Women Directing Mentorship

What it is

A mentorship programme in its eighth cycle designed to discover aspiring female directors with unique voices and provide a launchpad for their careers. The winner shadows a director working on an episode of a Shondaland original series. Semi-finalists are selected by a judging panel based on originality, creativity, production quality, and format appropriateness.

Who it is for

Female directors with at least 3 years of professional experience who have not previously directed a network series.

Open to artists in United States, United Kingdom.

The call says: “Source page restricts to United States, United Kingdom”

Where

United States

When

November 3, 2026, 13 days left

Programme dates not listed

What you get

The winner shadows a director on a Shondaland television series episode, and semi-finalists receive an all-access badge to SeriesFest Season 13 in 2027. Both receive promotional and publicity amplification through editorial features, social media, and national press opportunities.

What you need to apply

• Work Sample: a short film or feature
• Personal Introduction Video: 3-5 minute video introducing yourself, your unique voice and style, and why you are the right fit for the mentorship
• Reel: under 15 minutes or a short film showcasing directing work (may include student work)
• CV/Resume

How long it takes

About 3 hours

Medium application. Estimated from the 4 items this application asks for, not from the organisation.

Cost to apply

$50 until September 15, 2026; $75 from September 16 to November 3, 2026

Apply

https://airtable.com/embed/appDIiwuNQvGA8wEF/pagFRYCwZcuEQHmqG/form