Call for Scriptwriters and Producers for 2027 Short Film

• Paradigm Initiative (PIN) has launched a call for scriptwriters and production companies across six African countries to develop its 7th short film , a six-episode limited series focused on digital rights and inclusion.
• About the 2027 Short Film Series
• Paradigm Initiative has used short films as a strategic storytelling and advocacy tool to explore the human side of digital rights and inclusion.
• Its previous films have addressed issues including:
• Digital exclusion
• Online safety
• Privacy
• Freedom of expression
• Digital rights
• The everyday experiences of people navigating an increasingly digital world

For the seventh edition, PIN is envisioning a serialised narrative consisting of six connected episodes , with the same core cast appearing throughout the season.

The series will be structured like a single-season limited series, with each episode building on the previous one.

Job Summary

• Employer: paradigmhq
• Job Type: Contract
• Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
• Category: Creative Production
• Closing Date: 2026-10-12

Key Responsibilities

• The selected creative team will develop a story drawing from PIN's Londa reports . Applicants may use findings from any relevant report and may build on trends observed over the years to develop the strongest possible story.
• PIN is intentionally allowing flexibility in how the Londa report material is interpreted and transformed into a compelling narrative.
• The organisation is looking for a distinct and captivating story with its own creative narrative identity.
• The final output is envisioned as a unique and captivating six-episode series, with creativity at the centre of the production.
• PIN will review initial drafts to ensure coherence and consistency with the established guidelines for the final output.
• Coordinated delivery will take place ahead of the premiere at the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF) in Lagos, Nigeria.

Requirements

• Applications are invited from: Scriptwriters, Production companies
• Scriptwriters and production companies may also submit a joint application as a pre-formed creative team.
• Applicants may apply separately. Where strong scriptwriting and production proposals are submitted independently, PIN may match suitable applicants to form a creative partnership.
• The call is also open to upcoming short film producers , with a deliberately low barrier to entry intended to provide opportunities to a broad pool of storytelling talent.
• Creative partners should be able to demonstrate: Strong storytelling and originality, A creative approach to digital rights and inclusion issues, Experience developing compelling film or audiovisual content, Capacity to deliver a high-quality production, A track record of meeting agreed timelines, Understanding of African contexts and audiences, Ability to translate complex digital rights issues into accessible, human stories

How to Apply

Apply by email: rfp@paradigmhq.org