OPPO, in collaboration with Discovery, has unveiled the third edition of its global “Culture in a Shot” initiative, marking a significant evolution in how culture is explored, expressed, and shared in the digital age.
Now entering its third year, the 2026 edition introduces a major new component—the Filmmaker Accelerator Program—designed to nurture emerging creators and elevate cultural storytelling on a global stage.
Reframing Culture as a Living Experience
Under this year’s theme, “Meet Culture Anew, Make Your Moment,” the initiative shifts its focus from documenting tradition to capturing culture as a dynamic, evolving force shaped by everyday life.
“Culture is not only something we inherit—it is something we actively shape through how we live, connect, and express ourselves,” said Ling Liu, OPPO Overseas Chief Marketing Officer.
This perspective reflects a broader cultural shift. In today’s interconnected world, culture is increasingly defined not by geography alone, but by shared experiences across digital platforms, from short-form video and food culture to fashion and daily interactions.
Rather than preserving culture as a static concept, creators are now interpreting and reshaping it in real time, making storytelling more immediate, diverse, and accessible.
Filmmaker Accelerator: A Platform for Emerging Voices
At the heart of this year’s initiative is the newly launched Filmmaker Accelerator Program, a global effort aimed at supporting the next generation of storytellers.
Developed jointly by OPPO and Discovery, the program offers participants end-to-end mentorship, guiding them through the full creative process—from concept development to filming and post-production.
Creators will also receive grants and access to OPPO’s latest smartphone technology, enabling them to bring cinematic ideas to life. Selected works will be showcased through the Culture in a Shot platform, offering participants valuable international exposure.
In addition, creators entering the Super Video category of the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 may be invited to join the program, further strengthening the link between grassroots creativity and global recognition.
From Local Stories to Global Audiences
Beyond the accelerator, the initiative continues its broader mission of cultural exploration.
In 2026, OPPO and Discovery have begun new storytelling projects in Singapore, focusing on how Peranakan cuisine is being reinterpreted in contemporary society—an example of how tradition evolves through modern expression.
The programme also extends to global participation through the OPPO Culture Challenge, inviting users worldwide to capture and share cultural moments on social media using the hashtag #OPPOCultureChallenge.
These initiatives aim to bridge local and global narratives, allowing diverse cultural identities to reach wider audiences.
A Growing Global Vision
With a presence spanning more than 90 countries, OPPO continues to position culture as a central pillar of its global identity.
Through “Culture in a Shot,” the brand is not only showcasing creativity, but actively contributing to a more inclusive and participatory cultural dialogue—one where individuals are encouraged to tell their own stories and shape how culture is understood.
Technology as a Creative Enabler
Complementing the initiative is the introduction of OPPO’s latest flagship smartphone, designed to support high-quality visual storytelling.
As the lines between technology and creativity continue to blur, devices are becoming essential tools for capturing and expressing culture—empowering users to turn everyday moments into meaningful narratives.
