The Alma Film Festival Supports the Next Generation of Global Storytellers - Announces Its Inaugural Cohort of Fellows Through The Dandelion Institute's Film & Television Fellowship

A production still from the Honduran film Esperanza de Honor featuring actor Joe Ramos (center), who alongside
Carla Calderon-Hedman directed the film. Joe also has the distinction of being the first Black director from Honduras.

A Global Coalition of Creatives from Fiji, Jamaica, Honduras,

Lesotho, South Africa and The Solomon Islands

------------------------------------------

[Atlanta, USA] – The Dandelion Institute, in partnership with the Alma Global Community Development Corporation, proudly announces the launch of its Film & Television Fellowship, a transformative program designed to cultivate visionary filmmakers from the Global South and other underrepresented markets worldwide.

With a commitment to artistic innovation, building sustainable careers, and cultural exchange, the fellowship offers a cutting-edge, four-phase experience that integrates creative development, business acumen, and the latest technology in storytelling.

Each year, 6 - 10 selected teams will receive intensive mentorship, hands-on production training, and exclusive access to top-tier industry leaders and global networking opportunities. With an emphasis on unconventional storytelling and bold cinematic perspectives, the program ensures that emerging filmmakers are market-ready and equipped to make lasting contributions to the entertainment landscape.

The inaugural cohort of fellows includes dynamic filmmakers, writers, and media creators from Honduras, South Africa, Jamaica, Lesotho, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands. Their projects span genres and media, from narrative films and documentaries to animation and experimental cinema, reflecting the program’s dedication to bold, globally resonant storytelling.

With great support from Nigel Miguel and his team at Belize Global Media (Belize City, Belize) and Nosipho Maketo van den Bragt and her team at the Chocolate Tribe (Johannesburg, South Africa), the fellowship will culminate in a unique showcase at the Alma Film Festival, which is set to debut in Spring 2026 in Las Terrenas, Samaná Province, Dominican Republic. The festival will serve as a platform for these visionary creators to present their work to industry stakeholders, potential collaborators, and most of all audiences eager for fresh perspectives.

The Film & Television Fellowship is a cornerstone of The Dandelion Institute’s collaboration with the Alma Film Festival, further solidifying the festival’s role as an incubator for groundbreaking content from the Global South.

Both initiatives are integral to the larger cultural ecosystem of Soule Reserve’s flagship venture, the Alma de Samaná Golf Resort and Residences.

"In everything we do, we aim to spark conversations that cultivate meaningful connections and strengthen our sense of community. From this shared foundation, we hope to inspire greater collaboration, leading to cultural diplomacy and collective growth."

~ Anthony R Page, MBA

------------------------------------------

Introducing Our Inaugural Group of Fellows

Athi Petela is a dynamic South African filmmaker, screenwriter, and children's book author whose work is reshaping the landscape of African storytelling. Hailing from Tabase in the Eastern Cape, Petela's journey into storytelling was ignited in her childhood, inspired by her mother's encouragement to document daily events and by the rich narratives of Bible stories read to her.

Initially pursuing a logistics qualification at the University of Johannesburg, Petela's passion for storytelling led her to transition into the film industry. She began her career at Stage Five Films in Cape Town and later earned a bursary to study film and television production at the Big Fish School of Digital Filmmaking.

Petela's directorial debut, the short film Trapped (2021), garnered critical acclaim for its exploration of transformation and inclusivity. The film premiered on SABC1 and was featured in various film festivals, including the African Film Festival in New York .

Building on her success, Petela co-directed the BET Africa drama series Queendom (2024), a culturally rich narrative featuring a star-studded cast. The series delves into themes of heritage, identity, and power dynamics within a fictional South African kingdom.

Beyond fiction, Petela has directed impactful public service announcements addressing critical issues such as gender-based violence, road safety, HIV/AIDS, and human trafficking of disabled individuals. Notably, she collaborated with the United Nations Population Fund on a series of PSAs aimed at raising awareness on these topics .

In addition to her work in film and television, Petela is a published children's book author. Her book, Unako and the Blue Couch, reflects her commitment to crafting stories that resonate with young audiences .

