Closing Ceremony of UNHCR x DIMFF Mobile Filmmaking Workshop 'Forced to Flee' Concludes with MOU Signing Ceremony

Closing Ceremony of UNHCR x DIMFF Mobile Filmmaking Workshop 'Forced to Flee' Concludes with MOU Signing Ceremony

Publish Date: 
Thursday, January 9, 2025

 

Dhaka, January 9, 2025 – The closing ceremony of the UNHCR x Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival (DIMFF) mobile filmmaking workshop, Forced to Flee, was held at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) Campus A in Dhanmondi. This event marked the culmination of a transformative three-week workshop aimed at empowering young filmmakers to craft compelling narratives about displacement and the resilience of refugees.

 

The workshop, a collaborative initiative between UNHCR and DIMFF, saw over 90 team applications from various universities. Out of these, five teams with a total of 20 participants were selected to participate in this prestigious program. The selected teams represented American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB), Daffodil International University, BRAC University, ULAB, and Shanto-Mariam University of Creative Technology.

 

During the closing ceremony, the teams showcased their films, each reflecting the unique stories and perspectives developed throughout the workshop. The showcased films included:

A Decision – BRAC University, The Stateless Girl – Daffodil International University, Eggshell – ULAB, In Sight – Shanto-Mariam University of Creative Technology, The Sky – AIUB.

 

These films will be featured in the upcoming 11th Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival 2025, highlighting the talent and dedication of these young filmmakers.

 

The event was graced by DIMFF Advisor Syeda Sadia Mehjabin and UNHCR Representatives Kevin Lindblom and Nicholas. In his address, Nicholas emphasized the significance of film and mobile technology in reshaping public perceptions about refugees, stating: "We recognize how important film and mobile technology is in shaping the way refugees are perceived. We know there are challenges; sometimes it's also hate speech that targets the people we work with. It's very difficult to change perceptions about these situations, and film and social media can be of great help."

 

Participants from BRAC University shared their reflections, noting a shift in their perspectives on migrants by the end of the workshop. Daffodil International University's team expressed their aim to evoke empathy for refugees through their film, highlighting the emotional struggles faced by displaced individuals.

 

The ceremony concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between DIMFF and UNHCR, solidifying their partnership to continue fostering awareness and understanding through mobile filmmaking. Participants were also awarded certificates, recognizing their commitment and achievements during the workshop.

 

For more information about the Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival and upcoming events, visit https://dimff.net.