Latest news with #AIWFF
Daily News Egypt
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily News Egypt
Spanish director Anna Petrus joins 9th Aswan International Women's Film Festival
The 9th edition of the prestigious Aswan International Women's Film Festival (AIWFF) is currently underway in the vibrant city of Aswan, southern Egypt, captivating audiences with a rich program that celebrates women in cinema. Running from May 2 to 7, the festival features a diverse lineup of screenings, workshops, and discussions. This year, Spain has a notable presence, including participation from acclaimed filmmaker and scholar Anna Petrus. Spain is represented in the official short film competition by Red Snow, an evocative animated short co-directed by Aurelia Gil Junco and Susana Olmedo. The film tells a haunting yet tender story of a young girl and a vampire who live in a forest village. When a forgotten memory resurfaces, their bond is tested, changing the course of their lives. With its atmospheric visuals and emotional depth, Red Snow has already won Best Animated Short Film at the New Jersey Film Festival in October 2023, and its selection for AIWFF further confirms its growing international acclaim. Adding to the Spanish contribution, renowned filmmaker, film critic, and cultural researcher Anna Petrus serves as a jury member for the Euro-Mediterranean Competition. Born in Menorca in 1978, Petrus has been based in Barcelona since 1996 and is known for her wide-ranging work across video art, experimental cinema, documentaries, and fiction. Her multifaceted approach to filmmaking blends visual innovation with sharp cultural commentary. Over the years, Petrus's films have been featured at leading international festivals including Cannes, Sitges, and Gijón. Her filmography includes critically praised titles such as Bohemia (2018), Anniversary (2013), Trumpet (2011), 345 Seconds of My Trip to New York (2010), and Oblivion in Oil (2009). Each work reflects her commitment to visual experimentation and storytelling that delves into both personal and collective experiences. Launched in 2017, the Aswan International Women's Film Festival is the first annual Egyptian festival dedicated to highlighting cinematic works about women and by female filmmakers. It has rapidly grown into a vital platform for showcasing women's contributions to cinema, not only in Egypt but across the Middle East and North Africa. Beyond the screen, AIWFF also invests in future generations through specialized workshops for young people in the region. These educational programs are designed to develop practical filmmaking skills and foster creative expression, guided by experienced professionals from the global film industry. The participation of Anna Petrus and the screening of Red Snow underscore the festival's commitment to embracing diverse and compelling stories from around the world. With a mission rooted in empowerment, education, and artistic excellence, AIWFF continues to build a vibrant, inclusive space for women in cinema—and for audiences eager to explore their stories.
See - Sada Elbalad
05-05-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Al-Mashat: Empowering Women and Enhancing Their Role Is a Top Priority for the State
Nada Mustafa Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, participated in the activities of the 9th edition of the Aswan International Women's Film Festival (AIWFF), which was held in Aswan Governorate. The festival was attended by Ambassador Angelina Eichhorst, the European Union Ambassador to Egypt, Major General Ismail Kamal, Governor of Aswan, a number of ambassadors, artists, and civil society organizations. In her speech, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat emphasized that the festival represents a unique celebration of women's voices, artistic creativity, and cultural leadership. The Minister commended its role as a driver of women's empowerment efforts, being the first film festival in Egypt dedicated to shedding light on women's issues and honoring their success stories, in addition to its support for female filmmakers in Egypt and the Arab region. H.E. Minister Al-Mashat pointed out the importance of the specialized training workshops organized by the festival, led by a selection of the most prominent professionals in the industry. These workshops contribute to opening new horizons for young people and equipping them with the necessary skills for filmmaking, which enhances Aswan's role as a vibrant cultural center that reflects Egyptian identity. In the same context, H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat reiterated that the festival embodies the state's commitment to achieving gender equality and comprehensive development, in line with Egypt's Vision 2030, which places the