(ANS – New York) – The Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF) 2024 has reached its most dynamic phase, with screenings of shortlisted films happening simultaneously at over 320 venues across the globe. The first day of the festival kicked off in numerous locations, in many countries bringing together young voices from different parts of the world to shed light on one of the most urgent challenges of our time—environmental protection.
During this two-day festival, communities from around the world are uniting to view 120 shortlisted short films created by young people from diverse languages, cultures, and traditions. Each film is a testament to the passion of young filmmakers who strive to make a difference through their creativity, and their commitment to Mother Earth. These works were carefully chosen from 1,287 submissions from 110 countries, all embracing this year’s theme: “I Have a Dream: Youth and Climate Change – Making Mother Earth Cleaner and Greener.”
The culmination of DBGYFF 2024 is the grand finale at the Loreto Theatre, Sheen Center in New York City, this evening, Friday 18 October, where 35 winners will be declared and recognized across multiple categories. Adding to the excitement, audiences worldwide can tune in via live stream to share in the anticipation and celebration.
The suspense remains high, as winners will attend the ceremony virtually, ready to share their emotions live via Zoom after their award announcements.
The grand finale of DBGYFF 2024 will feature a remarkable gathering of distinguished figures from various fields, reflecting the festival’s global significance. Among the prominent guests will be Fr. Hugo Orozco, SDB, the General Councillor for Inter America, representing the leadership of the Salesian Congregation. Also gracing the event is climate activist Ms. Christine Arena, whose advocacy for environmental accountability aligns with the festival’s mission. She will be present virtually to share her message. Dr. Natasa Govekar, the Vatican representative from the Dicastery for Communication, will also attend, underscoring the moral and spiritual dimensions of environmental stewardship.
Adding further prestige to the occasion, Fr. Dominic Tran, SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province of St. Philip the Apostle, USA East, will be present, alongside Fr. Michael Conway, Director of Salesian Missions in New Rochelle, New York. They will be joined by Fr. Roland Minsta, SDB, Provincial of the Vice Province of Equatorial Tropical Africa (ATE), and Mr. Jude Elie, President of the Past Pupils of Don Bosco – Haiti, reflecting the international and multicultural scope of the event.
Completing the roster of distinguished guests is Mr. Jeremy Earnest, a South Indian-American composer and multi-instrumentalist from Hollywood, LA, and Fr. Ricardo Campoli, a key member of the Department of Social Communications in Rome. Their combined presence highlights the powerful convergence of creativity, faith, and environmental advocacy that defines DBGYFF 2024.
The evening program promises a mix of film screenings, featuring the best 40 films, and the eagerly awaited announcement of winners. Audiences around the world will witness the extraordinary creativity behind the films and hear from the young talents advocating for environmental change. It’s sure to be an unforgettable event.
DBGYFF 2024 is much more than a film festival; it’s a global platform for young filmmakers to voice their concerns, hopes, and dreams for a sustainable future. These screenings offer a unique opportunity for communities everywhere to connect with the urgent cause of climate action through the lens of youth creativity. As today’s screenings continue across the globe, the festival has become a symbol of unity and shared commitment to protecting our environment.
The DBGYFF Grand finale represents the collective power of young voices coming together for a shared cause—taking action to protect and heal our planet.
Source: ANS – “Agencia iNfo Salesiana”