Athi Petela (Center) on the set of the South African hit series Lockdown
(Season 4), which aired on Mzansi Magic.
Pictured with: Mandla N (center) and Gaopiek_dp (left)

Petela's dedication to authentic storytelling and representation has sparked important conversations within the industry. In 2021, she addressed feedback regarding casting choices in Trapped, emphasizing her commitment to selecting actors who best embody the characters, while also highlighting the importance of representation.

As a storyteller, Petela continues to push boundaries, creating narratives that challenge societal norms and amplify marginalized voices. Her multifaceted career reflects a deep-seated passion for storytelling and a commitment to fostering inclusivity in the arts.

For more insights into Athi Petela's work and creative journey, you can connect with her on Instagram

Athi Petela on Instagram

Georgianna Lepping is a multifaceted creative force from the Solomon Islands, whose work spans filmmaking, journalism, advocacy, and athletics. As a filmmaker, she co-founded Sparklens Freelance Company with her twin sister, Regina, in 2013, focusing on storytelling that amplifies indigenous voices and addresses pressing social issues. Her documentary short Sky Aelans (2021) premiered at the Mountainfilm Festival, showcasing her commitment to narratives that resonate with her community.

Beyond filmmaking, Georgianna serves as a Communication & Advocacy Officer at Plan International Solomon Islands, where she champions gender equality, child rights, and climate justice. She cofounded the Native Lens Film Festival, the country's first indigenous-led film festival, providing a platform for local storytellers to share their perspectives.

An accomplished archer, Georgianna represented the Solomon Islands at the 2023 Pacific Games and holds a world ranking in compound archery. Her diverse pursuits reflect a deep commitment to cultural preservation, social advocacy, and empowering her community through various forms of expression.

Amie Batalibasi (center), Regina (left) and Georgianna meeting up with fellow
young aspiring filmmakers to discuss filmmaking in the Solomon Islands.

For more insights into Georgianna Lepping's work and creative journey, you can connect with her on Instagram

Georgianna Lepping on Instagram

Joe Ramos is a rising Honduran filmmaker and actor whose work is gaining recognition for its raw storytelling and grassroots production approach. Born in San Pedro Sula and raised in Belize City, Ramos returned to Honduras to pursue his passion for cinema, focusing on narratives that explore psychological tension, family dynamics, and social realities.

Joe Ramos (back row), pictured with the cast of Suplicio

Ramos made his directorial debut with Suplicio (2024), an 18-minute psychological thriller that delves into themes of familial pressure and identity. The film originated from a free acting workshop he conducted in El Progreso, Honduras, where he collaborated with local non-professional actors. Ramos took on multiple roles in the production, including writer, casting director, cinematographer, and editor, showcasing his multifaceted talent in filmmaking.

Prior to Suplicio, Ramos co-directed and starred in Esperanza de Honor (2022), a feature-length crime drama set in San Pedro Sula. Produced on a modest budget of $350, the film was lauded for its authentic portrayal of urban violence and resilience. Esperanza de Honor was nominated for Best Feature Film at the Love & Hope International Film Festival in Barcelona, highlighting Ramos's ability to create impactful cinema with limited resources.

Joe also has the distinction of being the 1st Black Filmmaker in Honduras.

Joe and his team are preparing for his upcoming, highly
anticipated feature film Angels with Broken Wings (this is the working title).

Artistic Vision

Ramos is committed to developing a distinct cinematic voice that reflects the complexities of Honduran society. His work often involves community engagement, as seen in his approach to casting and storytelling, aiming to bring authentic experiences to the screen. Ramos's dedication to his craft is evident in his hands-on involvement in all aspects of film production, striving to elevate the profile of Honduran cinema on the international stage.

For more insights into Joe Ramos' work and creative journey, you can connect with him on Instagram

Joe Ramos on Instagram

Khotso “Jaden” Maphathe is a Lesotho-based filmmaker, photographer, and creative director whose work is redefining visual storytelling in the Mountain Kingdom. As the founder of Space Agency Africa and Litema Studios, Maphathe blends traditional Basotho aesthetics with contemporary design, crafting narratives that resonate both locally and globally. His journey is a remarkable testament to the power of self-motivation and an unyielding drive to succeed.