cultural, social, and economic empowerment of women at the heart of its priorities. This is also aligned with the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Egyptian Women 2030, approved by H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, which is based on four main pillars: political empowerment, economic empowerment, social empowerment, and protection. H.E. Minister Al-Mashat also highlighted the National Human Rights Strategy, launched in 2021, and its role in promoting the principles of equality and non-discrimination, ensuring women's full participation in public life, and addressing gender-based violence. H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat added that through partnership with the United Nations system, and under the umbrella of the Strategic Partnership Cooperation Framework between Egypt and the United Nations 2023-2027, Egypt is working to expand women's access to education, decent work, leadership positions, and protection from violence. The Minister noted the progress made in the field of empowerment, pointing out that Egyptian women currently occupy 25% of the seats in Parliament and hold four ministerial portfolios, in addition to the initiatives being implemented, such as the "Closing the Gender Gap Accelerator" in cooperation with the World Economic Forum, which brings together more than 100 companies to support women's economic participation. H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat reviewed the Ministry's efforts in providing development financing that takes gender issues into account in the education, health, and small enterprise development sectors, alongside a number of qualitative initiatives such as "Hayah Karima," "EU-Tamken," and the "Safe Work Environment for Women in the Tourism Sector" project in collaboration with the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation, and supporting education reform in partnership with the World Bank. H.E. Minister Al-Mashat concluded her speech by affirming that storytelling is the essence of cultural and societal change. She praised the role of the Aswan Festival in giving women a space for expression, promoting creativity, and redefining concepts of leadership and artistic excellence. Within the framework of the festival's activities, a delegation from the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, the European Union, and a number of relevant entities visited the Kom Ombo electricity production station in Aswan, the "Dawi" camp at the Aswan Secondary School, in addition to the "Drinking Water Management" program, as well as a field visit to small and micro enterprises funded by the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency in cooperation with the French Development Agency. 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The Star
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Aswan int'l women film festival spotlights gender issues through cinema
ASWAN, Egypt, May 4 (Xinhua) -- The 9th Aswan International Women Film Festival (AIWFF) reinforced its focus on gender equality and women's empowerment during its latest edition, screening 72 films from around 30 countries alongside panels addressing social challenges faced by women globally, organizers said. Held under the patronage of Egypt's ministries of culture and tourism, the festival, which ran from May 2 to 7, included public discussions on topics such as institutional support for women's rights and the history of Egyptian women in visual arts. It also launched the "Nut Forum for Women's Issues," featuring short films and debates on female genital mutilation, child marriage, and gender-based violence under the initiative "Stars for Change." "The festival uses cinema to amplify women's struggles not just in Egypt but worldwide. The Nut Forum brings specialists and artists together to address real challenges," festival director Hassan Abu Al-Ela told reporters. He highlighted expanded public outreach this year, including screenings and discussions in Aswan's main square and public library, aimed at engaging audiences who rarely visit traditional cinemas. Competitions showcased 10 feature films and 20 shorts from countries, including Nigeria, the UAE, Switzerland, and Argentina, with themes centered on women's social and political realities. Egyptian actress Dalia El Behery, a feature film jury member, praised the lineup's diversity: "The selection is strong and impressively varied, reflecting truly global perspectives." Supported by the National Council for Women, UN Women, and the European Union, the festival emphasized cinema's role as a tool for social advocacy. Organizers said the blend of art and activism drew broader public participation this year, aligning with Egypt's efforts to position itself as a regional hub for cultural diplomacy.
