Paradigm Initiative seeks a creative script and a creative short film that tells an impactful story on the state of digital rights and inclusion in Africa. The script must capture key thematic areas, instances and elements highlighted in the report in a way that can be viewed and understood by diverse members of the society. The language used must be simple, inclusive, and comprehensible to reach a wide audience. The organisation also seeks experienced movie producers to take these scripts from page to screen.

Deliverables

 Script Writer

Develop a captivating synopsis and script based on the Londa 2023 Report that tells a creative and impactful story.

The individual or organisation that develops the winning script will work with the production company to produce a short film based on the script.

The output should be in English with translation into French, English, and Swahili. 

The individual/vendor must be open to meeting with the PIN team regularly for any clarifications and updates.

 Tasks

Story synopsis and script

 Develop a detailed outline of the proposed script, including a plot summary, main characters, and key scenes.

• Share writing samples and examples of previous work (scripts, short stories)
• Develop and share resume/CV highlighting relevant experience and qualifications
• Develop and share a budget incorporating a detailed cost for script development
• Timelines: Map out milestones for script development and completion
• Work with the movie production company in bringing the story to fruition via a short film based on the Londa 2023 Report.

Film Production Company

The production company should have modern equipment and qualified personnel capable of delivering excellent output with guidance from PIN’s communications team.

The production company must be open to meeting with the PIN team regularly for any clarifications and updates.

 Tasks

• Work with the Script Writer to produce the short film
• Plan, develop and produce the audiovisual product in English with translation into French, English, and Swahili by 13th December, 2024
• Finalise the original production according to feedback provided by Paradigm Initiative
• Use the latest high-quality equipment/software in the project
• The production company will produce all materials, soundtracks and music used from scratch.

Qualifications, Background, and Experience

Script Writer

The ideal script writer must be creative with the ability to develop a captivating story and script and have a passion for short films.

Educational Background

Degree in Film Studies, Creative Writing or English with a solid foundation in storytelling, narrative structure and technical aspects of screenwriting.

Skills

• Strong Writing Skills with proficiency in crafting characters and developing engaging plots.

• Understanding of Film Language with knowledge of how scrips translate to the screen, including visual storytelling and scene structure

• Creativity and originality with the ability to create unique and original stories that captivate audiences.

 Experience

• Experience working with directors, producers, and other creative team members, indicating they can handle feedback and work within a team.

 Production Company

• The company must have high-level technical/professional expertise, and creativity across all production roles.

• Submit samples of previous productions directly produced by the applicant.
• Demonstrate competency and creativity in audiovisual productions
• Evidence of recognition and awards from reputable film festivals and competitions would be ideal
  • Financial stability and effective budget management
  • Experience in film distribution and marketing would be ideal.
  • Provide three references who can provide insight into the organisation’s work ethic, reliability and ability to meet deadlines without relying on reminders.

When it comes to translation, the supported French accents include French, Swiss, and African (Togo, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, Congo, Benin, Chad, Cameroon, Gabon, Central Africa Republic, Niger, Mali, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria).

Submission

The proposals should provide the following information:

Script Writer

• Cover Letter: The Cover Letter should highlight a brief introduction of the Script Writer and their experience.
• Script Proposal: A detailed outline of the proposed script, including plot summary, main characters, and key scenes.
• Writing Samples: Examples of previous work (scripts, short stories)
• Resume/CV: This should highlight relevant experience and qualifications
• Budget: Detailed cost for script development
• Timelines: Milestones for script development and completion
• References and Recommendations: The candidate should also share three references from industry professionals or previous collaborators who can provide insight into the writer’s work ethic, teamwork, reliability and ability to meet deadlines without relying on reminders.

 Submit proposal 

Production Company

• Technical Proposal: Outline and methodology for undertaking the production as well as detailed work plan showing the assignment’s important activities and milestones.
• Financial Proposal: Include a detailed quotation for the production showing all necessary costs to be incurred.
• Showcase evidence of having capacity to syndicate, distribute and amplify the short film
• The proposal must also include the contact details of three references who can provide insight into the organisation’s work ethic, reliability and ability to meet deadlines without relying on reminders. Please submit the proposal with the works portfolio as required and mentioned under the qualifications section above. 
• The company must have high-level technical/professional expertise, and creativity across all production roles.

• Submit samples of previous productions directly produced by the applicant.
• Demonstrate competency and creativity in audiovisual productions.
• Evidence of recognition and awards from reputable film festivals and competitions would be ideal.
• Financial stability and effective budget management.
• Experience in film distribution and marketing would be ideal.

Submit proposal

The other short films the organisation has released are Training, Focus and Finding Diana.

Submissions end on September 15, 2024 at midnight (WAT).

For questions or inquiries, contact media@paradigmhq.org