Curating with Pan-African Cinema Archives – A Traineeship Programme

About the Open Call

Flatpack Festival is partnering with the June Givanni Pan-African Cinema Archive (JGPACA) to offer an 8-week traineeship focused on Pan-African Film and Archive Curation. Participants will gain knowledge in Pan-African cinema, develop skills in working with archives, and learn how to curate film events. This programme is part of the JGPACA project 'Building Community Audiences for Pan-African Cinema in the Regions,' providing a unique chance to engage with film curation through a globally significant Black-led archive. The traineeship aims to enhance opportunities within the film and archive sector for individuals in Birmingham and the West Midlands, addressing underrepresentation of people from the global majority. Training sessions will primarily occur in-person in Birmingham, with a designated archive visit in London. Trainees must commit to attending at least 7 out of 8 weekly sessions between February and March 2026.

What is Offered

Trainees will receive a bursary of £784 (inclusive of VAT). The program includes 8 weeks of training, mentorship in Pan-African Film and Archive Curation, and opportunities to attend optional sessions and local cultural events.

Requirements

This opportunity is open to West Midlands-based early career curators from the global majority, who are 18 years of age or older. No prior work experience in film or archives is required; candidates need a curious mind and enthusiasm to learn. Applicants must be able to attend a minimum of 7 out of 8 training sessions scheduled between February and March 2026. Informal online interviews are part of the selection process.

How to Apply

Prospective trainees must complete two Google Forms: an Application form and an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, by 11:59 PM on Sunday, 4 January 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal online interview, scheduled for Wednesday, 14 January 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by Thursday, 15 January 2026.