Dhaka DocLab inspires aspiring student filmmakers
On December 18th, Brac University hosted a masterclass and workshop session organised by Dhaka DocLab. The event provided students with an intensive introduction to non-fiction storytelling and the technical requirements of documentary production within the South Asian landscape.
The session was led by Tareq Ahmed (Director, Dhaka DocLab) and Dina Hossain (Assistant Professor, GenEd). They shared their professional insights into how documentaries function as tools for social change and cultural preservation. Tareq explained that Dhaka DocLab operates as a film market where filmmakers can pitch their projects. He noted,
“This is what we call a storytelling workshop for Bangladeshi filmmakers focusing on non-fiction storytelling. It is a learning process where they get ideas on how and where to develop the story further.”
A significant portion of the workshop focused on the complexities of visual storytelling. Dina Hossain discussed the enthusiasm of the students, noting that many are passionate about both documentary and narrative filmmaking despite the absence of a dedicated media production programme. She remarked, “I hope they understand the complexities of how you make a documentary story that is engaging. Making films takes work; it is not just about being creative, but it is the ninety percent of perspiration you put behind that.”
The mentors highlighted that for young filmmakers, the challenge lies in moving beyond a raw idea to a structured proposal capable of attracting international funding. The workshop also addressed the transition of cinema to digital platforms and the emergence of “personal cinema” as a genre within documentary filmmaking.
The event concluded with an interactive session where students engaged with the mentors. Participants discussed the future of ethical storytelling and the growing global interest in diverse perspectives. By the end of the day, students gained a clearer understanding of the documentary landscape, feeling inspired to tell their own stories with both creativity and persistence.