Egypt Today
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Today
To the Timeless Voice of Umm Kulthum, the 9th Aswan International Women Film Festival Kicks Off with Honors to Lebleba and Kinda Alloush
Set against the enchanting voice of the legendary Kawkab El Sharq Umm Kulthum, the 9th edition of the Aswan International Women Film Festival (AIWFF) launched on the evening of Friday, May 2nd. This year's edition pays tribute to the iconic singer, marking 50 years since her passing, and celebrates her enduring legacy not only as a voice but as a cinematic figure who addressed women's issues through film. TV presenter Jasmine Taha Zaki opened the ceremony, unveiling several surprises for this edition — including the launch of a 'Films of the South' competition and events taking place across Aswan in public libraries, gardens, and open-air venues with music, circus performances, and public talks. Jasmine noted that Umm Kulthum is honored not just for her music, but also for her pioneering work in cinema portraying women's stories. This year, the festival features 72 films from 34 countries and hosts competitions for feature films, shorts, impact films, EU films, Aswan workshop films, and the new Southern Cinema segment. Actress Dalia El Behairy delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing pride in attending the festival in the majestic city of Aswan — a place where women have held stature from Pharaonic times to the present. She emphasized the importance of cinema in empowering women and urged for a more just and equal world. Festival Director Hassan Abu El-Ala described this year's edition as a deeply special one, carrying the name of the Arab world's greatest artist. He highlighted how the festival extends into the streets and public spaces of Aswan and thanked the Ministry of Culture, Aswan Governorate, the Ministry of Tourism, EgyptAir, the National Council for Women, the EU, UN Women, and others for their support. Dr. Azza Kamel, Vice Chair of the Festival's Board of Trustees and Head of the NUT Forum for Women's Issues, called this edition 'exceptional' for bearing Umm Kulthum's name. 'She was the voice, the power, and the unifier of the Arab world — a symbol of resilience, courage, and resistance,' said Kamel. She dedicated this edition to every creative woman rewriting the narrative about gender and justice. Festival President Mohamed Abdel Khaleq described the 9th edition as a prelude to an even more expansive 10th edition, emphasizing the mission to make cinema accessible to all. Ambassador Dr. Mervat Tallawy, Chair of the Board of Trustees, praised the festival's alignment with the national agenda to empower women and stressed cinema's role in shifting awareness. She also honored the resilience of Gazan women and children through the symbolic presence of their stories. Judge Amal Ammar of the National Council for Women highlighted art as more than entertainment — a powerful bridge between cultures. She praised Umm Kulthum as a lasting national icon and urged guests to enjoy the rich cinematic and musical program. Angelina Eichhorst, Head of the EU Delegation to Egypt and the Arab World, expressed joy at attending the opening in Aswan. She spoke about the EU's commitment to supporting women, cinema, and nature, and called Umm Kulthum an icon who represented Arab culture worldwide. Governor Ismail Kamal welcomed the attendees, affirming the central role of women in Aswan's society. Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Ashraf Sobhy highlighted Aswan's heritage and Egyptian cinema's enduring legacy, underlining Egypt's dedication to empowering both women and youth. The festival honored Syrian actress Kinda Alloush for her rich portrayals of women, to which she responded with heartfelt thanks, saying she considers Egypt her second home and is always enchanted by Aswan's beauty. Dutch filmmaker Elisabeth Francke was also honored for her impactful documentaries. She expressed gratitude for being part of the festival, praised the global power of film to inspire change, and raised a Palestinian scarf in solidarity with Palestine. The festival also paid tribute to Egyptian star Lebleba, who voiced pride in receiving an award during a festival named after Umm Kulthum. Having starred in 97 films, she emphasized her lifelong commitment to delivering meaningful messages through her work and thanked the people of Aswan for their warm welcome. In a recorded message, Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, affirmed the role of art in awakening consciousness, calling for cinema that deepens national belonging and supports women's causes. To the Timeless Voice of Umm Kulthum, the 9th Aswan International Women Film Festival Kicks Off with Honors to Lebleba and Kinda Alloush Set against the enchanting voice of the legendary Kawkab El Sharq Umm Kulthum, the 9th edition of the Aswan International Women Film Festival (AIWFF) launched on the evening of Friday, May 2nd. This year's edition pays tribute to the iconic singer, marking 50 years since her passing, and celebrates her enduring legacy not only as a voice but as a cinematic figure who addressed women's issues through