El Gouna Film Festival opens call for CineGouna Emerge programmes
El Gouna Film Festival (GFF) has announced the open call for its CineGouna Emerge programmes for the festival's eighth edition, supported by Impact Partner Sawiris Foundation for Social Development (SFSD) and the European Union in Egypt. The initiative aims to empower young and emerging talents in the film industry, reaffirming GFF's commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers and creatives from Egypt, the Arab world and Africa.
Building on the success of the past two editions, CineGouna Emerge has offered hundreds of participants a gateway to both regional and international film industries, fostering connections within a creative community. Many alumni have credited the programme as a turning point in their careers, with the festival continuing to expand its support for aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals.
This year's edition offers several tracks tailored to different creative disciplines. The flagship CineGouna Emerge Programme welcomes young filmmakers and film professionals — from directors and screenwriters to cinematographers and sound designers — to engage with the festival through screenings, workshops, masterclasses, panels and networking events. The SeeMe Track focuses on emerging actors, preparing them for red carpet appearances, media engagement and introductions to industry decision-makers. The Perspectives Track is designed for photographers, journalists, film critics and content creators, enabling them to cover the festival in collaboration with its Press & Publications team. For the first time, the festival introduces Emerge: Take Two, a track that brings back alumni as peer mentors to guide new participants.
Participation is open to applicants aged 18–35 who are students or graduates of film and media programmes, have worked on at least one publicly screened film or series, or are developing a cinema-related project. Selected participants will receive festival accreditation with access to screenings, the CineGouna Forum, and market activities, alongside exclusive networking opportunities. Domestic travel, accommodation, and meal vouchers will also be provided, ensuring participants can fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Amr Mansi, Executive Director of El Gouna Film Festival, said: 'CineGouna Emerge has grown into the closest initiative to our heart, and one of the Festival's most impactful initiatives. By expanding the program into a multi-track umbrella, we are ensuring that every young talent — from filmmakers to actors, from critics to content creators — finds a place to learn, grow, and shine at GFF.'
Marianne Khoury, Artistic Director of El Gouna Film Festival, added: 'Over the past two editions, we've seen firsthand the transformative impact of CineGouna Emerge. Many of our alumni now work actively in the film industry, and their feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. This year's expansion is about giving back — alumni will mentor new participants, and together, we will continue to build a strong and supportive creative network.'
Hayat Aljowaily, Head of CineGouna Emerge, noted: 'Our commitment has always been to nurture the next generation of storytellers from Egypt, the Arab world and Africa. The introduction of new tracks such as Take Two is a testament to our belief in continuity, mentorship, and the power of community in the film industry.'
Applications for all CineGouna Emerge 2025 tracks are now open on the official El Gouna Film Festival website. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply before August 17, 2025, and join a growing community of filmmakers and creatives shaping the future of cinema in the region.
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