The youth participants of ‘Film for Change’ will undergo a training component and a post-production component with industry experts where trainees in groups will produce five short films under the main theme inspired by the Sustainable Development Goal: Climate Action (SDG-13). The films will then be screened via social media and other public platforms to be followed by dialogue. Additionally, the films also have the potential of being showcased on platforms for youth advocacy on climate change at local, regional, and global levels.
An Inauguration Ceremony was held at Salt Café’ and Restaurant where officials from Dhiraagu and UNDP commenced ‘Film for Change: Climate Edition’ followed by a 10-day film-making theory workshop conducted by industry experts. Introduced at 2017, this year’s series is focused on empowering young people to explore and form narratives on issues of climate change in Maldives through the medium of film. The platform provides them with the necessary technical and creative skills on producing documentary-style short films using accessible devices such as mobile phones and tablets.
Speaking at the ceremony, Corporate Social Responsibility’s Manager at Dhiraagu, Bishaara Hameed encouraged young people to think, explore and reflect on key issues related to climate action. Following up the Deputy Resident Representative at UNDP, Vera Hakim thanked Dhiraagu for their continued partnership on such initiatives like such as the ‘Film for Change: Climate Edition’. She also highlighted the commitment UNDP is giving towards empowering youth to bring out their voices on issues such as climate change and give them a platform to play the catalytic role in delivering fresh new ideas and solutions, in spreading awareness and transforming behaviors.