The tenth edition of the Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth recently concluded with a remarkable closing ceremony held at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park. Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA), the festival brought together prominent figures from the world of Arab cinema and drama.
During the grand finale, the festival recognized the outstanding talents of filmmakers and directors across seven distinct categories. Soudade Kaadan’s “Nezouh” was honored with the prestigious title of “Best Feature Film,” while Ahsan Minhas and Marwan Bakri’s “Sukoon” claimed the accolade for “Best GCC Short Film.” The heartwarming film “Hope,” created by Kanto Randresy, Oualid Laouer, Lucie Jean, Maxime Pitrou, and Henry Mbouen, received the “Best Students Film” award. In the realm of young cinema, Mujtaba Al-Hejji’s “Conscience” was recognized as the “Best Child Made Film.”
In the international category, Amir Honarmand’s “Silkworm” was hailed as the “Best International Short Film,” while Marjolaine Perreten’s “Pebble Hill” triumphed as the “Best Short Animated Film.” Kaisa Naess’s enchanting creation, “Titina,” was crowned the “Best Animated Feature Film.” Special mentions were also given to “Cat Kiss” by Hwang Soo-bin and “Aleise” by Abdullah Saharti.Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director FANN and SIFF, highlighted the festival’s role in nurturing creativity and inspiration among the younger generation in her address. She expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the artisans and storytellers whose films captivated the audience during the festival. Over the course of five days, more than 80 inspiring stories from around the world were showcased, creating a vibrant and culturally rich atmosphere in ‘Sultan’s Sharjah.’
Furthermore, Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi reiterated the festival’s unwavering support for the children of Palestine by donating its proceeds to the “Big Heart” campaign. This campaign is dedicated to assisting the children of Gaza and Palestine who are facing the challenges brought about by conflict.
She also expressed her deep gratitude towards the dedicated teams and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the resounding success of the tenth edition. She commended their unwavering commitment, cooperation, and enthusiasm, highlighting the excellent choices they made throughout the festival.
During the awards ceremony, various partners and supporters who contributed to the festival’s triumph were honored. These included Sharjah Media City “Shams” (Gold Sponsor), Al Hilal Enterprises, and Gulftainer (Strategic Partners), VOX Cinema, Al Zahia Theater (Quarter Qarn), Sharjah Academy for Performing Arts, and Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (Site Partners), City Center Al Zahia (Official Partner), Bee’ah Group (Silver Partner), and Sharjah International Airport.Other supporters of the 10th Sharjah International Film Festival for Children and Youth included the Sharjah Media Office, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, LEAP, EGMC – BMW, Lasirene Salon, Centro, and the Ministry of Culture and Youth, Oulad, and Grand Store. Educational support was provided by Nikon, and Etoile La Boutique / Ralph Lauren served as the festival’s fashion partner.
Peter Richards, Group CEO of Gulftainer, expressed pride in sponsoring the festival, reinforcing their commitment to Sharjah’s cultural vision and the promotion of talent, diversity, and inclusivity.
Fuad Mansoor Sharaf, Managing Director of the UAE Shopping Malls at Majid Al Futtaim Properties, highlighted their pleasure in hosting the festival for the second year at City Centre Al Zahia and VOX Cinemas, aiming to inspire creativity and support talents in art, media, and film.
Ignace Lahoud, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Entertainment, emphasised the transformative power of arts education and film, expressing pride in partnering with the Sharjah International Film Festival to amplify the voices of the next generation of filmmakers.
WAM