For the Love of Documentary Film

Iikka Vehkalahti (1949–2024) was a Finnish documentarian – film director, producer, and mentor. As the head of Yle’s Documentary Project, Iikka was known in Finland for his socially engaged documentaries, and internationally for his dedicated work in support of documentary filmmakers. His impact was especially significant in the Global South.

Iikka Vehkalahti Fund

Honoring the legacy of Finnish documentarian Iikka Vehkalahti (1949–2024).

Documentary film producer Iikka Vehkalahti was internationally known for his socially engaged documentaries and for his work as an inspirer and mentor of documentary filmmakers. He founded
Rough Cut Service,
a collective of world-class editors that has supported filmmakers around the globe for 15 years.

The fund is managed by the Foundation for Media and Development (Vikes). Iikka was one of the founding members of Vikes. At the core of Vikes’ work is supporting journalists where freedom of expression is under threat, and carrying out long-term partnerships in the Global South.

award

Iikka Vehkalahti award carries forward Iikka’s life’s work by supporting brave and curious emerging documentary filmmakers – especially in regions where support systems for film are weak, such as the Global South. The award combines financial support with Rough Cut Servicen mentorship, and it is awarded at prominent documentary events.

Learn more about Iikka’s career

idf: Iikka Vehkalahti

ESoDoc: Iikka Vehkalahti

Film producer Iikka Vehkalahti has earned the right to vote for the Academy Awards.

Amidst entertainment, people are once again feeling the appeal of documentary films, says the 70-year-old director Iikka Vehkalahti

Iikka Vehkalahti’s passion for documentary film has carried him across the globe.

Iikka Vehkalahti: Think global, think universal

ida: Taking Giant ‘Steps’to Address AIDS in Africa

“Documentary film seeks to lift the veil between you and the understanding of life,’ – says Iikka Vehkalahti.