We continue our journey through the DOCU/PRO platform, created for documentary filmmakers. The events will take place from 6 to 11 June during the 23rd Docudays UA at KINO42 in Kyiv, with part of the programme available online to holders of industry accreditation.
On 8 June, following the morning masterclass by Mikael Opstrup mentioned in the first part of the guide, Anna Berthollet and Radina Vladimirova of the Swiss–French sales and distribution agency Lightdox will present a case study of a successful promotional campaign. Using the example of Fiume o Morte! winning the European Film Academy Award for Best European Documentary in 2026, they will share step‑by‑step practical advice on digital marketing, working with the media, and the path to recognition at prestigious film awards.
Director Igor Bezinović receives the award for Fiume o Morte! Photo: Naja Wohlleben for Reuters
Later that evening, The Documentary Film Association of Ukraine (DFAU) brings together leading voices of the industry for a strategic conversation on the future of documentary filmmaking. Members will unveil the results of their study into filmmakers’ needs, transforming real‑world challenges into shared solutions and long‑term visions.
On 9 June, IDFA Bertha Fund’s Selin Murat joins Ukrainian filmmaker and creative producer Mariia Ponomarova to share insider tips on grant applications — the dos and don’ts — illustrating their advice with practical examples.
On 10 June, the Ukrainian–Danish Youth House will host a networking event organised by the platform and film production company SALT CINEMA. The gathering is open to filmmakers working on their first or second documentary who wish to present their projects and receive feedback in small groups from decision‑makers — experienced producers, directors, and representatives of international film festivals and cultural institutions. Among them: Natalia Libet (2Brave Productions), Eugene Rachkovsky (TABOR Production), Iryna Kyporenko (Ukrainian Institute), director Alisa Kovalenko, Aliona Holiakova (Public Broadcasting), Oleksandra Zakharchenko (Marché du Film — Festival de Cannes), and Rohan Berry Crickmar (Dublin International Film Festival).
DOCU/PRO platform event 2025. Photo: Serhiy Khandusenko
On 11 June, holders of industry accreditation will be able to join a hybrid event that begins with presentations on the German film funding system and the German Producers Alliance. Johannes Kagerer, a German media expert working at the intersection of politics, law, and the audiovisual industry, will outline reforms reshaping support for cinema and highlight fresh opportunities for international collaboration — with particular relevance for Ukrainian filmmakers engaged in documentary and co‑production projects.
After the presentation, join the interactive roundtable Collaboration with European Producers — Practical Co‑Production Strategies for Ukrainian Documentaries, focusing on the practical aspects of international cooperation. German producers, joined by the moderator, will discuss real co‑production cases and share their experiences. The session will conclude with an extended Q&A segment.
The final DOCU/PRO 2026 event will be of particular interest to emerging producers. Vanja Jambrović — acclaimed producer (Fiume o Morte!, Srbenka) and lecturer at the Academy of Dramatic Arts in Zagreb, as well as guest lecturer and mentor at international documentary workshops — will explain the key tools of financial management for film projects. In her lecture How to Produce a Doc and Stay Sane, Vanja will examine essential instruments for every producer, including the budget, financial plan, cash‑flow plan, and recoupment schedule, while also addressing issues of co‑production.
DOCU/PRO 2025 stand at the entrance to the events. Photo: Anna Soli
This year, DOCU/PRO visitors can also look forward to events dedicated to exploring the use of artificial intelligence in documentary filmmaking. Details will be announced soon.
In addition to access to events, DOCU/PRO industry accreditation holders are offered a unique opportunity to receive individual consultations from experienced experts in global documentary cinema. These consultations will be valuable for anyone seeking advice on project development, strategies for promotion on the international film market, and international co‑production.
Don’t miss the chance to apply for DOCU/PRO industry accreditation. Applications are open until 25 May.
Armed Forces members, combat veterans, and war veterans can receive a 50% discount on industry accreditation. To take advantage of this offer, please contact us at [email protected].
Main photo: Serhiy Khandusenko
The 23rd Docudays UA is held with the financial support of the European Union and the Embassy of Sweden in Ukraine. The opinions, conclusions, or recommendations do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the governments of these countries. Responsibility for the content of the publication lies exclusively with the authors and editors of the publication.
