iACADEMY, Netflix join forces

Filipino filmmakers with roots in the regions now stand a better chance of having their creations brought to life through iAcademy’s the “Indiegenius” program of iAcademy that won the support of streaming giant Netflix.

iAcademy’s Indiegenius project lab encourages emerging and talented Filipino filmmakers with regional backgrounds or regional roots to submit their film concepts and compete to be among 10 finalists who will go through a series of workshops. Two winners will be awarded a production and scholarship grant.

“We’re always in pursuit of opportunities where we can provide space that invites diversity and inspires inclusivity. We’re humbled that Netflix shares and believes in this same value that iAcademy holds and we are very grateful for their generosity,” says iAcademy COO Raquel Perez.

It is the first program of its kind in the Philippines to get support from Netflix in the form of mentorship and a production grant.

“By supporting the next generation of filmmakers in the Philippines through iAcademy’s Indiegenius program, we hope to increase representation in front of and behind the camera and support authentic stories that showcase the talent and skill of young filmmakers from across the Philippines,” said Amy Sawitta Lefevre, Netflix’s head of external affairs for Asia-Pacific.