Aspiring filmmakers, actors, independent producers and film enthusiasts will have opportunities to strengthen their skills and explore new career pathways at the 2nd Annual 284 Excellence Film Festival, taking place from 29th October to 1st November 2026, in the British Virgin Islands — and every masterclass and workshop on the programme is now free to attend. Photo: BVITB&FC

Under the theme “Uniting Creative Voices, Celebrating Caribbean Stories,” the festival's educational programme will combine expert-led masterclasses, interactive discussions and specialised workshops designed to help creatives develop their craft, navigate the film industry and bring their projects to wider audiences. Photo: BVITB&FC

Under the theme “Uniting Creative Voices, Celebrating Caribbean Stories,” the festival's educational programme will combine expert-led masterclasses, interactive discussions and specialised workshops designed to help creatives develop their craft, navigate the film industry and bring their projects to wider audiences.

Festival Director Hodge said, “One of our greatest priorities through the 284 Excellence Film Festival is ensuring that our local creatives have access to the knowledge, resources and industry connections needed to advance their careers. We recognise that talent exists right here in the British Virgin Islands, and through these masterclasses and workshops.” 

“Our goal is to help bridge the gap between creative potential and real opportunities within the industry. Whether someone is just beginning their filmmaking journey or looking to take their career to the next level, we want them to leave with valuable insights, practical knowledge and a renewed sense of what is possible,” said Natalie Hodge, BVI Film Commissioner and Festival Director.

From small islands to global screens 

Friday, 30th October, will feature two free masterclasses at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC): From 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., the panel discussion “Made From Where You Are: Small Island, Big Screen” will be moderated by Nekita Turnbull, with Teresa Celeste, Ty Walker and CJ Faison exploring how filmmakers from small-island communities can develop authentic
stories, navigate the industry and reach international audiences without waiting for opportunities from Hollywood.

From 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., John Campbell and Valerie Meraz will facilitate “Film Unfiltered: The Greenlight Forum.” Moving beyond a traditional panel discussion, the interactive session will invite participants to engage directly with industry producers, ask questions and gain practical insight into funding, distribution, production and advancing their own projects.

Practical workshops for creative growth

On Saturday, 31st October, the festival will continue its professional development programme with three free specialised workshops at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC):

• Empowering Independent Producers: Fund | Distribute | Profit — Facilitated by Sakura Entertainment, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., this session will explore opportunities for independent filmmakers to finance, distribute and monetise their productions. 
• Lift Off: Drone Basics – Ready. Set. Fly — Led by Tabari Sturdivant, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., this workshop will introduce participants to the fundamentals of drone based filmmaking. 
• Acting for Screen — Led by Claudia Knight of Creative Arts BVI, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., this session will focus on strengthening performance techniques for screen acting.

Together, the sessions are designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and skills while encouraging professional development and collaboration within the regional film industry.

Free and open to all

Every session. Every seat. Free. In a bid to open the doors of the film industry to the whole community, all masterclasses and workshops at this year’s festival are now free to attend. From Friday’s panel discussion and Greenlight Forum to Saturday’s sessions on independent producing, drone filmmaking and acting for screen, there is no cost to take part. 

Whether you are a student exploring a career in film, a working creative ready for your next step, or simply curious about how stories make it from the page to the screen, this is your chance to learn directly from professionals who have taken their work to audiences around the world. Bring your questions, your ideas and your ambition — and arrive early to secure your seat.

Investing in the next generation of storytellers

The 284 Excellence Film Festival brings together international, regional and local filmmakers, industry professionals and audiences to celebrate the art of storytelling while strengthening opportunities for creative collaboration and industry development in the British Virgin Islands.

The BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission encourages students, aspiring filmmakers, independent producers, actors and established creatives to take advantage of the festival's educational offerings and connect with professionals who can help them advance their craft.

For the full programme, festival updates and ticketing information, visit 284excellencefilmfestival.com or email 284excellencefilmfestival@bvifilm.com.