Our Mission
At Northern Lights Film Academy, our mission is to empower aspiring filmmakers with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to succeed in the dynamic world of cinema. We are committed to providing a comprehensive and immersive learning experience that fosters creativity, technical expertise, and a deep appreciation for the art of storytelling through film.
We strive to cultivate a supportive and inclusive community where students can collaborate, experiment, and grow as artists. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to mentoring students and helping them develop their unique voices and visions. We believe that everyone has a story to tell, and we are passionate about helping our students bring those stories to life on the screen.
Furthermore, we are deeply committed to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Alaska through filmmaking. We encourage our students to explore the unique stories and perspectives of our region, and to use their films to connect with audiences around the world.
Our Team
Our team is comprised of experienced filmmakers, educators, and industry professionals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and expertise with aspiring filmmakers. We are dedicated to creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment where students can thrive.
Anya Kovic
Founder & Director
Anya Kovic is an award-winning Alaskan filmmaker with over 20 years of experience in the industry. She has directed and produced numerous documentaries and feature films that have been screened at film festivals around the world. Anya is passionate about empowering the next generation of filmmakers and is committed to providing a high-quality education at Northern Lights Film Academy.
Bjorn Olafson
Lead Cinematography Instructor
Bjorn Olafson is a renowned cinematographer with extensive experience in both narrative and documentary filmmaking. His work has been recognized with numerous awards, and he is known for his innovative and visually stunning cinematography. Bjorn is passionate about teaching and mentoring students, and he is dedicated to helping them develop their own unique visual styles.
Katrina Petrova
Screenwriting Instructor
Katrina Petrova is a talented screenwriter with a background in playwriting and creative writing. She has written several award-winning screenplays and is passionate about helping students develop their storytelling skills. Katrina is known for her engaging teaching style and her ability to inspire students to create compelling and memorable characters.
David Miller
Film Editing Instructor
David Miller is a highly skilled film editor with over 15 years of experience in post-production. He has worked on a variety of projects, including feature films, documentaries, and television series. David is passionate about teaching the art of film editing and helping students master the technical and creative aspects of post-production.
Our History
Northern Lights Film Academy was founded in 2010 by Anya Kovic, a passionate Alaskan filmmaker who recognized the need for a high-quality film education program in the region. Anya envisioned an academy that would not only provide students with the technical skills they need to succeed in the film industry but also foster their creativity and help them develop their unique voices.
Since its inception, Northern Lights Film Academy has grown to become a leading institution for film education in Alaska. We have trained hundreds of aspiring filmmakers who have gone on to pursue successful careers in the industry. Our alumni have worked on numerous award-winning films and television shows, and many have started their own production companies.
Over the years, we have continuously evolved our curriculum and facilities to meet the changing needs of the film industry. We have invested in state-of-the-art equipment and software, and we have expanded our course offerings to include a wide range of filmmaking disciplines.
Our Values
At Northern Lights Film Academy, we are guided by a set of core values that inform everything we do:
- Excellence: We are committed to providing the highest quality film education possible.
- Creativity: We foster a culture of creativity and innovation, encouraging students to experiment and push boundaries.
- Collaboration: We believe in the power of collaboration and encourage students to work together on projects.
- Inclusivity: We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background or experience.
- Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and professionalism.
Our Facilities
Northern Lights Film Academy boasts state-of-the-art facilities designed to provide students with a hands-on, professional filmmaking experience. Our facilities include:
- Fully equipped soundstage for shooting films and television shows
- Post-production suites with professional editing software (Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve)
- Sound recording studio with industry-standard microphones and equipment
- Screening room with high-definition projector and surround sound system
- Classrooms with the latest technology for lectures and workshops
- Equipment rental room with a wide range of cameras, lighting, and grip equipment
- Dedicated student lounge and collaboration spaces