Realness Institute has opened applications for the fifth AuthenticA Series Lab, a six-month development programme for African screenwriters. The official call, dated July 4, 2026, says four writers will be selected to develop original episodic projects in any genre.
Programme schedule
The programme is scheduled to run from September 17, 2026 to March 27, 2027. It begins with an in-person residency in Ethiopia from September 17 to 24, continues through weekly online sessions, and later moves to a residency in Switzerland from January 19 to March 19, 2027. The final residency is scheduled for Series Mania in Lille, France, from March 20 to 27.
What selected writers produce
Each participant is expected to complete a pitch deck, a pilot script and a series bible to international standards. Realness Institute says writers retain the rights to the material they develop through the lab.
Each of the four participants will receive a monthly stipend of EUR 1,250 for the programme. Travel and accommodation for the Ethiopia, Switzerland and Series Mania residencies are covered. Selected writers remain responsible for their visas and travel insurance.
Eligibility
The official call is open to African nationals aged 18 or older who have experience in film or television. The proposed series must be set in Africa and may be produced in English or a local language. Applications and programme delivery are in English. A producer or production-company attachment is not required, but applicants must be able to commit to the online work and all three in-person residencies.
Realness Institute runs the programme with The StoryBoard Collective, with support from the Canada Media Fund and Series Mania Forum.
Source check
Verified July 14, 2026 from the official Realness Institute call dated July 4 and a provider release published July 10. The official call displayed an active application link but did not state a closing date at verification, so applicants should confirm timing directly on the application route.