How did this grant contribute to the realization of your project in regard to artistic exchange, local cultural development and/or the promotion of cultural diversity?

My project is in the very early development stage. Attending the Berlinale Talents this year was a very good step for me as an artist and for the project as a start for networking, looking for crew members for the project and to exchange experience with the fellow participants from all over the world. It was a very good exposure for the project in the beginning.

How does exchange, networking and international contacts contribute to the development of your artistic and cultural project?

I work on a film that is happening in Egypt, but I believe it has a universal theme, so it was very important for me to talk about the film and discuss it with people in the industry from all over the world to make sure that they can relate with the film and I am sure I wouldn't have a better chance than the Berlinale to make this.

Can you elaborate on the learning and knowledge you have gained and shared throughout this experience?

The Berlinale Talents has a very rich program, I had the chance to meet experts in all the filmmaking fields, sound designers, editors, directors, cinematographers etc... Waking every morning and going to meet those experts and attending this valuable workshop was an unforgettable experience that I highly recommend. Also, spending a whole week with 250 passionate talents from 80 countries is a very important experience, you share and listen for new ideas and you feel that you are not struggling and dreaming alone, but we are a lot of cinema dreamers around the world.

Please indicate a link to your current work (website/facebook page)

http://www.rufysfilms.com