When I joined the Sisi Film Collective training program, I had no formal background in
filmmaking— just a deep passion for storytelling and a desire to learn.
From a young age, I have always been fascinated by films— the way they entertain, evoke emotions, tell stories, and allow us to experience different worlds, both real and fictional.
However, my educational background and career path were unrelated to filmmaking, and the two seemed unlikely to intersect. Film felt like something beyond my reach. But when I saw the flyer for this training program, my hope of becoming a filmmaker was reignited. I saw an opportunity to finally break into the field, learn from professionals, develop my skills, and forge connections with fellow filmmakers— all while bringing my stories to life.
The supportive and immersive environment immediately reassured me that this was where I belonged. The program is a blend of hands-on training, mentorship, and collaboration, ensuring maximum value for the learners. It is structured to provide practical skills alongside the relevant conceptual and theoretical knowledge, helping us gain a deeper understanding of why certain techniques and choices are made in filmmaking. The training covers multiple aspects of filmmaking.
So far, we have learned scriptwriting, directing, sound recording and editing, cinematography, and film editing. Typically, we are first introduced to the conceptual and theoretical foundations, then shown great films that exemplify these concepts in action. Our instructors demonstrate how to achieve these techniques using filmmaking tools such as cameras, sound equipment, and editing software. We then apply what we’ve learned through exercises— writing scripts, recording and editing audio, filming, and even creating complete short films. These exercises are collaborative, with participants taking on different roles to execute a task
Our work is then screened in front of everyone—both tutors and fellow learners—where we receive constructive feedback. The chemistry between the learners and tutors is incredible, making the entire process feel natural and engaging. The best part is that we don’t just learn about filmmaking; we actively create films, experiment with equipment, and collaborate on each other’s projects.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this training is the people I’ve met. The experienced filmmakers tutoring and guiding us push us to achieve more, inspiring us with their creativity and professionalism. The connections I’m building with industry veterans and fellow aspiring filmmakers are just as valuable as the lessons themselves. We challenge each other to improve, exchange ideas, and support one another in our filmmaking journeys.
Before this program, filmmaking was just an interest. Now, it’s something I see myself pursuing seriously. I’ve gained not only practical skills but also confidence in my ability to tell stories through film. This training has opened my eyes to new possibilities, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.
Written By Ocii Hillary