15 January, 2025


Designed to be more than just a filmmaking workshop, Future is Here is a transformative journey where participants explore storytelling techniques, visual artistry, and critical thinking, all while fostering collaboration and self-expression. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with participants actively involved in every stage of the filmmaking process—from conceptualizing ideas to final edits. By pairing emerging filmmakers with seasoned mentors and alumni, the program creates a unique space for skill-building, confidence development, and meaningful connections.  

This year’s edition brought together 10 young aspiring filmmakers from diverse backgrounds for an intensive seven-day camp that combined lectures, workshops, and real-world filmmaking experience. Guided by some of Kosovo’s most accomplished filmmakers and industry experts, the participants dived keep into the art of creative documentary filmmaking, crafting personal stories that resonate on both local and universal levels.    

Erlisa Buzhala, a high school student from Prishtina, shared her transformative experience:  

"It was a space where creativity, vulnerability, and passion collided. Sharing my story about living with a disability felt deeply personal, but the unwavering support I  received turned it into a meaningful memory. Our mentors didn’t just listen— they believed in our ideas and  helped us bring them to life."    

The intimate environment allowed these young storytellers to share their truths, connect deeply with peers, and develop the skills needed to bring their visions to the screen.  

From Alumni to Mentors  

Led by filmmakers Dea Gjinovci, Leart Rama, and producer Eroll Bilibani, the program seamlessly combines technical training and mentorship with emotional and social growth.    

Leart Rama, an alumnus of the 2015 Future is Here, reflects on its unique impact:  

"This isn’t just a school; it’s a permanent home for creative growth, innovation, and meaningful connections. It’s a treasure for anyone starting  their journey into storytelling, cinematography, and exploring their creative potential.  As a mentor, I now see the remarkable evolution in how younger generations approach art, life, and the power of visual narratives."  

The program also featured workshops and masterclasses led by Kosovar filmmakers Norika Sefa, Ilir Hasanaj, Samir Karahoda, and others, offering insights into cinematography, editing, and storytelling. Norika Sefa emphasized the program's importance for Kosovo’s cinematic future:  

"These lectures provide an excellent foundation for young filmmakers, helping them articulate their experiences and encouraging them to present the world around them through the medium of film. This is essential for the future of our cinematography, as such platforms foster diversity in storytelling and promote more authentic content."  

One unique feature of Future is Here is its emphasis on alumni mentorship. Flutura Balaj, a 2018 alumna, and Hana Ahmeti, a 2020/2021 participant, now guide newcomers through the challenging yet rewarding process of editing.  

"This journey—from student to mentor—has been life-changing," said Flutura. "Students are given freedom to explore and discover their artistic voice, sparking critical thinking and deep connections to the themes they choose to narrate."  

Hana added: "It’s incredible to witness young people’s enthusiasm for sharing their unique perspectives. As a mentor, I find myself constantly inspired by their ideas."  

Each year, Future is Here welcomes returning students who are eager to build on their previous experience, adding a unique layer of continuity and growth to the program. Among them is Suara Ismajli, who co-directed Peroni 7 with Jonila Muriqi in 2024.

Reflecting on her second year, Suara shared:    

“This generation of ‘Future is Here’ felt special in its own way. Last year was about learning the ropes, but this year I felt more confident and involved. The camp’s creative energy, from brainstorming to seeing rough cuts, was exciting and meaningful. It made me realize how much I’ve grown and how powerful it is to collaborate and tell stories that matter to us.”    

For Suara, the experience transcended filmmaking, fostering deep connections with likeminded peers and creating moments that were both educational and profoundly inspiring.  

The first camp laid the groundwork for seven documentaries that will be completed in February 2025 during a second session. These films will premiere at the 24th edition of DokuFest in August, showcasing the students’ dedication and creative growth.  

Participants like Erenik Dreshaj describe the process as transformative:  

"The lectures on sound design and camera work opened my eyes to the artistry behind filmmaking. Even with professional guidance, we had full independence in crafting our documentaries."  

To date, Future is Here has trained 111 students and produced 80 films, solidifying its reputation as Kosovo’s leading platform for nurturing young and emerging filmmakers and fostering a vibrant creative community. The program is a cornerstone of DokuFest’s commitment to education, cultural development, and social transformation. As it continues to empower young voices, it underscores the vital role storytelling plays in bridging social divides, sparking dialogue, and inspiring creative expression across generations.  

At just 15 years old, Djellza Musliu, the youngest participant in this year’s Future is Here program, brought a fresh and inspiring perspective to the camp.    

Reflecting on her experience, Djellza shared:    

“During this program, we learned so many important things, from mastering camera usage and sound design techniques to understanding the  ethical principles of documentary filmmaking.  The advanced training sessions, led by incredibly skilled and experienced professionals, were both challenging and rewarding.”  

What stood out most to Djellza was the trainers' supportive and approachable teaching style, which made even the most complex concepts accessible and engaging. “Watching documentary films helped us find inspiration and shape our own projects. But it was the trainers' encouragement and expertise that truly made the difference,” she said. Djellza’s enthusiasm and growth are a testament to the program’s success in cultivating a passion for storytelling in young participants, no matter their age or prior experience.  

With every film, Future is Here reaffirms its mission: to give Kosovo’s youth the tools, confidence, and platform to narrate their own stories—and, in doing so, to shape the evolving narrative of their young and dynamic nation.  

Looking Ahead  

The enduring success of Future is Here highlights the transformative power of documentary filmmaking. As Kosovo’s cultural landscape evolves, programs like this ensure its future is not only secure but bursting with creativity and authenticity. For young filmmakers, the journey begins here—and for audiences, the stories they tell will resonate for years to come.  

All films produced by Future is Here are available on DokuFest's Teachers Digital Library, an online platform managed by the DokuLab educational department. This platform features films and didactic materials designed to support the use of film in classrooms, aligned with the Curricular Framework of the Republic of Kosovo. Currently, it is accessible to over 400 teachers across Kosovo. Future is Here is part of the Schools & Documentaries project, supported by the National Endowment for Democracy.  

DokuLab Teachers Digital Library can be accessed here: https://dokufest-lab.com/en/