Itegboje Daniel, Nigerian award-winning documentary filmmaker behind On Your Own (2023), has been selected as one of 12 fellows for the 2026 Next Doc Fellowship. The international program is designed to support emerging documentary filmmakers and strengthen their creative practice.
Daniel, who is also a medical student, says the selection holds particular significance for his filmmaking journey. Speaking with The Nollywood Reporter, he reflects on what the opportunity represents for his growth as a documentary filmmaker.
The Storymi Academy alumnus notes that he values fellowship programs that create space for documentary filmmakers from diverse backgrounds to develop their voice and refine their craft. He adds that the Next Doc Fellowship stood out because of its emphasis on authenticity and mentorship.
“Years ago, it was hard to navigate the documentary filmmaking space in Nigeria. There were little to no spaces to authentically be mentored, but then I got accepted into a similar fellowship by Storymi Academy and things changed from there,” he says.
He describes his time at Storymi Academy as a turning point, saying it felt like joining a creative community where he could grow and refine his skills. According to him, the Next Doc Fellowship offers a similar experience, but on a broader, international scale.
“The only difference is that we are brought together from multiple countries and we get to experience very diverse backgrounds, people and stories,” he says.
Reflecting on his selection, Daniel, known for his debut documentary The Journey to Joy (2022), says he applies to multiple opportunities regularly and is familiar with rejection, even though his success rate has improved over time.
“I just applied and forgot about it, and I felt very delighted when I saw the email for an interview and subsequent acceptance,” he says.
Daniel, who is also the co-founder of 3WM Productions, advises emerging documentary filmmakers to focus on practice and consistency rather than waiting for ideal conditions.
He encourages young filmmakers to start small, share their work, and learn through repetition. According to him, building a strong portfolio is essential for visibility and access to opportunities.
“Shoot a documentary film, screen it with friends, learn from that experience, and then shoot another one,” he says.
He adds that while international festivals may seem distant, consistent work eventually builds momentum and credibility over time. He also notes that African film festivals remain important entry points for emerging filmmakers looking to build recognition.
“It might seem things are slow, but at some point the work you’ve put in starts to compound,” he says. “Those film festivals, portfolio and traction would eventually give credibility to your work.”
