I’m back at the Berlinale Talent Doc Station as a mentor for this year’s incredible cohort of selected projects. The opportunity to collaborate alongside esteemed mentors Don Edkins, Jakob Hogel, Jia Zhao, and Gary Byungseok Kam is truly an honor.

The vibrant atmosphere of Berlinale is always special, and being part of the Talent Doc Station adds an extra layer of excitement. It’s a platform that not only nurtures emerging documentary filmmakers but also fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas, experiences, and creativity. With a journey of mutual growth, to me as well.

I am anticipating the unique and the powerful narratives that will emerge from this year’s Talent Doc Station and the voices and visions that shape our understanding of the world.

more information on Berlinale Talents website

Photo courtesy to Berlinale.

Stepping into the realm of documentary filmmaking has always been a source of immense joy and inspiration for me. The recent engagement at Docs by the Sea was nothing short of a revelation. In July, during the online storytelling lab, we delved deep into the intricacies of four projects, unearthing narratives that are nothing short of beautiful and unique.

As I reflect on my recent engagement at Docs by the Sea, a sense of contentment washes over me. In July, during the online storytelling lab, we dived deep into four projects, uncovering narratives that were nothing short of beautiful and unique.

I had the privilege of working closely with a group of exceptional filmmakers, each with their own distinctive vision. Ngoc Trang Thy Nguyen, a unique artist and director whose self-reflection resonated deeply with me, specifically the magic moments she continues to create; Riskya Duavania, an energetic and courageous director, alongside her warm and committed producer Riani Singgih, collaborating on an expedition of self-realization that requires their two big hearts; Ragini Nath & Chinmoy Sonowal, co-directors whose dedication and warmth were palpable, and it’s what unites them around a big film; and the talented and disciplined director Nupur Agrawal, who’s paired with her endearing, sharp-witted, and loyal editor Shivajee Biswanath, together embracing a vast scenery and narrative with dedication and determination.

In September, as we gathered on-site in Bali, I had the privilege of working with the rest of the storytelling lab, and it was nothing short of inspiring to witness projects develop within the hour.

A special nod to Gary Kam for a seamless partnership in mentoring. Our partnership in mentoring was not only inspiring but also an absolute joy.

Through my lens, I capture not just moments, but the essence of remarkable individuals who made this experience unforgettable.

photo by Jovana Semiz in Novi Sad – Serbia, during the Circle – Women Doc Accelerator 2022.

Working with filmmakers as they unearth their unique voices, craft their individual methods, and unveil their artistic interpretations of reality is truly a rewarding journey and an incredible privilege.

I am eager to continuing more collaboration with directors and producers, sharing experiences, and engaging in creative dialogues through through the remarkable support platforms that I am fortunate to be a part of every year:

Docs by the Sea
The Circle Woman Docs Accelertor
Ex Oriente Film Workshop
Berlinale Talent Doc Station