Khotso (behind the camera) and his team at Space Agency Africa
working on a Vodacom TVC project.

Born and raised in Lesotho, Khotso discovered his passion for visual storytelling early in life. He was fascinated by the way images and films could evoke emotions, convey complex ideas, and preserve moments in time. This fascination turned into a calling, and by the time he finished high school, Khotso knew he wanted to pursue a career in the creative arts. Eluding traditional education pathways, he dove straight into the business world, teaching himself the technical and artistic skills he needed to excel in the competitive world of film and photography.

Over the years, Khotso’s work has taken him far beyond the borders of his home country. He has collaborated with globally renowned organizations such as the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation, SAfAIDS, the World Food Programme (WFP), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank, Vodacom Lesotho, and LNIG Hollard. These partnerships have not only solidified his reputation as a talented and reliable creative professional but have also allowed him to tell stories that resonate across cultures and contexts. Whether capturing the vibrancy of South Africa, the natural beauty of Sweden, or the resilience of communities in Mozambique, Khotso’s work is imbued with a deep sense of purpose and authenticity.

The Moshoeshoe Walk is a 72-mile, three-day journey honoring
King Moshoeshoe I and celebrating Basotho unity since 2007.

A key aspect of Khotso’s creative journey is his commitment to using his art for social impact. Currently, he is spearheading a groundbreaking project aimed at revitalizing the wool and mohair industry in Lesotho. This industry, which has been a cornerstone of the nation’s economy for generations, faces significant challenges in today’s globalized market. Through his project, Khotso seeks to shine a light on the hardworking individuals who sustain this sector, amplify their stories, and explore innovative ways to enhance their livelihoods. By marrying his artistic vision with a drive for community upliftment, Khotso exemplifies how creativity can be a powerful tool for change.

At Space Agency, Khotso has cultivated a culture of excellence and innovation. Alongside his team, he provides tailored creative solutions that empower clients to connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. The agency’s work spans a diverse range of industries, helping brands craft compelling narratives through visually stunning content and strategic marketing approaches. Whether it’s a promotional campaign, a corporate documentary, or a sleek graphic design project, Space Agency is committed to delivering work that exceeds expectations.

Doing live broadcast during the Basotho
200 year’s bicentennial celebration event in 2024

What sets Khotso apart is his ability to blend technical expertise with a unique artistic vision. His photography and films are characterized by their emotional depth, meticulous attention to detail, and a narrative style that draws viewers into the heart of the story. From the intimate portrait of an individual to the sweeping landscapes of a community, Khotso’s work captures the essence of his subjects with honesty and respect.

Despite his numerous achievements, Khotso remains grounded and focused on continuous growth. He draws inspiration from his experiences, the people he works with, and the ever-changing world around him. His journey as a self-taught artist and entrepreneur is a source of motivation for aspiring creatives, proving that passion, resilience, and hard work can open doors to endless possibilities.

Khotso auctioning an art piece at the King Letsie III Art Exhibition in 2023.

As Khotso looks to the future, he envisions expanding his creative endeavors while continuing to uplift his community. He is passionate about mentoring young artists, sharing his knowledge, and fostering a new generation of storytellers who can carry forward the rich cultural heritage of Lesotho and beyond. Through his work, he hopes to inspire others to dream boldly, take risks, and harness their creativity to make a positive impact on the world.

Khotso Maphathe’s story is one of innovation, perseverance, and purpose. From his early days as a self-taught artist to his role as a co-founder of Space Agency and a leader in community-driven initiatives, he has proven that art is not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating connections, sparking conversations, and driving meaningful change. His work continues to touch lives, bridge cultures, and redefine what it means to be a creative professional in the modern era.

For more insights into Khotso Maphathe's work and creative journey, you can connect with him on Instagram

Khotso Maphathe on Instagram

Kurt Wright is a Jamaican filmmaker, director, and screenwriter renowned for his commitment to authentic Caribbean storytelling. Born and raised in Kingston, Wright graduated from the New York Institute of Technology in 2004 with a Bachelor of Communication Arts in Film, Television and Radio Production.

