To be eligible for registration, participants must be between eight and 25 years old and reside in Qatar.
Doha Film Institute has announced the opening of jury registrations for the 2024 Ajyal Film Festival, which will run from November 16 to 23, 2024. Young people aged eight to 25 from around the world are invited to participate in the Ajyal Jury Experience, offering an opportunity to engage with global cinema and voice their perspectives on key issues.
Aspiring jurors are invited to sign up for this annual cultural event, which brings together over 500 young participants from more than 50 countries. As part of the Ajyal Jury Experience, jurors will have the opportunity to watch a diverse selection of powerful films from around the world, engage in discussions with their peers, and interact with filmmakers and industry professionals through workshops and special sessions.
The Ajyal Jury Experience allows young people to experience the transformative impact of film within three age-specific groups. Jurors are encouraged to view cinema not just as entertainment but as a platform for promoting positive social change. The festival promotes cultural exchange, meaningful dialogue, and a deeper understanding of the world, empowering jurors to help shape the future of cinema for their generation. Their votes will determine which filmmakers receive funding for future projects, playing a significant role in influencing global cinematic narratives.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Film Institute and Director of Ajyal Film Festival, said: “Our Jury Experience is at the heart of what the Ajyal Film Festival stands for—it serves as a vital platform for young minds to explore the transformative power of storytelling. By encouraging creativity, sparking meaningful dialogue, and inspiring the next generation to dream without limitations, the programme empowers youth to raise their voices on global issues. It provides a medium where their perspectives can ignite change, foster empathy, and contribute to a more inclusive world through the art of filmmaking. With young people comprising 16% of the global population, it is essential that we recognise their agency and support them in shaping a brighter future for all.”
Ajyal Jurors are divided into three categories—Mohaq (ages 8-12), Hilal (ages 13-17) and Bader (ages 18-25). Each group will evaluate a curated selection of feature and short films suited to their age group. Being an Ajyal Juror is a creative and educational experience that nurtures a love for cinema while fostering teamwork, critical thinking, and leadership skills.
Registration for the Ajyal Jury programme is open until November 3, 2024. Participants must be between eight and 25 years old and residing in Qatar to qualify. The standard registration fee is QAR 500 ($137.36), with a discounted rate of QAR 350 ($96.15) for siblings.
