Ouaga Stories Lab

The Ouaga Stories Lab is the first phase of the program. Taking place in Ouagadougou from October 24 to 31, 2026, it is an intensive workshop bringing together eight (08) projects from across the African continent, with a particular focus on geographic and cultural diversity and gender parity.

The Lab combines training, mentoring, and networking through the following components:

OS Screenwriters

This main programme, dedicated to screenwriting, combines group workshops, dramaturgical analysis, rewriting sessions, and individualized support to strengthen the narrative structure, characters, and artistic coherence of projects. It combines sessions for sharing experiences, workshops focused on writing techniques, and mentorship.

OS Mentoring

This artistic and professional mentorship program is led by renowned mentors, ensuring critical and personalized guidance for each project. Both preliminary and ongoing, it provides tailored support for each participant to strengthen the artistic coherence and solidity of their project. Throughout the program, participants benefit from critical and constructive guidance that helps deepen their creative approach and maximize their potential for funding and co-production.

OS Pitch

Mastering the art of pitching is now an essential skill for any filmmaker seeking to position their project on the international stage. This workshop is designed to help project leaders strengthen their professional presentation skills. It aims to equip participants with the tools and techniques needed to effectively communicate the vision, scope, and potential of their film, in order to win over producers, residency program directors, and financial partners.

OS Networking

A premier venue for networking with professionals from the African and international film and audiovisual industries, this space fosters the creation of lasting networks and the development of concrete collaborations.

OS Production

This session focuses on contemporary issues in African and international film and audiovisual production. Through masterclasses and case studies, it explores business models, international co-production but also the development of artistic and
financial proposals, as well as the expectations of funds, broadcasters, and streaming platforms. It helps project developers better understand the transition from screenplay to production.

At the end of the Lab, the program partners will award several prizes and support opportunities, including residencies, consulting services, and financial grants. Four projects will be selected to participate in the Ouaga Stories Residency, where they will continue to develop their projects.