Kula Film Awards return to foster young creative talent in Fiji

The return of the Kula Film Awards after a seven-year absence is more than just a showcase of young talent; it's a vital pathway into Fiji's creative industry, according to Film Fiji Board Chair Culden Kamea.

This year's competition saw 35 student films submitted, with 15 making it to the finals. Kamea highlighted the awards' potential for growth, announcing plans to expand the competition to Fiji's various divisions next year. This expansion aims to give more schools across the country an opportunity to participate and engage with the film industry.

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We want to go out to the divisions… it’ll get much bigger very quickly. We’re going to have regional competitions so that we can really promote the industry to school children out there who may not be accountants or lawyers or rugby players, but can express themselves through this industry.

Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who officiated at the awards, praised the films for their strong creativity and their exploration of relevant issues such as cybercrime, bullying, and other youth concerns. He commended the professional quality of the filmmaking, stating that Fiji's future is in capable hands.

The awards ceremony concluded on Saturday at USP's Laucala Campus. Organizers are enthusiastic about the competition's future, with ambitions to significantly broaden its reach and impact in the coming years.

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It’s very awesome to see the talent and the creativity and even the camera work is very professional… Fiji’s future is in good hands.