Film Fiji Board Director,
Film Fiji Acting CEO,
Members of the Media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Bula Vinaka and a very good morning to you all.
In June, this year we had announced the “Mobile Movie Competition” to replace the 2020 Kula Awards. Today, 3 months later, it gives me great pleasure to announce the winners of this very competition.
The Competition has enabled budding young film-makers to use their mobile phones to produce short videos. These videos were produced following the COVID safe procedures, that is, practicing social distancing and other measures as directed by the Ministry of Health.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Now more than ever, we must empower budding film-makers to become agile participants in economic activities. By investing in our young film-makers, we are contributing to their capability to succeed. We are giving them a starting point in making a difference in society, and introducing a sense of independence and distinctiveness.
The Mobile Movie Competition received a total of 46 registrations for 2 categories, Budding (below 18 years) and Professional (above 18 years).
Through the “Mobile Movie Competition”, we want to keep the Kula Awards momentum alive. The Competition became an alternative avenue to encourage the young and inexperienced film makers to utilise their creativity in an innovative manner.
At the same time, the work of the professional participants, gives confidence to these younger Fijians that there is a future in this industry. And that they can also break new grounds, as film-makers.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Whilst the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted the global and national economy and our daily lives, it has also become a driver of creativity and invention.
We have seen creativity in the submissions received in various genres. I am told, the themes stretched from COVID-19, Love our Locals, Fijian Made, horror, comedy, social issues, tourism and even the life of bees and the process of making honey.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As a Government determined to provide economic access and digital access to all Fijians, we have set the direction for economic prosperity. We are empowering young Fijians with digital skills, expertise and applied experience in film-making, not only through these competitions, but also through the opportunity to work with international and domestic productions.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Earlier last month, we announced the successful premier of the 10 episode of the “World’s Toughest Race” – Eco challenge Fiji, which emphasises that Fiji is capable of hosting major international productions.
Given that we are no stranger to reality TV series being filmed here, I wish to reiterate, the importance of continuity in providing a platform to our film-makers to sharpen their talent, as this would encourage and strengthen the growth of our film industry
The film industry has contributed significantly to the Fijian economy as last year alone saw film productions spend an estimated $138.5m directly into the Fijian economy and employment creation for over 2,700 Fijians.
Despite the challenging times the world is going through, we must continue to give our film-makers an avenue to express their creativity and refine their craft.
At this juncture, I would like to state that this competition has been a collective effort, of the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Tourism Fiji and Film Fiji. The Ministry and Tourism Fiji have sponsored prizes that advocate the Fijian brand, whether through the “Fijian Made-Buy Fijian” campaign or “Love our Locals”.
I wish to once again congratulate our winners and wish them the very best in their accomplishments. Thank you and Vinaka Vakalevu