Amman: The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the French Institute in Jordan, in partnership with the Embassy of France and the Royal Film Commission, hosted a special screening of short films created by young people from Za'atari refugee camp at the Rainbow Theatre in Amman. The screening featured three short documentaries TukTuk, Amal, and Small Worlds produced by 14 young participants of the "Future Filmmakers" workshop under the Za'atari Cinema Project.
According to Jordan News Agency, during the event, the filmmakers engaged with the audience, sharing insights into their creative process and personal experiences behind the films. "These films are powerful expressions of resilience and hope," said Marc Rubin, UNICEF Representative to Jordan. He emphasized that initiatives like these help young people from Za'atari camp develop technical skills while also finding their voice and sharing their stories with the world.
At the Royal Film Commission, Director Mohanad Al-Bakri expressed that supporting cinematic voices in communities such as the Za'atari refugee camp is crucial. He noted that the project is not only about skill development but also about empowering individuals to express their perspectives and connect with the world through film. Al-Bakri praised the young filmmakers for their honesty and strength in storytelling.
The event emphasized the importance of sustained investment in programs that equip young people, including those in refugee settings, with essential skills and platforms. Frank Gellet, Ambassador of France to Jordan, highlighted that the three short films resulted from weeks of rigorous training designed by the renowned French film school, La Cin©Fabrique. He noted that the funding from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs has fostered professional opportunities and provided a unique creative platform for the Za'atari community.
The workshops were part of the Cinema Za'atari project, which reopened in 2024 in the Za'atari Syrian refugee camp. Through this initiative, children and young people have been able to experience cinema and engage in arts and cultural activities, helping to build confidence, foster self-expression, and open pathways for future opportunities in storytelling and beyond.