Masterclass voor filmmakers: Stories of Belonging

Every year on World Refugee Day (June 20), we worldwide reflect on people who are forced to flee. In this context, IFFR is organizing a special program on Wednesday, June 17, in collaboration with the Buddy Film Foundation and Fenix, and made possible by UNIQLO.

The program consists of two events: a workshop for filmmakers with a refugee background at Fenix, organized by the Buddy Film Foundation, and a screening for the public at LantarenVenster of the Displacement Film Fund short films, which had their world premiere earlier this year during IFFR 2026.

Masterclass Stories of Belonging

The workshop is led by an experienced filmmaker with a refugee background. During the workshop, you will work on your voice as a maker. You will engage in discussions about storytelling, identity, and migration, and explore how to translate personal experiences into film. There is room for artistic exchange, feedback, and meeting other filmmakers.

For whom?

The free masterclass is intended for professional filmmakers and screenwriters with a refugee background who want to further develop their voice and build their careers in the Netherlands.

This masterclass is part of the kick-off of Buddy Career Boost: a film program by Buddy Film Foundation for newcomers with experience in film and television.

Program

< 4:00 PM: museum visit

16:00 – 18:00: masterclass at Fenix

18:00 – 19:00: joint dinner

19:30 – 22:15: screening of the Displacement Film Fund Shorts at LantarenVenster

To register

You do not need to be enrolled in the Buddy Career Boost to participate in this program, so if you are a professional screenwriter or filmmaker with a refugee background and are interested in taking part in the workshop, please submit your application via this link ; the IFFR will contact you as soon as possible regarding your participation. You can register until June 8.

Please note: there are only a limited number of places available, so act fast.