HiHFAD’s Short Film Officially Selected and Certified by WHO’s 5th Health for All Film Festival
Celebrating Global Recognition
We are thrilled to announce that Hand in Hand for Aid and Development’s short film, “Surviving Amid Crises and Disasters,” has been officially selected for the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 5th Health for All Film Festival (HAFF) in 2024. This prestigious recognition highlights our commitment to bringing critical humanitarian issues to the forefront and advocating for those affected by crises and disasters.
A Heartfelt Thank You from WHO
In a heartfelt message from the WHO, we were thanked for our participation and informed about the selection of our film among the top entries from over 1,000 submissions worldwide. The Director-General of WHO Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has signed a certificate of recognition, which we are proud to share as a testament to our dedication and the impact of our work. The WHO will continue to promote our film through their YouTube playlists, allowing a wider audience to witness the urgent needs and the swift humanitarian response depicted in our film.
Our film’s selection as a finalist in the HAFF, specifically in the Short Film category (1-3 minutes), is a significant achievement. This selection places our work among the top entries submitted by institutions, individuals, and content creators globally. We are honored to have our film included in WHO’s internal catalogue, where it will be available for various WHO offices to use in health education and promotion events.
About the Film: Surviving Amid Crises and Disasters
“Surviving Amid Crises and Disasters” centers around the harrowing experience of a person affected by the earthquake that struck Türkiye and Syria. The film brings to light the immediate humanitarian response within the healthcare sector and underscores the urgent requirements and dire consequences that followed the disaster. By focusing on this individual’s story, the film raises awareness about the broader impact on thousands of lives, including those with disabilities, and honors the memory of those who perished due to insufficient medical and logistical resources.
Teacher Ahmad’s Story
One of the poignant stories captured in our film is that of Ahmad, a teacher who lived through the earthquake in Jindires, northwestern Syria. Ahmad recounts the moments of terror he and his family and students faced during the disaster and the ongoing struggles of displacement a year later. His story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the continuing need for support and resources to aid those affected by such crises.
We are encouraged by this recognition and remain committed to producing impactful content that highlights critical health and humanitarian issues. We look forward to participating in future editions of the HAFF and continuing to share stories that need to be told. For more details about the HAFF and to watch our film, please visit the WHO’s official selection and awards page here.
