Kathaharu Production is bringing two upcoming film masterclasses by Jane Mote and Shweta Venkat as part of the Women of the World (WOW) Festival 2024. Conducted at the Yala Maya Kendra during Film South Asia 2024, the masterclasses are scheduled for November 23 and 24 in Kathmandu. Kathmandu Metropolitan City and UNESCO also support the event as part of the Creative Cities Network initiative.

“As a city, we are motivated to support emerging filmmakers,” shared Sunita Dangol, deputy mayor of Kathmandu. She added, “It is time we create an inclusive environment where women filmmakers can bring out their voices to the world.”

Masterclasses, led by industry professionals, will focus on uplifting voices, bridging cultures, and empowering new narratives. They will offer hands-on insights and practical guidance.

England-based Jane Mote will conduct a Masterclass on finding funds for women documentary filmmakers. Mote will share her experience as a producer for multiple documentaries and provide specific avenues female filmmakers can apply to fund their projects.

“Nepal has so many efficient filmmakers, but some, especially women, can lack the confidence or market knowledge to get their stories out to the world,” Mote said, “I am excited to be able to support women by sharing information about funding and opportunities to help develop their films.”

India-based Shweta Venkat will be providing an in-depth look into the editing process by sharing her work process and the ‘script to screen’ case studies of the films she has worked on, such as ‘Unchai’, ‘Newton’, ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, ‘Supermen of Malegaon’ and many more. Venkat’s masterclass will also explore the portrayal of women characters through film edits.

The masterclass seats are limited, and the forms are open until November 10, 2024. Jane Mote’s masterclass is for women and women-identifying Nepali filmmakers, while Shweta Venkat’s is open to all Nepali filmmakers. Kathaharu also offers scholarships for selected Nepali filmmakers outside the Kathmandu Valley.

“It is a great moment to see a festival like WOW creating a much-needed space for women and films,” said Smriti Basnet, executive director of Kathaharu.