Latest news with #AswanInternationalWomen'sFilmFestival
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. Rania Al-Mashat read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. 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See - Sada Elbalad
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
EU Ambassador: Egyptian Cinema Pioneer in Arab World... Umm Kulthum Greatest Female Icons of All Time
Taarek Refaat The European Union Ambassador to Egypt Angelina Eichhorst said that Egyptian cinema is a pioneer in the Arab world, with more than 4,000 films produced in Egypt since 1896. This came in a speech delivered by Ambassador Eichhorst at the opening ceremony of the 9th Aswan International Women's Film Festival, which was held on the banks of the Nile in the presence of Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Sobhi, Aswan Governor Ismail Kamal, Amal Ammar, Head of the National Council for Women, and a host of ambassadors, artists, and filmmakers. The EU Ambassador expressed her happiness to participate in the opening of this distinguished festival held in the enchanting land of Aswan. The Ambassador said, "From beautiful and enchanting Aswan, and on behalf of the European Union, I am honored and delighted to participate, for the first time, in the Aswan International Women's Film Festival." She praised the distinguished Egyptian artists present, as well as all the distinguished artists from the member states of the European Union and other countries, and said that for more than 100 years, cinema has been a mirror, a magical art, depicting the human being, his senses, his emotions, his experiences, and his life. Cinema makes you think, feel, and pushes you to reflect on your own experience from the perspective of what is inside the frame and what is outside it. She said that the ninth edition of the Aswan Women's Film Festival celebrates one of the greatest female icons of all time, Umm Kulthum, whom she described as "a woman of exceptional talent, insight, and tremendous influence, whose life's journey has inspired many to this day." She continued, "Thank you, Umm Kulthum, for sharing your talents with so many people through your music and art." She added that the Egyptian government supports this important festival, in cooperation with all partners, especially the National Council for Women, which believes that all women achieve and utilize their full potential. Eichhorst extended a special thanks to the Board of Trustees and the festival's management for the wonderful cooperation with the European Union. She said that after six years of partnership, 500 young men and women have learned more about filmmaking, and some of their films have competed in regional and international competitions. The Ambassador also thanked the ambassadors and representatives of the EU member states present in Aswan, saying, "We are united in peace and equality." She thanked the Governor of Aswan and the people of Aswan for their generous hospitality and warm welcome, wishing the current edition of the 9th Aswan International Women's Film Festival every success. read more CBE: Deposits in Local Currency Hit EGP 5.25 Trillion Morocco Plans to Spend $1 Billion to Mitigate Drought Effect Gov't Approves Final Version of State Ownership Policy Document Egypt's Economy Expected to Grow 5% by the end of 2022/23- Minister Qatar Agrees to Supply Germany with LNG for 15 Years Business Oil Prices Descend amid Anticipation of Additional US Strategic Petroleum Reserves Business Suez Canal Records $704 Million, Historically Highest Monthly Revenue Business Egypt's Stock Exchange Earns EGP 4.9 Billion on Tuesday Business Wheat delivery season commences on April 15 News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. Reem Ganzoury Wins Miss Arab Africa Title (VIDEO) Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple
Egypt Today
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Today
LOVE BITES by Mahmoud Zain to Premiere at Aswan International Women Film Festival
LOVE BITES is a 12-minute dramatic journey like no other, created by Egyptian filmmaker Mahmoud Zain. With its fresh narrative and bold perspective, this film offers a unique look at Egyptian storytelling. It stars famous Egyptian actor Sedky Sakhr and will have its world premiere at the Aswan International Women's Film Festival, where it proudly stands as the only Egyptian film in the official competition. The film follows two brothers, Zaher and Murad, who find themselves in conflict over how to perform the ritual washing and shrouding of their deceased sister, Hayam, after discovering love bites on her body. Fearing a scandal as well-wishers and mourners begin to arrive outside, the two brothers and their wives must make a decision that may affect the entire family. The film stars the well-known Egyptian actor Sedky Sakhr, who commented on his involvement in the film, saying, "What inspired me to be part of this film is its bold subject matter and its approach to the issue from a different perspective. Its participation in a festival dedicated to films about women is a testament to its support for women's causes, as well as the film's strong impact and high artistic value." In addition to Sedky Sakhr, the cast includes Mahmoud Zain, Sohila Alanwar, Nadia Hassan, Mahmoud Yehia, Sara Alaaeldin, and Rowan Alaa Eldin. It was shot by cinematographer Moamen Alameldin and edited by Mohamed Mamdouh. Ali Soliman was the executive producer, and the art director was Mohamed Osama Hassan. Ramy Magdy recorded the sound, with sound design and mix by Amr Soliman. The colorist was Tarek Abdelkader.
CairoScene
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Kinda Alloush to Be Honoured at Aswan Women's Film Festival in May
This year's edition also pays tribute to Umm Kulthum on the 50th anniversary of her passing. Apr 14, 2025 The Aswan International Women's Film Festival will honour acclaimed Syrian actress Kinda Alloush during its ninth edition, which runs from May 2nd to the 7th, 2025. Organisers announced that this year's edition will also pay tribute to Egyptian music legend Umm Kulthum, commemorating 50 years since her passing with a theme dedicated to her enduring cultural impact. Alloush is being recognised for her powerful performances in films that reflect the complexities of women's experiences in the Arab world. Her career includes major roles in Egyptian and Syrian cinema, such as Hatem Ali's 'Shaghaf' and Sherif Arafa's 'Welad El Am', both noted for their explorations of gender and societal dynamics. More recently, Alloush starred in Suhaib Gasmelbari's internationally acclaimed film 'Nuzuh', which won the Audience Award at the Venice International Film Festival. She also appeared in the Netflix-backed feature 'The Swimmers', directed by BAFTA-nominated Welsh-Egyptian filmmaker Sally El-Hosaini. The film was screened at major international festivals including Toronto, London, and Cairo. Her work in Egyptian cinema includes prominent roles in 'Hepta', 'Al-Fagoumi', and 'Al-Asliyeen', while on television she has featured in several popular Ramadan dramas such as 'Ekhwati' and 'Setat Beit El Maadi'. Organised with the support of Egypt's Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and Ministry of Social Solidarity, the Aswan International Women's Film Festival continues to spotlight female-driven narratives. The festival is also backed by the National Council for Women and the Aswan Governorate.
