While Katara - the Cultural Village renews its commitment as cultural partner, serving as the host venue for all editions of the festival to date, Occidental Petroleum Corporation (Oxy Qatar) continues to build on its association as principal partner of the event, a support extended from the first year.
This year, Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) comes on board as signature sponsor, highlighting the value the festival adds to the country’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
The festival will be held from November 30 to December 5.
Fatma al-Remaihi, festival director and CEO of DFI, thanked the three organisations and said their patronage played an integral role in hosting an inspiring event for all participants and added to the prestige of the festival and Doha’s reputation as a cultural hub.
“In addition to hosting filmmakers and young jurors from around the world, Ajyal Youth Film Festival brings together the Qatari community to celebrate world cinema and provides an interactive platform to the region’s youth to express their opinions and share their creativity.”
Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, general manager of Katara, pointed out that the mission of Ajyal Youth Film Festival to celebrate the best in world cinema, drive the growth of a home-grown film industry and shape future talent was an ideal fit for Katara’s goal of supporting vibrant cultural events that further enhanced Qatar’s brand identity.
“Katara serves as a world-class venue for the event, and has in the past editions welcomed thousands of families throughout the festival period. This is a festival for the community and we are delighted to support it as its cultural partner.”
Andrew H Kershaw, president and general manager of Oxy Qatar, said Ajyal Youth Film Festival serves to encourage creativity among young people in the community, build international friendships and inspire the next generation.
A highlight is the Ajyal Competition with film entries in three segments evaluated by young jurors aged eight to 21 years. The festival also features Special Screenings, Cinema Under the Stars, Family Weekend activities and a Creativity Hub.
