Mohammed Farun joined the Film Fiji Script Writers Program in early 2023 as part of the inaugural cohort. During the program, he developed his skills as a screenwriter, learning how to better structure stories and elevate his craft. Beyond the creative growth, the program provided him with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to industry professionals he might not have otherwise met. With the support of program funding, Mohammed was also able to upgrade his filmmaking equipment, enhancing his technical capabilities.
A major outcome of the program was the formation of the “Fiji Film Collective,” an online community that connects aspiring and established filmmakers across the country. As the script program ended, Mohammed pursued a career in the creative industry, securing a position at Rani Photography in December 2023. There, he honed his skills in cinematography, directing, editing, and continued to apply his screenwriting talents in a professional setting.
Through the program, Mohammed connected with fellow creatives Penina Manu (also part of FSDP Cohort 1) and Herbert Powell. The trio began collaborating, and through the Fiji Film Collective group chat, discovered the PMI My Pacific Story short film competition. Motivated to complete their first film, they took the opportunity seriously: Penina developed the concept, Mohammed wrote the script, and the team shot the film using a Fujifilm camera, DJI Pocket Osmo 3, and an iPhone. Mohammed then edited the project over four days using Final Cut Pro X on his MacBook Air M2. Their film titled “For the Truth” went on to place 3rd in the competition — a strong debut for the team.
The competition win opened even more doors, especially through connections made with Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Ltd (Pasifika TV). Mohammed and his team are now actively working on several new projects, with plans to submit their work to upcoming festivals, including the Film Fiji Suva International Short Film Festival (SISFF). Mohammed credits the Film Fiji Script Writers Program as the key catalyst in his filmmaking journey. The program laid the foundation for his career, providing the tools, community, and confidence needed to take the first steps as a filmmaker and producer.
