Venue: Civic House,Suva
CEO of Film Fiji;
Teachers and students;
Invited Guests;
Ladies and Gentlemen;
Bula vinaka and a very good morning to all of you.
It is indeed a pleasure for me to be here today to launch the much awaited 2017 Kula Awards.
Today is an extra special day, as we mark 12 years of the Kula Awards, which has been showcasing the best talents Fijians have – especially our younger generation.
Ladies and Gentlemen
The film industry in Fiji is buzzing with activities and its contribution to our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is increasing annually. 2016 alone has been one of the busiest year for film productions to be shot in Fiji. A total of 56 film productions were shot in Fiji. Out of this, there were 8 major productions that were budgeted at an estimated $135 million. The productions brought an estimated $43 million directly into the Fijian economy and generated $120 million in new economic activities.
Each dollar spent, has a 2.8 times multiplier effect within our economy. Furthermore, it generates employment and supports associated businesses and landowners at each designated location.
Ladies and Gentlemen
A successful program or activity will need to have a very good plan and coordination in order to efficiently achieve its desired targets and Kula Awards aims to do just that, with the generous assistance of Film Fiji. And with Film Fiji’s core role to develop and grow the audio visual industry in the country, it gives students the opportunity to learn more about and gain experience in the creative arts industry.
Therefore, as the audio visual industry is growing, we also need to provide the production companies with local talent in acting and production support.
Ladies and Gentlemen
The Kula Awards has grown from strength to strength and has become an important extra-curricular creative arts avenue for schools in Fiji. The competition has successfully grown to become an important and much awaited event in the calendar of activities for high schools around the country.
Having said that, I would therefore like to thank the Minister and the Ministry of Education for supporting the Kula Awards by approving it to be part of the extracurricular activity authorized for schools.
I have been informed that for this year, there will be 2 categories in the Kula Film Competition. One is the School’s Film Competition, while the other is the Open Category Film Competition.
For the School’s Film Competition, students in secondary schools will be invited to make a 5 minute film in any genre they choose, which will then be vetted for appropriateness by Film Fiji before the approval is given for production.
And on the other hand, there is the Open Category Film Competition, which is targeted at amateur filmmakers who have left school but wish to continue with their film making passion. In the past, entries have been received from foreign filmmakers. These films will be judged separately.
For the Kula Dance Competition, secondary schools will be invited to perform a five minute fusion of song and dance reflecting the diverse cultures of Fiji. However, the challenge is for schools to create something new and different. For this competition, schools will be awarded first, second and third prizes and also Awards for the Best Female and Male dancers and the Most Popular Dance Group.
Ladies and Gentlemen
For the Kula Art Competition, students will be invited to paint or draw based on a certain theme. Last year, over 300 entries were received from schools right around the country after which, students were shortlisted.
In following the same format last year, the finalists will attend a one-day workshop and will be given all required materials to submit a final piece of artwork for judging by a member of the panel. All submissions will be judged on originality, creativity, theme and execution.
Ladies and Gentlemen
The program, is indeed a great initiative by Film Fiji as it provides hands-on experience on what the industry is all about. In addition, not only will students be trained on world class standards in all areas of film, but on dance and art as well.
Moreover, the 2 day program which will conclude with an “Awards Nights”, will feature winners of the film, dance and art categories.
The Awards Nights, which is scheduled for the end of July, will be a production of high standard with celebrity and dignitary guest appearances.
Ladies and Gentlemen
I therefore encourage parents, members of the community and schools to get their children, their students to participate in the largest extra-curricular creative arts program in Fiji. To the students, make the most of this opportunity, as this is the opening that you need to pursue your dreams. Sign up and enjoy all that is in-store for you.
I would like to reiterate what was said by the Honorable Attorney General whilst addressing participants at the Catholic Head Teachers, Principals and Managers Conference on Saturday. There are truly a number of wonderful opportunities available for our students and this is without a doubt, one of them.
Ladies and Gentlemen
With those few words, it gives me great pleasure to now launch the 2017 Kula Awards.
Vinaka vakalevu. Thank you.