Kurt onset alongside colleagues Joseph Fenton (Left) and Jeff Crossley (Right)

Over the next decade, Wright established himself as one of Jamaica’s most sought-after assistant directors, contributing to notable projects such as No Time To Die, Yardie(directed by Idris Elba), Get Millie Black (created by Marlon James), Marvel's Luke Cage and Bob Marley: One Love.

Making the jump to Directing in 2010, he compiled a resume of commercial work for clients including UNICEF, Scotiabank, Visa and MasterCard, while also helming multiple music videos for artistes such as Christopher Martin, Romain Virgo, and The NoMaddz. With a specific focus on story driven imagery, his creative anchor then led him into the world of television, when he was brought on to direct the second season of the popular Jamaican comedy series Me & Mi Kru.

In 2016, Wright's acclaimed short film Origins, was produced through JAFTA Propella and the CHASE Fund. A re-imagining of Jamaican history and folklore, the time traveling fantasy/adventure features many characters from Jamaica’s past such as “Anansi”, "Three Finger Jack" and "Nanny of the Maroons." The film premiered at the Trinidad & Tobago Film Festival and won multiple awards at GATFFEST, including the Award for Best Local Film as well as the Viewers Choice Award.

A production still from “Origins” - Wright’s proof of concept pilot
centered around Jamaican mythology.
Featuring Christopher Daley (Left) and Wesley Hylton (Right)

With his narrative work presented at the UN, Canada, England and Africa, Wright continues to build a strong reputation as a storyteller. Currently developing Origins on a larger scale, he continues to champion Jamaican stories with the aim of bringing Caribbean narratives to global streaming platforms across the world.

For more insights into Kurt Wright's work and creative journey, you can connect with him on Instagram

Kurt Wright on Instagram

Noelle Wright is a multifaceted Jamaican actress, producer, voice-over artist, and creative leader whose work spans stage, screen, and advocacy. With a career rooted in performance and a passion for storytelling, she has become a prominent figure in Jamaica’s film and television landscape.

Wright began her acting journey at the age of seven, and has performed alongside Jamaican theatre legends such as Charles Hyatt, Oliver Samuels, and Leonie Forbes. Her talent was recognized in 2011 when she received the Actor Boy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in White Witch. She also co-starred in Tarrell Alvin McCraney’s In The Red & Brown Water, which won the Actor Boy Award for Best Tragedy.

Noelle performing as ‘Millie’ in the White Witch
alongside actor Philip Clarke as Taku

Transitioning from stage to screen, Wright has appeared in various short films and television shows, including the feature film Destiny, Kurt Wright’s short film Masterminds, The Quiet Noise, and Gabrielle Blackwood’s Kendal.

In addition to acting, Wright has established herself as a sought-after voice-over artist, lending her voice to commercials and narrative projects.

Wright also credits her growth in the industry to her various roles with Cinecom Productions Ltd, a premier production company in Jamaica that has facilitated most of the major films that have come from overseas to tell their stories on the island.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Wright was previously a board member of the Jamaica Film and Television Association (JAFTA), contributing to the development and promotion of Jamaican film. She now serves as the Vice President of Women in Film and Television Jamaica (WIFTJA), where she advocates for the advancement of women in the industry.

Photo credit: Kurt Wright

For more insights into Noelle Wright's work and creative journey, you can connect with her on Instagram

Noelle Wright on Instagram

Regina Lepping is a Solomon Islands filmmaker, writer, photographer, and youth advocate dedicated to preserving indigenous storytelling and fostering social change through visual media. Co-founder of the Native Lens Film Festival (NLFF), she plays a pivotal role in amplifying Pacific voices and nurturing a new generation of local filmmakers.

Lepping's journey into filmmaking was shaped by her experiences during the ethnic tensions in the Solomon Islands from 1989 to 2003. As a child, she found solace in the oral traditions shared by her grandmother, which inspired her commitment to storytelling as a means of healing and unity.

Her directorial debut, Sky Aelans (2021), co-directed with her twin sister Georgianna and others, is a short documentary highlighting the sacred high mountain forests of the Solomon Islands. The film was showcased at the Mountainfilm Festival in Telluride, Colorado, and the Melbourne Short Film Festival, where it won Best Short Documentary.

