Time: Wednesday August 20th at 14:30 Venue: Quality Hotel Maritim, Maritim Hall Entry: Free
Photo: From the film PORSLIN by Ann Holmgren Aurebekk
The International Sámi Film Institute (ISFI) is at the forefront of Indigenous storytelling, empowering Sámi filmmakers and nurturing a vibrant Sámi film industry across Norway, Sweden, and Finland. This showcase provides a unique opportunity to explore the richness of Sámi cinema, understand the vital role of ISFI, and examine the pathways for integrating Sámi voices into the broader Nordic film landscape.
Participants:
Anne Lajla Utsi, Managing Director of the International Sámi Film Institute
Ann Holmgren Aurebekk, Sámi film director, screenwriter, and photographer
Kati Eriksen, Sámi producer, activist, and cultural strategist
Marja Bål Nango, Sámi film director, producer
Moderator: Wendy Mitchell
About ISFI
The International Sámi Film Institute (ISFI) is building a sustainable and innovative Sámi film industry that is globally visible and attractive.
The institute is dedicated to capacity building, developing, and supporting Sámi filmmakers by organizing workshops, seeking international funding, and opening pathways for Sámi filmmakers to major international platforms. International Sámi Film Institute offers funding in various categories. Established in 2009, the International Sámi Film Institute is jointly owned by the Sámi Parliament, Norway, and Guovdageaidnu Municipality.
About the participants
Anne Lajla Utsi has served as Managing Director of the International Sámi Film Institute (ISFI) since 2009. She belongs to the Sámi people, is one of the founders of the Institute, and has a background as a documentary film director.
Ann Holmgren Aurebekk is a multifaceted Sámi film director, screenwriter, and photographer. She graduated from the Norwegian Film School in 2008 and works across Norway, Sweden, and Sápmi. Known for her curiosity about diverse perspectives, she creates documentaries, short films, and innovative formats. Her work has received international recognition, including screenings at the Brooklyn International Film Festival and the St. Petersburg International Film Festival. Her 360-degree film Ovias was part of ÁRRAN360 at La Biennale di Venezia. Often exploring existential themes and Sámi culture, Holmgren Aurebekk is currently developing her first feature film, Porslin, with support from the International Sámi Film Institute.
Kati Eriksen is a Sámi producer, activist, and cultural strategist from the Deatnu valley. She entered film through the deeply personal documentary Home River. With a background in advocacy, education, and production, she advances Sámi rights, language, and culture through policy and her company, Home River Media.
Marja Bål Nango is a Sámi film director, screenwriter, and producer. As a director, her award-winning films Hilbes biigá and Njuokčamat (The Tongues) have screened at major festivals worldwide. She co-founded 7išh Film in 2023 with Ingir Bål Nango to champion Sámi ownership and Indigenous storytelling. In 2025, she produces Romssa Táksi and Gusto Gusto and serves as the Sámi producer for The Herder, the company’s debut feature in development.
Wendy Mitchell is a journalist, moderator and film festival consultant. She is a contributing editor at Screen International (where she previously served as editor in chief) and is the editor of the European Film Academy’s Close-up magazine.She is a delegate for the San Sebastian International Film Festival, a consultant for the International Film Festival Rotterdam, Zurich Film Festival and Zurich Summit, Connext by Flanders Image, Goteborg’s Nordic Film Market and TV Drama Vision.
Made in collaboration with The International Sámi Film Institute (ISFI)
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