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• The ‘Health in Focus Filmmaking Workshop’ will explore films limitless possibilities to create meaningful content that inspires creativity
• Opening new avenues to creative development, workshop to deliver two documentary and two short fiction films by youth participants

May 23, 2023, Doha: The Doha Film Institute (DFI) and Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health have partnered to deliver a filmmaking workshop for the youth, focused on health themes. Ten participants, aged 18 to 25, will participate in the workshop to produce two documentaries and two short fiction films through practical exercises.

During the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to work individually on their projects and film at various locations throughout Doha. Completed films will also get the chance to be screened at DFI’s annual Ajyal Film Festival.

Through practical and exciting exercises, participants will learn the fundamental techniques required to develop and produce a short film—from basic narrative development to visual storytelling. Lebanese filmmaker Corine Shawi will provide hands-on mentorship during the workshop that offers a comprehensive introduction to the essential tools of filmmaking.

Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Office of the Doha Film Institute, said: “We are truly honoured to partner with Qatar’s Ministry of Public Health on this rewarding initiative that encourages emerging talent to build skills in one of the most effective tools for public awareness. Empowering the youth of Qatar is central to DFI’s mission, and this workshop is a remarkable opportunity for the participants to exercise and showcase their creative abilities with narratives that will contribute to greater awareness of healthcare challenges in an innovative manner. Our aim is to inspire the next generation and add value to the learning experience by providing alternate avenues for productive expression.”

Dr. Salih Almarri, Assistant Minister for Health Affairs, stated “the collaboration between the Ministry of Public Health and the Doha Film Institute provides a platform to raise awareness about vital health issues and promote positive behavioral change in our communities through the art of storytelling. We are confident that the program’s practical approach and the mentorship of experienced filmmakers will equip the participants with the essential tools required to develop and produce compelling films that can drive meaningful social impact. We eagerly anticipate the showcase of these films at the prestigious Ajyal Film Festival and believe that they will inspire and inform audiences on health-related matters.”

Corine Shawi’s passion for filmmaking started with her first long documentary, ‘Les Femmes Bonnes’, at the age of 20. Over time, her interest in exploring various themes related to complex human connections and relationships grew. She directed several short documentaries, each exploring different themes. Her latest long documentary, ‘Perhaps What I Fear Does Not Exist’ (2022), was a four-year journey to find absolution for a broken family by helping her father walk again. The film premiered at the Dok Leipzig international competition and other festivals.

As a regional hub for education and community, the Doha Film Institute aims to partner with national organisations and governmental entities to empower the next generation, promote an environment of creativity and dialogue, and make learning accessible through the power of film. The Institute has an ongoing calendar of educational workshops and training programmes that enable young filmmakers to pursue careers in filmmaking as well as enhance their knowledge and understanding of the latest trends and skills in cinema.