first and second-time filmmakers from the region and beyond, Qumra connects emerging filmmakers with celebrated cinematic masters and provides invaluable industry networking and collaboration opportunities.
With a wealth of diverse perspectives from across the global film community, Qumra Masters provide participants with one-on-one mentorship to equip filmmakers with essential tools to hone their craft and refine their projects to realize their artistic visions.
Doha Film Institute will welcome this years Qumra Masters Lav Diaz, Darius Khondji, Walter Salles, Anna Terrazas and Johnnie To, to share the visionary perspectives they have gained throughout their luminous careers and inspire the next wave of creators who will shape the trajectory of cinema.
Chief Executive Officer of the DFI Fatma Hassan Alremaihi said, "we are truly honored to welcome some of the worlds most celebrated creatives Lav Diaz, Darius Khondji, Walter Salles, Anna Terrazas and Johnnie To as Qumra Masters, joining the legacy of iconic storytellers who have supported us on our mission to empower important voices in film. Their artistry, innovation, and commitment to storytelling have left an indelible mark on world cinema.
"By sharing their knowledge and experience with our Qumra participants, they will inspire a new generation to refine their craft, and tell bold enduring stories that will shape the future of cinema," she added.
Elia Suleiman, Artistic Advisor at DFI, said, "cinema is not just the stories we tell, but the silences in between the spaces where meaning lingers. At Qumra, these silences resonate loudly, where emerging voices are amplified by the wisdom of the Qumra Masters. It is a place of transformation, where the future of film is not dictated, but discovered."
Over the past decade, Qumra has cemented its position as a cornerstone of the global filmmaking industry, supporting important independent voices in cinema and providing groundbreaking opportunities for participants to elevate their craft and creative process.
In the 11th edition of Qumra, Masterclasses for up and coming filmmakers from the region and around the world will provide unparalleled creative development and mentorship opportunities. Participants also receive mentorship from and key business meetings with leading global film industry experts.
Qumra has established itself as an influential force in the film industry in its ongoing mission to champion independent voices from across the world and uplift storytelling through mentorship, feedback panels, screenings, and more.
Open to the public this year will be Qumra Master Classes, featuring inspirational insights from industry professionals, and Qumra Screenings, a curated selection of regional and international films supported by Doha Film Institute through training, and funding initiatives.
