Momentum 2026–27
The groundbreaking programme for Black creatives returns
Applications now open - deadline 20 April 2026, 9am
Momentum, the programme for Black filmmakers designed to support them with mental health wellbeing, mentoring and access to industry professionals returns for 2026.
It is a free, nine-month professional development programme for 30 selected Black UK-based filmmakers and content creators, supported by Channel 4 and Sony Pictures Television.
Now in its fourth year, the programme has supported 140 Black British-based creatives. Momentum 2026–27 runs May 2026 to February 2027, supporting a new cohort of 30 participants from across the UK.
The programme follows the full lifecycle of a creative project — from initial idea through development, production, post-production and distribution — so participants build knowledge and confidence at every stage, as well as give you the tools to create a visible and viable route within the film and television industry.
What the 30 selected filmmakers will receive
Masterclasses sessions with industry practitioners specifically selected to meet you where you are in your career — and their insight into the specific challenges facing Black creatives working in the UK today.
One-to-one mentoring - A dedicated industry mentor, matched to your practice and career stage. Sessions are structured around your goals, with regular check-ins.
Wellbeing sessions delivered in partnership with Inside Out Well-being and led by Vanessa Boachie, Psychotherapist & Coach. Created exclusively for Black filmmakers and content creators on the programme, these sessions offer a dedicated space to explore identity, creativity, performance, mental well-being and what it truly means to navigate the industry as a Black creative. Through honest conversations, cultural exploration, and practical tools, you'll leave better equipped to support your well-being both personally and professionally.
Industry roundtables (new for 2026–27) Intimate, confidential conversations with senior industry figures. Smaller than a masterclass, you’ll have the space to ask the questions that rarely get asked in larger rooms.
Who can apply?
Momentum is free to apply for and free to participate in. It is open to emerging Black filmmakers and content creators over 22 years old who are based in the UK and are looking for guidance on the next step in their film or television career.
Momentum 2026 is all about supporting our cohort with pushing things forward in their careers. Given the high number of applications, we are really looking to understand if and why the programme would be particularly meaningful at this stage in your journey.
There are no rules about what that looks like for you; maybe film has been a longtime passion but you're ready to turn it into a career, maybe you are hoping to transition careers, maybe you've made your first project and not sure about your next move, or maybe you've struggled to gain access to similar opportunities or industry networks.
Deadline: 20 April 2026, 9am
Programme dates: May 2026 – February 2027
We will be hosting a Zoom call to discuss any questions on
Wednesday, 8 April at 6 pm. Click here to register.
A recording will be made available for people who cannot attend.
Momentum Launch Event 2023
Momentum FAQs
Can I apply a second time?
Yes, but please make it clear to us in your application what is new this time round.
Do I need professional experience to apply?
No, industry experience is not a requirement, passion is as important and any transferable skills you have.
Can I work at the same time?
Yes, sessions are in person and mainly held in the early evenings, there will be some daytime sessions, dates of which will be shared well ahead of time.
Some Recordings of masterclasses will be available to participants who are unable to attend session in person when the team has been notified in advance.
How do I apply?
Via the online application form only — the form cannot be submitted by email or any other method.
Can I save my application and come back to it?
Yes, you can close the form at any time and your answers will be saved for 15 days, as long as you return on the same browser and device, and not in Incognito or Private browsing mode. You will be taken back to the start on return but your previous answers will be visible.
Can I apply on my phone or tablet?
Yes
When will I hear if I have been selected?
We will inform applicants on the 11th May whether they have been successful or not.
Will I receive feedback on my application if I'm unsuccessful?
No, unfortunately due to the high number of applications, individual feedback will not be provided.
Who do I contact if I have a question about the application?
Email momentum@weareparable.com — allow up to 48 hours for a response.
Alumni programme
Momentum's commitment doesn't end after nine months. In 2026–27, the programme's 140 alumni will have access to seven bespoke masterclasses running June 2026 to February 2027 — built around what they've told us they need, covering distribution, feature development, representation and more.
What Alumni Say
We Are Parable’s Momentum programme created lasting industry connections that opened doors I couldn’t have accessed alone. Through relationships with the Sony Pictures [Television] team, I had the opportunity to shadow director John Hayes on This City Is Ours in Liverpool. It was an inspiring and invaluable experience that has had a lasting impact on my development as a director. Alongside this, my short film The Mediator has performed strongly on the festival circuit, reinforcing my confidence in the path ahead.
- Dean Leon Anderson
“Momentum expanded my understanding of filmmaking and collaboration. Learning from George Amponsah, whose first project One + One felt like a baptism into the power of documentary filmmaking, I’m incredibly proud that both George (Executive Producer) and Tolu Stedford (Co-Producer) are now collaborators on my first feature documentary, something that would not have been possible without the programme.”
- Larissa Hope
Alumni 2023
Press Coverage