ISFI Launches Groundbreaking FILM EXČELERATOR SÁPMI Program
Published: 24.06.2025
ISFI launches FILM EXČELERATOR SÁPMI :
A Historic Talent Program for Sámi Film
The International Sámi Film Institute (ISFI), in collaboration with Talent Norway, is proud to launch the groundbreaking talent development program FILM EXČELERATOR SÁPMI – a cross-disciplinary program designed to strengthen and develop emerging voices in Sámi film and TV production.
With support from Talent Norway and SpareBank 1 Nord-Norge Samfunnsløftet, along with ISFI’s resources and extensive international networks, the program will provide up to 15 participants with access to tailored skills development, international industry exposure, and practical experience on both Sámi and global productions.
This program, the most comprehensive of its kind ever established in Sápmi, consolidates previous initiatives and offers structured training, internships, and mentorships for film professionals and creators across all disciplines – from scriptwriting and directing to sound, editing, costume, animation, and VFX.
– We are in the midst of a historic development for Sámi film. This initiative creates space for growth across the entire industry – not only for directors and screenwriters, but for everyone contributing to bringing Sámi stories to an international audience, says Anne Lajla Utsi, Director of ISFI.
– Sámi film has shown tremendous potential in recent years. Now we have a robust model to ensure that this potential is nurtured and developed sustainably. We are proud to support an initiative that both preserves and renews the Sámi storytelling tradition, says Silje Riise Næss, Managing Director of Talent Norway.
Alice Marie Jektevik has been appointed as coordinator for the FILM EXČELERATOR program at ISFI.
– We will begin with a joint kickoff in Guovdageaidnu, where participants will get to know ISFI and the Sámi film industry. Each participant will then receive a personalized development and training plan, and gain hands-on experience by working as trainees on Sámi and international productions, Says Jektevik.
Participants will also have opportunities to travel internationally.
– We will bring participants to film festivals in Sápmi and abroad, where they can engage with the global film industry and build valuable networks. I encourage anyone who finds this exciting to apply, says Jektevik.
The program was announced on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, and the application deadline is set for August 15. The program will run from 2025 to 2026.
Photo: The main image features Talent Coordinator Alice Marie Jektevik alongside the first two selected talents, Olena Hætta and Takakehto Charles, joined by Monica Borg Fure, Head of Impact and Knowledge at Talent Norway. The group is currently attending the Talent Norway Networking and Professional Development Gathering in Harstad, Norway.