Volunteers
FAQ — Volunteering at ZagrebDox
1) What does it mean to be a volunteer at ZagrebDox?
Volunteering at ZagrebDox means being part of the festival team that makes screenings, guests, audiences and the entire festival “machinery” run smoothly. You’ll meet a bunch of people, see what the festival looks like “behind the scenes”, gain experience (and memories), and along the way, participate in a story that celebrates documentary film.
2) How do we select volunteers?
We select volunteers based on: interests and motivation (what interests you and where you see yourself), communication skills and responsibilities, availability during the festival days (and possibly before/after), experience (great if you have it, but not a requirement),
We want to assemble a reliable and energetic team open to learning and new experiences. In case a large number of people apply, priority will be given to those who can cover more days/hours and who are flexible.
3) What can volunteers do at the festival?
You can be part of several sectors (depending on the needs of the festival and your preferences):
Info desk - audience information, directions, help with schedules and locations.
Screening halls - welcoming the audience, helping with entry/exit, making sure that the screenings start on time.
Hospitality – help with welcoming guests, guidance, small logistics and support of the guest team.
Press - support to the press team (materials, media orientation, simple tasks as agreed).
ZagrebDox PRO – support to the team in the organization and logistics of the program
Festival center - help in the "heart of the festival": organization of the space, information, support for the program and the team.
Note: tasks can be changed throughout the day (depending on needs), with clear instructions from the head of the sector.
4) Will I get a festival t-shirt and bag?
That! Volunteers receive: festival t-shirt, festival bag, accreditation and diploma as confirmation of volunteering.
5) Will food be provided for volunteers?
Yes. Fresh food for volunteers is waiting for you every day in the festival center, and there is also a space to store jackets and bags, for a short break and rest when you are not on shift.
6) Is there a possibility of volunteering before and after the festival?
Yes, there is. We need help both before the festival (preparations, arranging materials, basic logistics) and after the festival (cleaning up, debt relief, final organization).
If you are interested in that too: be sure to indicate it in your application.
7) How many hours a day is it desirable to volunteer at the festival?
Most often, volunteering is done in shifts, and it is desirable that you can work several hours a day (depending on the agreement and schedule). It is important to us that you are realistic about your availability — it is better to have fewer hours, but reliably, than too many in order to avoid possible stressful situations. The exact schedule and duration of shifts are agreed upon after the selection of volunteers.
8) Do I have to reapply if I have already volunteered?
Yes. Even if you have already been part of the team, you need to reapply via the application link. In the notes, be sure to tell us if you have already volunteered and briefly describe where and when (e.g. “screening halls 2024”).
9) Can I be replaced for a shift?
Of course, but only with prior agreement with the volunteer manager and the heads of the sector in which you are assigned. Please do not arrange replacements “on the fly” without notice — the schedule must be stable because the operation of the halls and programs depends on it.
10) Can a friend enter the screening with my accreditation?
No, she cannot. But she can come and volunteer!
The accreditation is personal, valid only for you and you must wear it the entire time you are working at the festival. (And yes — it is checked 😊)
11) What if I am a minor?
You can volunteer at the festival from the age of 16. If you are a minor, you will need to bring written consent from your parent/guardian (details and a template will be provided after selection).
12) Do I need to have experience to volunteer?
You don't have to. Responsibility, communication and a willingness to work in a team are more important. You will acquire the necessary knowledge and information through instructions and a short briefing.
13) Can I choose the sector in which I volunteer?
You can state your preferences in the application, and we will try to match your wishes with the needs of the festival.
14) When will I receive feedback and a schedule?
After the application closes, we will contact the selected participants by e-mail with further steps, and the schedule is agreed upon in consultation with the sector leaders.
15) What if I get sick or something urgent comes up?
Contact your sector leader and volunteer leader as soon as possible. It is just important that we know in time.
16) What should I bring to my shift?
Comfortable shoes, a bottle of water and good vibes 🙂 You must wear your accreditation, and you will receive a t-shirt from the festival.
17) I have school/college/work — can I volunteer only on certain days?
Of course you can. In your application, please write down the exact days and times when you can. It helps us the most when the information is precise.
Contact for volunteers: volonteri@zagrebdox.net
