About Focus On Ability Short Film Festival
The Focus on Ability Short Film Festival is aimed at raising awareness of the abilities of people with a disability.
NOVA Employment is the major sponsor.
Focus On Ability Short Film Festival Description
For the 9th consecutive year NOVA Employment is running the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival. The competition is aimed at raising awareness of the abilities of people with a disability.
This year we aim it to be the biggest yet with all films entered to really showcase extremely talented people with disabilities. With over $140, 000 worth of cash and prizes to be won this is a highly contested competition.
The theme for the competition asks film makers to 'Focus on the Ability' of people with a disability.
In 2009, CEO of NOVA Employment Martin Wren started with three ingredients:
- An inviolate belief in the ability of people with a disability
- A big idea
- A committed team of staff
In 2016 196 films were entered and the winners shared in over $140, 000 in prizes.
One of the four judges, Award-winning Director Di Drew, commented, "The standard of films was exceptional. We watched many humbling stories of inspiration. I see things differently after seeing these films. "
Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka said the NSW Government is proud to support this wonderful initiative that highlights the creativity and ability of people with disability through films. "I would like to congratulate the winners of this year's "Focus on Ability Short Films Competition and thank all the participants for promoting inclusion and raising awareness that disability is not a barrier. Though your films, you have all touched our hearts, " said Mr Ajaka.
The competition culminates in an awards night held in Sydney with 2017 dates set to be announced. Entrants will have the chance to feel like Scorsese and see their films premiered on the big screen as well as the chance to have their film shown on national television.
Films will be both judged by a professional judging panel and put through an online voting process, with separate prizes for each category.