Traineeship

ISFI offers a variety of skill development programs that strengthen Sámi storytelling. Through our trainee programs, participants gain hands-on experience and are inspired to become the next generation of Sámi film creators — in every role and at every stage of production.

Career in Sámi Film

workshops

One of the main aims of the International Sami Film Institute is to build capacity in the Sámi film industry. We offer various workshops in different fields in film. You can contact us if there are specific courses you would like us to organize.

mentors

The International Sámi Film Institute has a network of experienced mentors who support filmmakers in different areas of film production and storytelling. Since the establishment of ISFI, we have seen the great value of mentorship in developing projects and strengthening creative visions. Our mentors have worked with filmmakers in various courses and labs organized by ISFI. If you need mentorship or advice within your project, please contact us. Here are some of our mentors in our workshops and labs now.

Profession: Director, mentor in Film Exčelerator Sápmi program (2025)

Nils Gaup is a film director and his feature film "Pathfinder" was nominated for an Oscar Award in 1987. He has directed several feature films and tv series as f.ex The Kautokeino Rebellion (2008). Nils has been mentoring the Sámi film industry since the establishment of ISFI.

Profession: Film Director/writer, mentor in Sámi Storyžat Lab (2025)

Amanda Kernell was born in 1986 in Umeå, Sweden. She is a trained Director of The National Film School of Denmark and has since 2006 made several award-winning short films. SAMI BLOOD was her feature film debut. It premiered at the Venice Film Festival 2016 and has since then won over 30 awards. CHARTER (2020) is Amanda’s second feature film.

Profession: Director, Scriptwriter, mentor in Sámi Storyžat Lab

Suvi West is a multiple award winning Sámi film director and scriptwriter. In 2023 the Association of Finnish Film Directors chose West as a Director of the Year. In the same year she was granted the Sámi film festival Skábmagovat lifetime achievement award. West is Master of Arts graduated from Helsinki Film School.

Profession: Director, screenwriter, and photographer, mentor in Sámi Storyžat Lab

Ann Holmgren Aurebekk is a Sámi director, screenwriter, and photographer exploring Sámi culture and existential themes through documentaries, short films, and 360° formats. Her film Ovias was part of ÁRRAN 360° at La Biennale di Venezia. She is now developing her debut feature Porslin.