Patakha Pictures, the film funding and mentorship initiative founded by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, has announced an open call for the 2026 edition of its documentary mentorship program, Claim the Frame. The fellowship invites women filmmakers from across Pakistan to apply by March 20, 2026.
The new cycle follows the completion of the program’s previous round in December 2025. According to organizers, the initiative aims to support emerging documentary storytellers and strengthen Pakistan’s independent film landscape through funding and structured mentorship.
Program background and partnerships
Launched in 2022, Patakha Pictures has supported 69 filmmakers to date. Their films have won more than 25 awards and screened at over 70 international festivals, according to the organization.
The program was created to amplify women’s voices in cinema. In 2024, it made a one-time exception to include both men and women from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the Newly Merged Districts, broadening access for filmmakers in underrepresented regions.
For its eighth edition, Patakha Pictures and SOC Films are partnering again with the Scottish Documentary Institute and the British Council to deliver the fellowship.
Eligibility and selection process
The 2026 cycle will select four pairs of women filmmakers aged 18 and above. Applicants must apply in pairs using a single application form.
Organizers say the program is seeking short documentary projects that explore themes including women’s empowerment, art, identity, culture and music. Selected fellows will receive project funding and five months of structured mentorship, working with international mentors and the SOC Films team.
The fellowship includes weekly online sessions and an in-person edit week in Karachi. The program will conclude with a closing ceremony where participants present their film trailers and connect with members of the documentary filmmaking community.
Timeline and how to apply
The 2026 fellowship will run from July to November 2026, with final selections scheduled to be announced in June 2026. Selected participants must commit to the full duration of the program.
Applications must be submitted by email to patakhapictures@gmail.com no later than March 20, 2026. Further details and the application form are available through the official link provided by the organizers.
