New Routes for New Voices – A Dedicated Path for Talent

For the first time, Sunny Side of the Doc introduces tailor-made professional pathways to guide participants through the market. In 2025, three thematic tracks are available: for distributors, producers… and new voices.

The goal of the New Routes for New Voices track: to offer structured, supportive guidance to emerging professionals taking their first steps into the international documentary market. Whether you're coming from a training program, pitching for the first time, or simply looking to understand how the market works, this journey is designed for you.

© Hugo Lafitte

The Before 2025 – Your First Step into the Market

Taking place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, the Before is designed to arm you with practical knowledge, insider tips, and strategic insights to help you navigate the international market more effectively.

Two essential sessions:

  • 9.00 PM (CEST)– How Distributors Can Be Your Game-Changers
    With Audrey Kamga (Arte Distribution) & Anne Olzmann (Albatross World Sales)

  • 3.00 PM (CEST) – Success Stories & Pitching Tips
    With Lucio Mollica (LOOKSfilm), Sebastian Gonzalez Mendez (Almicar Films), Nicolas Deschamps (Realworks)

Key Moments Not to Miss

The New Routes for New Voices track is aimed at participants who are new to the documentary industry and eager to understand how the market operates. Through pedagogical sessions, case studies, and inspiring encounters, it helps you find your footing in the international ecosystem. Key highlights of the track:

 

  • Diverse Voices on Screen: A Focus on Inclusion
    Tuesday, June 24 – 12:00 PM (CEST)
    In partnership with ReelAbilities (NYC), this session explores how broadcasters are working toward better disability representation on-screen and behind the scenes through inclusive programming strategies.
  • International co-production: the alchemy of creativity, financing and equity
    Tuesday, June 24 – 5:00 PM (CEST)
    With Christilla Huillard-Kann (ELDA Productions)
    A strategic take on international coproduction, based on the TOXICILY case. With 20+ years of experience, Christilla Huillard-Kann shares insights on balancing art and finance, navigating formats and funding, and building strong creative partnerships.
  • Authenticity Through Music
    Wednesday, June 25 – 12:00 PM (CEST)
    Explore how music can deepen emotional impact and narrative sincerity in documentaries, enhancing the viewer’s connection to the story.
  • One Day in the Life of Independent Distributors
    Thursday, June 26 – 10:00 AM (CEST)
    Step into the world of two European distributors and gain insight into their daily work, selection criteria, and how emerging producers can build productive relationships with them.

Enhance Your Experience with Expert Guidance

Navigating the documentary market for the first time can be overwhelming — that’s where Ask the Experts comes in. This initiative gives selected participants the opportunity to book 20-minute individual consultations with seasoned international professionals. Whether you’re refining your project, figuring out your next steps, or just looking for reassurance, these meetings offer focused, tailored guidance from trusted industry voices.

Who can participate?
The program is reserved for First-time Sunny Side participants and accredited professionals who submitted a project to the 2025 New Voices Call for Projects

How it works:

  • Receive a personalized invitation by email if you’re eligible to participate
  • Browse expert profiles and select up to two individuals for one-on-one consultations
  • Book your meetings directly via MySunny Space

Our experts cover a wide range of fields and topics — from editorial development and international coproduction to financing, pitching, and navigating cultural nuances. Meet the people who can help move your documentary forward.