WGSA Online Session: Big Stories in Small Packages

Big Stories in Small Packages: Writing and Making Short Films as an Indie Filmmaker in South Africa Dean Ravell and Stephen Nagel

Join the Writers Guild of South Africa for an essential workshop empowering writers to explore the dynamic world of short films and indie filmmaking! Discover how short films can be your powerful calling card, kickstarting careers, refining your storytelling, and giving you creative control.

This session will cover:

* Writing for Shorts: Best practices for tight, impactful narratives.

* Writing Cinematically: How to use visuals to tell your story.

* From Page to Screen: Making the indie leap with practical production insights.

* Being an Independent Filmmaker in South Africa: Opportunities, challenges, and building your creative tribe.

* Lessons from the Trenches: Real-life examples, breakthroughs, and what to know before your first short.

Webinar details

Date: Saturday, 23 August 2025
Time: 9:00 to 11:00 SAST

Location: Online (Zoom link sent by 12pm, 22 August 2025 – Please add communications@writersguildsa.org to your contact list)

NB: Registration is essential. WGSA members may attend free of charge. We also invite members of our sister organisations Safrea and DFA to attend free of charge. Non-members pay R 75.00.

Meet your Speakers

Dean Ravell

Dean Ravell is an award-winning screenwriter and director based in Cape Town, and a Writers Guild of South Africa council member. Holding an Honours Degree in Media, Theory and Practice from UCT and an Impact Film Producer certification, he has written and directed numerous short films, including Detour, Frozen Yoghurt, and Plunder. Dean co-founded BTG Productions and is currently developing a GBV-focused feature film with a leading South African production company.

Stephen Nagel

An award-winning screenwriter and director from Cape Town, Stephen Nagel crafts captivating, character-driven stories with powerful visuals. A UCT Screenwriting graduate, his films like MIA&I, Day Zero, and Protégé explore authentic human experiences across various genres. Stephen, co-founder of BTG Productions, is currently developing feature scripts and TV pilots, including a commissioned crime thriller for streaming.