Talent Development Program
This residency also marks the launch of the Elevation Fund - a long-term commitment from The Outsiders to reinvest 1% of annual revenue into supporting emerging creatives.
Through this fund, we’re facilitating a Talent Development Weekend at the residency where participants will receive real-world briefs for a content competition:
$5,000 NZD cash grant to the top creative team
Mentorship from industry leaders
Gear packages from our technical sponsors
Extended support across FY25/26
Applications are now open for our 2025 Talent Development Program. This is your chance to work on real brand briefs, and learn from some of the best in the business.
Talent Development Weekend: August 8–10, 2025
Friday 8th - Participant exhibition in Wānaka (6PM - 8PM)
Saturday 9th - Talent Development Day at the residency house (9AM - 5PM)
Lead by Justin Mayers, Sam Levings, Michelle Bates
Fireside chats & Q&As
Receive real-world briefs from brands for the competition (winners announced 27th August)
Catered by fire chef Sam Lane
Sunday 10th - Filming day (with your allocated team) - submissions due by 23rd August
Location: Lake Hawea View property, Wānaka, NZ
Spots Available: 30
Eligibility: Open globally, we highly encourage NZ-based applicants
Ideal For: Early - to mid-career photographers, filmmakers, and digital storytellers
Applications take a few minutes to fill out below.
Applications close 16th July 2025. Everyone will be notified on 20th July whether they have progressed to the Talent Development Program. Regardless of the outcome, we will be staying connected to support where we can. We are stoked for you.
Apply now in 3 minutes.
Applications take a few minutes to fill out below.
Applications close 16th July 2025. Everyone will be notified on 20th July whether they have progressed to the Talent Development Program. Regardless of the outcome, we will be staying connected to support where we can. We are stoked for you.