Patakha Pictures celebrated the fifth anniversary of its funding and mentorship programme for female filmmakers in Pakistan during a special event in Karachi on 19 October 2026. The ceremony showcased the work of eight women filmmakers selected for the 2026 edition of Claim the Frame, a project presented in partnership with the British Council Pakistan and the Scottish Documentary Institute.
These eight filmmakers, who travelled from various locations including Shimshal in Gilgit-Baltistan, worked in four pairs to produce documentaries. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy stated, "We have funded over 75 filmmakers. Their films have played in over 100 festivals around the world and have won over 22 awards."
Obaid-Chinoy added that while Pakistan possesses significant talent, the organisation provides the necessary access and opportunity for creators. Ishma Areeb and Javaria Waseem from Lahore are documenting the story of Anum Shakoor, who entered the world of tent pegging.
Aleezeh Fatima and Aisha Manzoor from Karachi are exploring the links between child marriage, poverty, and climate change in rural Sindh. Kinza Waqar and Jazaba are producing a documentary about the Cholistan Desert between Bahawalpur and Lahore, following Bakht Ali.
Waqar described the difficulties of filming as a woman, noting that she had to carry a camera and tripod on her shoulders to cross certain locations while dealing with biting insects. Laila Jamil remarked that the country has no shortage of stories worth sharing, but requires more space and support for diverse voices to be heard.
