A new project promoting Arab film projects and creative talent was launched at the Dubai International Film Festival. The Arab Film Institute’s aims and objectives were revealed at a press conference.
Paul Badoudjian, the initiative’s executive director, said the idea had been “initiated 10 months ago”.
He described the institute as “important” and that it was created “to have a wider outreach among professionals”. He also talked about the role of industry professionals.
“Without the willingness of professionals to join the initiative, we cannot survive,” he said.
Another member stated the aim is “creating a platform where industry professionals’ ideas can help people. The first practical goal is to receive members and establish a database, as well as to host the first Arab Film Awards”.
The purpose of these awards is to honour and acknowledge people working in the film industry.
Other activities include training filmmakers and to help create a platform for learning.
Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi, director of Funn, also spoke about the need for such an initiative.
“More interaction is necessary,” she said. “We need this vision in the Arab world. The support for youth filmmakers is really necessary now.”
Dorra Bouchouha, a Tunisian producer, also discussed the timeliness of this event. She said the initiative is, “a really unique opportunity and it’s very important”.
The session ended with a question-and-answer session during which panel members emphasised the initiative’s available only for Arab communities and for people of Arab background.
For more details about Dubai International Film Festival, go to www.diff.ae.
— The Young Journalist Award (YJA) at Diff is a training programme for high school and university students who are aspiring writers and reporters. Eight students are competing at the festival this year. One winner will secure a monthlong internship with Gulf News.
