Industry

Presented during a breakfast at Conecta FICTION & ENTERTAINMENT in Cuenca (June 16-19, 2025)  Told by Women (Contado por Mulheres) is a groundbreaking initiative by Ukbar Filmes and Portuguese pubcaster RTP that’s redefining opportunities for female filmmakers. First launched at the Berlinale, the project began with 10 TV movies directed by 10 first-time women directors. Now, its second season doubles down with 20 new directors, affirming a long-term commitment to inclusion and creative empowerment.

“We’re proud to keep building a space where talent, creativity, and opportunity come together,” said Pandora da Cunha Telles, creator and producer of the project. The project is not only national in scope. It draws on international expertise to bolster its ambition, with a mentoring team that includes renowned producers Gudny Hummelvoll (Norway), Mariela Besuievsky (Spain), and Francesco Virga (Italy). Their involvement reinforces the project’s cross-border relevance and aligns it with wider European trends promoting excellence, diversity, and sustainable industry development. "Beyond its success in Portugal, Told by Women aspires to inspire parallel initiatives in other countries — with hopes of seeing similar editions emerge in France, Sweden, Croatia, or any nation ready to empower its women storytellers".

Supported by international mentors like Gudny Hummelvoll (Norway), Mariela Besuievsky (Spain), and Francesco Virga (Italy), the initiative blends local talent with cross-border expertise. It’s not just about opening doors — it’s about mentoring, producing real work, and reshaping Portugal’s audiovisual industry.

Season 2 brings together a dynamic group of women from film, theatre, dance, and advertising. Their films will offer fresh, human stories that reflect Portugal’s identity through a variety of visual styles and voices. With growing international interest and a 2026 premiere on RTP, Told by Women is more than a series — it’s a movement with global potential.