Simulizi Festival ()

Cultural norms and societal expectations sometimes discourage open dialogue and active participation among youth, particularly on issues related to governance and civic matters.

Filmmakers submitting to this category are encouraged to delve into narratives that explore the dynamic relationship between individuals and their communities, addressing issues that resonate with the core of civic engagement and participation. From tales of grassroots activism to stories of individuals mobilizing for positive change, we seek films that capture the essence of elections, democracy, and leadership.

Whether it's a documentary highlighting a community-driven initiative, a non-fictional narrative showcasing the transformative power of collective action, or an experimental piece challenging traditional notions of civic engagement, we welcome a diverse range of perspectives and storytelling approaches.

Addressing climate change is crucial for the well-being of present and future generations. Youth involvement in advocacy, sustainable practices, and environmental initiatives is vital for creating a more resilient and sustainable future. By raising awareness, advocating for policies, and adopting eco-friendly practices, the youth can contribute significantly to mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

We seek dramatic films with powerful and authentic narratives that extend beyond the confines of traditional social campaign styles. We emphasize stories that deeply resonate with the youth, compelling them to take action on climate change and environmental issues.

In the quest for authenticity, we encourage filmmakers to emphasize storytelling, character portrayal, and cinematography. We are searching for films (documentaries, shorts, and feature films) that authentically capture the voices and experiences of the communities portrayed.

According to 2019 data from the World Health Organization, 1 in every 8 people worldwide grapples with mental health issues. In Tanzania, statistics over the last five years reveal that 5 out of every 100,000 people have tragically taken their own lives due to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, anger, and drug abuse. Unfortunately, mental health remains poorly understood within African communities, persistently entangled with misguided cultural beliefs.

We seek stories from filmmakers that can shatter these social and cultural barriers, enhancing awareness and sparking crucial conversations. Whether through a documentary, feature film, or short film, we invite narratives that contribute to dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health in Africa. Your story has the power to illuminate the complexities of mental health, challenge misconceptions, and foster a more compassionate and informed dialogue within communities.

In a global landscape where economic disparities persist, the Poverty and Economic Resilience category at Simulizi Festival seeks films that unravel the stories of individuals and communities grappling with poverty and, more importantly, triumphing over adversity. We invite filmmakers to embrace this category as a canvas to portray the multifaceted aspects of economic challenges, from personal struggles to collective efforts towards building economic resilience.

Films submitted to this category are encouraged to explore the diverse dimensions of poverty, going beyond statistics to delve into the human experiences that often remain unseen. Whether through documentary storytelling, narrative fiction, or experimental cinema, we welcome films that shed light on the strength, ingenuity, and resilience displayed by individuals facing economic hardships.

Tanzania, housing a population of 12 million adolescents aged 10-19, confronts substantial sexual and reproductive health obstacles. A quarter of those between 15 and 19 have embarked on childbearing journeys, with Dar Es Salaam contributing to 12% of this statistic.
These challenges trace back to human rights issues, particularly those surrounding adolescent sexuality. The education system often falls short in providing comprehensive sexual education, and prevailing cultural norms discourage open discussions about sexuality within families and communities.

We invite filmmakers whose works carry impactful drama and possess the ability to confront issues such as gender-based and domestic violence, teenage pregnancy, menstruation, and HIV/AIDS. Through compelling narratives, we aim to shed light on these critical topics, encouraging dialogue and fostering awareness to address the sexual and reproductive health challenges faced by Tanzanian adolescents.

While efforts have been made to improve access to education in many African countries, significant challenges remain. Issues such as poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and cultural barriers can limit access to quality education, particularly in rural areas.

Digital literacy levels vary widely across Africa. While some urban areas and certain demographic groups may have relatively high levels of digital literacy, many people, especially in rural and underserved communities, lack basic digital skills needed to navigate online resources, use digital tools, or critically evaluate online information.

We need films which challenge and portray this situation whether a feature, animation, short or documentary - the choice is yours.

Historically, female filmmakers in Tanzania, like their counterparts in many other countries, have faced significant underrepresentation in the industry. This encompasses various roles such as directors, producers, cinematographers, and writers. Opportunities for women in decision-making positions within the film industry have been notably scarce. Gender stereotypes have played a pivotal role in shaping the perception of female filmmakers and influencing the types of projects they are encouraged to pursue. Biases against women assuming technical or leadership roles in film production have also been prevalent.

In recognition of these challenges, this section is dedicated to providing a platform for female filmmakers across Africa. Whether they are producers, directors, storywriters, or executive producers, this space is intended to offer them an opportunity to showcase their work and nurture their professional careers. Additionally, we warmly welcome films that authentically portray the stories of girls and women. Through this initiative, we aim to amplify the voices of female filmmakers, foster inclusivity within the industry, and contribute to the representation of diverse narratives.

This section accepts films with any themes that promote impactful filmmaking in Africa. We welcome a diverse range of narratives, from stories that shed light on pressing social issues to those that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the continent. Our aim is to provide a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and contribute to meaningful conversations surrounding African cinema. Whether your film addresses topics such as social justice, environmental sustainability, cultural identity, or human rights, we encourage you to submit your work and be a part of our community dedicated to advancing impactful storytelling in Africa.

We enthusiastically welcome films produced by young African filmmakers from college and/or secondary school. This section is specifically designed to support and nurture a new generation of filmmakers who may have limited opportunities to showcase their work. We believe in the importance of providing a platform for emerging talent to share their stories, perspectives, and creativity with a wider audience. By offering this space, we aim to empower young filmmakers, encourage their growth and development, and foster a vibrant community of aspiring storytellers in Africa. Whether you're a student filmmaker exploring your passion for cinema or a recent graduate looking to gain exposure for your work, we invite you to submit your films.