A Four-Day Masterclass to Break Stereotypes and Shape the Future
From September 26 to 29, 2024, Tirana turned into a creative laboratory where history, camera, and gender sensitivity came together to shape a new generation of audiovisual creators. The intensive four-day Masterclass, organized by Albania Women in Audiovisual (AWA) in partnership with Scidev and with the financial support of the European Union, offered a transformative experience for the 70 participants of the project “Breaking the Moulds, Shaping the Future.”
From Ideas to Screen: A Creative Process
Day 1: The Power of Words
The journey began by delving into the art of writing gender-sensitive scripts. Under the guidance of Doruntina Basha, an experienced playwright and screenwriter, participants learned how to tell stories that challenge stereotypes and reflect diverse gender realities. Storytelling became the main tool to give voice to perspectives that are often left unheard.
Day 2: From Scene to Script
With ideas taking root, the second day focused on the technical and creative dimensions of pre-production. Participants were divided into groups and began to bring their visions to life, transforming abstract concepts into the clear framework of an audiovisual product. Experts Timo Heinänen, photographer and cinematographer with extensive teaching experience, and Giovanni Robbiano, producer, screenwriter, and director, guided the groups through each stage of the process.
Day 3: The Magic of Filming
Wednesday was dedicated to active creation – filming began, and ideas came to life in front of the cameras. Participants experienced firsthand both the challenges and the joy of audiovisual production, working with light, sound, framing, and direction. Post-production also started to take shape as the first materials were assembled and edited.
Day 4: The Premiere
The culmination of the Masterclass came with the completion and screening of nine audiovisual projects. Each work showcased a unique perspective, demonstrating the power of gender-conscious storytelling and the diversity of creative voices.
Next Step: Mini Sub-Grants
The story doesn’t end here. Participants of the Masterclass now have the opportunity to apply for Mini Sub-Grants — a unique chance to continue their creative journey. These grants are designed to foster creativity and encourage the development of gender-sensitive storytelling in media, providing artists with the tools to bring their projects to life.
Why is this Masterclass important?
In an industry where women’s voices and gender perspectives still struggle for space, initiatives like “Breaking the Moulds, Shaping the Future” are more than just trainings — they are movements. They shape professionals who not only know how to use the camera but also understand its power to transform narratives and build a more inclusive industry.
Through this collaboration between AWA, Scidev, and the European Union, a network of creators is emerging — one that brings freshness, authenticity, and equality to the Albanian audiovisual landscape.