AUC CELEBRATES THE GRADUATION OF THE INAUGURAL COHORT OF EGYPT’S FIRST FILM INDUSTRY BUSINESS CERTIFICATE

The American University in Cairo’s (AUC) School of Continuing Education (SCE) announced the graduation of the first cohort of the Film Industry Business Certificate, launched this summer in partnership with the international Silver Screen Film School in Romania. The program is the first of its kind in Egypt which provides hands-on training in production, marketing, budgeting, distribution and film financing, equipping participants with the business skills needed to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving film industry. Courses were taught by award-winning filmmakers and producers from Silver Screen Film School alongside AUC business experts.

“The certificate bridges a long-standing gap in film education, merging creativity with the vital business skills needed to thrive in the film industry,” said Mahmoud Allam, dean of SCE. “We’re proud to introduce a program that speaks directly to the needs of aspiring filmmakers, producers, marketers and entrepreneurs across the region. This collaboration is a strong example of how SCE continues to connect education to emerging market needs.”

Participants in the inaugural cohort included aspiring producers, marketers and creative entrepreneurs. They learned and received training on how to pitch projects, manage financing, navigate distribution and build personal brands using AI tools.

Speaking about their experience and why did they pick this program, several graduates noted that it was unique and different because it does not focus only on the creative and artistic side, but teaches film students how to turn ideas into real projects.

Yasmine Waali, filmmaker and a graduate of the program, said, “When I heard about the certificate, I was really excited. I had studied filmmaking, but never learned the business side formally. I picked it up through experience at festivals and production houses. As filmmakers, we truly need this knowledge.”

Similarly, Rehab Elghatrifi, a TV director and another graduate of the program noted, “The organizers were incredibly supportive, and the mentors — especially in production, marketing and film distribution — exceeded my expectations. You truly brought in the best people, and they shared their knowledge so generously.”

Mariam Hamdy ’06, ’14, co-founder of the Silver Screen Film School alongside Octavian Dăncilă, a Romanian senior film programmer noted that the program is designed not just for emerging talent, but also for anyone who didn’t previously have access to this kind of specialized film education, whether they’re shifting careers or reigniting a passion. Hamdy added that the program aims to fill a gap in the market and respond to a growing niche within the film industry.

“This program is designed to combine world-class mentorship from both Silver Screen and SCE’s strength in applied learning and professional development,” said Doaa Salem, senior director of outreach and partnerships at AUC’s SCE. "We see this certificate as the first step in building a stronger, more resilient film ecosystem, and we’re committed to supporting its continued growth.”