film. TV presenter Jasmine Taha Zaki opened the ceremony, unveiling several surprises for this edition — including the launch of a 'Films of the South' competition and events taking place across Aswan in public libraries, gardens, and open-air venues with music, circus performances, and public talks. Jasmine noted that Umm Kulthum is honored not just for her music, but also for her pioneering work in cinema portraying women's stories. This year, the festival features 72 films from 34 countries and hosts competitions for feature films, shorts, impact films, EU films, Aswan workshop films, and the new Southern Cinema segment. Actress Dalia El Behairy delivered a heartfelt speech, expressing pride in attending the festival in the majestic city of Aswan — a place where women have held stature from Pharaonic times to the present. She emphasized the importance of cinema in empowering women and urged for a more just and equal world. Festival Director Hassan Abu El-Ala described this year's edition as a deeply special one, carrying the name of the Arab world's greatest artist. He highlighted how the festival extends into the streets and public spaces of Aswan and thanked the Ministry of Culture, Aswan Governorate, the Ministry of Tourism, EgyptAir, the National Council for Women, the EU, UN Women, and others for their support. Dr. Azza Kamel, Vice Chair of the Festival's Board of Trustees and Head of the NUT Forum for Women's Issues, called this edition 'exceptional' for bearing Umm Kulthum's name. 'She was the voice, the power, and the unifier of the Arab world — a symbol of resilience, courage, and resistance,' said Kamel. She dedicated this edition to every creative woman rewriting the narrative about gender and justice. Festival President Mohamed Abdel Khaleq described the 9th edition as a prelude to an even more expansive 10th edition, emphasizing the mission to make cinema accessible to all. Ambassador Dr. Mervat Tallawy, Chair of the Board of Trustees, praised the festival's alignment with the national agenda to empower women and stressed cinema's role in shifting awareness. She also honored the resilience of Gazan women and children through the symbolic presence of their stories. Judge Amal Ammar of the National Council for Women highlighted art as more than entertainment — a powerful bridge between cultures. She praised Umm Kulthum as a lasting national icon and urged guests to enjoy the rich cinematic and musical program. Angelina Eichhorst, Head of the EU Delegation to Egypt and the Arab World, expressed joy at attending the opening in Aswan. She spoke about the EU's commitment to supporting women, cinema, and nature, and called Umm Kulthum an icon who represented Arab culture worldwide. Governor Ismail Kamal welcomed the attendees, affirming the central role of women in Aswan's society. Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Ashraf Sobhy highlighted Aswan's heritage and Egyptian cinema's enduring legacy, underlining Egypt's dedication to empowering both women and youth. The festival honored Syrian actress Kinda Alloush for her rich portrayals of women, to which she responded with heartfelt thanks, saying she considers Egypt her second home and is always enchanted by Aswan's beauty. Dutch filmmaker Elisabeth Francke was also honored for her impactful documentaries. She expressed gratitude for being part of the festival, praised the global power of film to inspire change, and raised a Palestinian scarf in solidarity with Palestine. The festival also paid tribute to Egyptian star Lebleba, who voiced pride in receiving an award during a festival named after Umm Kulthum. Having starred in 97 films, she emphasized her lifelong commitment to delivering meaningful messages through her work and thanked the people of Aswan for their warm welcome. In a recorded message, Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, affirmed the role of art in awakening consciousness, calling for cinema that deepens national belonging and supports women's causes. ⸻
The Star
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
9th Aswan int'l women film festival opens in Egypt
ASWAN, Egypt, May 2 (Xinhua) -- The ninth edition of the Aswan International Women Film Festival (AIWFF) opened here Friday evening with a red-carpet ceremony. The annual event, attended by dozens of Egyptian and foreign artists, filmmakers and critics, sheds light on women's causes and rights through filmmaking. This year's festival, running until May 7, has attracted 55 films from over 30 countries to rival in various competition sections, besides six British films screened as part of a special program. This edition, patronized by Egypt's ministries of culture and tourism and supported by local and international organizations, is also dedicated to iconic Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum on the 50th anniversary of her passing. "The AIWFF attracts audiences and attendees interested in women's issues from Egypt and beyond, as well as international organizations such as the United Nations and the European Union. This interest increases year after year," Mohamed Abdel-Khalek, president and founder of AIWFF, told Xinhua.