Regina Lepping and Jeremy Bobby in Blackbird (dir. Amie Batalibasi),
a historical drama about South Sea Islanders kidnapped
to work on Australian plantations in the 1800s.

The short film Blackbird (2016), directed by Australian-Solomon Islander filmmaker Amie Batalibasi, portrays the harrowing story of Solomon Islander siblings, Rosa and Kiko, who were kidnapped from their island home in the late 1800s and forced to work on a sugar cane plantation in Queensland, Australia. The film sheds light on the little-known history of "blackbirding," a practice where Pacific Islanders were coerced into labor under conditions akin to slavery. Regina Lepping's compelling performance as Rosa earned her the Best Female Lead award at the 2017 Sydney Indie Film Festival.

A screenshot from the film Blackbird.
Location at Mackay, Queensland, Australia 2015.

In 2019, Regina and Georgianna Lepping launched the Native Lens Film Festival, the first-ever film festival in the Solomon Islands dedicated to indigenous storytelling. Starting with minimal resources—a projector and a white cloth—they created a platform that now connects over 150 filmmakers and storytellers across the Pacific, including participants from Fiji, Vanuatu, New Zealand, Canada, and Brazil.

NLFF has become a cornerstone for cultural preservation and creative expression, hosting workshops, screenings, and the annual 48-Hour Film Challenge, which encourages local filmmakers to produce short films that explore themes of identity, tradition, and environmental conservation.

Beyond filmmaking, Lepping is actively involved in social advocacy. She spearheads the "Access to Justice" project, a multimedia initiative aimed at training rural police officers to support women and girls facing gender-based violence. This project addresses the challenges women in remote areas face in accessing legal assistance.

The Lepping sisters do alot to uplift the youth in communities
across the Solomon Islands.

Lepping also serves as a board member of Native Stories, a nonprofit organization that supports indigenous media makers, further extending her impact on community development and cultural preservation.

As a One Young World Peace Ambassador, Lepping represents the Solomon Islands on global platforms, advocating for unity and the power of storytelling in peacebuilding. Her work has been featured in international forums, including the Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, where she contributed an essay on developing filmmaking in the Solomon Islands.

For more insights into Regina Lepping's work and creative journey, you can connect with her on Instagram

Regina Lepping on Instagram

Tumeli “Meli” Tuqota is a Fijian-Tongan filmmaker, animator, and motion designer whose work is reshaping the cinematic landscape of the Pacific. With over 15 years of experience in graphic and motion design, Tuqota has emerged as a leading voice in contemporary Pacific storytelling, blending animation, documentary, and cultural heritage to create compelling narratives that resonate both locally and globally.

Born in Gasauva, Cakaudrove, Fiji, with maternal roots in Ha’apai, Tonga, Tuqota identifies as a “work-in-progress Pacific Islander.” His creative journey is deeply influenced by his quest to reconnect with his cultural heritage, a theme that permeates much of his work. Tuqota's storytelling often explores identity, tradition, and the complexities of modern Pacific life, aiming to bridge the gap between ancestral knowledge and contemporary experiences.

A screenshot form the film Soli Bula

Notable Works

You, the Choice of My Parents (2019): An animated short film that delves into the life of a woman navigating an arranged marriage, animated on traditional Tongan cloth called Ngatu. The film was showcased at the imagine NATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival in Toronto and the Māoriland Film Festival in New Zealand, earning the Best Micro-Animation award at the Micromania Film Festival.

Soli Bula (2021): Set in an alternate reality where Fijian traditions remain unaltered by colonialism, this animated short explores cultural resilience through the story of launching a new Drua (ship). The film was produced with community support and highlights Tuqota's commitment to preserving and reimagining Pacific narratives.

Elections in Paradise (2024): Co-directed with Laisiasa Dave Lavaki, this documentary offers a personal exploration of Fiji's 2022 general elections. Blending humor and introspection, the film captures the duo's journey across Fiji as they engage with citizens and reflect on the nation's political landscape. Premiering at the Living Democracy Exhibition in London, it marked a significant milestone in Fijian documentary filmmaking.

Kaliti, heroine of Tumeli Tuqota’s short film Daunitukutuku, kneels
in her village with an injured child—bearing an ominous message for all.

Tuqota's work has garnered international recognition, leading to collaborations with institutions such as the University of the South Pacific and participation in global initiatives like the Oceanic Refractions Transmedia Project. He is also an active mentor, conducting workshops to empower emerging Pacific filmmakers and sharing his expertise to foster a vibrant creative community.

For more insights into Tumeli Tuqota's work and creative journey, you can connect with him on Instagram

Tumeli Tuqota on Instagram

------------------------------------------

ABOUT THE ALMA FILM FESTIVAL

The Alma Film Festival is set to debut in late spring 2026 in the stunning Las Terrenas community of Samaná Bay, Dominican Republic, creating a bold new space for filmmakers from the Global South to connect, create, and celebrate storytelling that reshapes the world.

For six unforgettable days, we’re bringing together visionary filmmakers, industry leaders, and film lovers for a mix of screenings, deep conversations, and curated cultural experiences. Set within the Alma de Samaná Golf Resort and Residences, this festival combines world-class cinema with breathtaking landscapes, luxury, and meaningful connections that live beyond their festival experience.

“At Soule Reserve, cultural and sporting events are more than entertainment—they are catalysts for meaningful conversations and connection. Through upcoming experiences like the Alma Film Festival and The Dandelion Institute Film & TV Fellowship, we are building a destination where cultural optimization, creativity, and community thrive. As we grow, we’ll continue adding value to Samana province by hosting professional golf tournaments, music festivals, and other specialty events—each rooted in cultural excellence and social innovation - to create lasting impact. We’re excited to welcome the Alma Film Festival Team into the vibrant community we’re building through our flagship venture, Alma de Samaná Golf Resort and Residences in the Samaná province of the Dominican Republic.”

~ Diana Lynch, CEO of Soule Reserve

------------------------------------------

More About the Fellowship

THE MISSION: Our mission is to empower visionary filmmakers from the Global South and underrepresented markets worldwide. We provide essential resources that spark artistic innovation, cultivate groundbreaking content, and enable meaningful cultural exchange. By equipping these creators with the tools to build sustainable careers in the evolving film industry, we help them become consistent contributors to the global cultural conversation.

THE VISION: We envision a global film industry shaped by an optimized spectrum of filmmakers from every corner of the world, integrating the latest technology and creative innovation to tell dynamic stories that resonate globally. By sharing our stories, we can facilitate meaningful cultural exchange across nations, enhance mutual understanding, and improve the global landscape for all people.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW: The Dandelion Institute's Film & Television Fellowship is an innovative, optimized, and intentional program designed to cultivate groundbreaking filmmakers from the Global South and other underrepresented markets around the world. Integrating the career ambitions of each participant, this four-phase program blends creativity, enterprise, and cutting-edge technology to prepare filmmakers who are market-ready upon completion.

Our forward-thinking, tech-driven approach emphasizes artistic discovery and embraces the use of unorthodox methods, in addition to providing fellows with the skills to navigate the business side of the global film industry.

This year, six selected teams undergo intensive training and mentorship, gaining hands-on production experience to enhance their ability to take projects from development to delivery.

Fellows gain exclusive access to resources, top-tier mentors, and global networking opportunities, setting the stage for them to push the boundaries of storytelling and be active participants in a constantly evolving entertainment landscape.

The Fellowship will culminate each year in a dynamic showcase at the Alma Film Festival, which is set to debut in Spring of 2026 in the Las Terranas/Samana region of the Dominican Republic.

The Alma Film Festival and The Dandelion Institute's Film & Television Fellowship are integral components of the vibrant cultural ecosystem surrounding Soule Reserve’s flagship venture, the Alma de Samana Golf Resort and Residences.

------------------------------------------

The Dandelion Institute’s Film & Television Fellowship is supported by the Alma Global Community Development Corporation through a global grassroots movement. We are calling on our community to stand with us by contributing to this vital effort.

Click Here To Donate