Twenty groups of participants from various universities, narrowed down from 100 applicants gathered at IndependentUniversity Bangladesh (IUB) to pitch their video presentations highlighting development, on October 1.
The idea behind this initiative was to provide the youth with an opportunity to thrive and contribute in this particular field. “I wanted to provide a platform for passionate young filmmakers from various universities to showcase their talent and prove their mettle,” said Zarin Zeba Khan, Communication Advisor, SNV Netherland Development Organisation and Adjunct Faculty, Independent University of Bangladesh.
“We welcomed young filmmakers with a vision to create their very own short documentary. The program was designed in a unique way, so that it enables students to be involved from the beginning to end. The students played their roles in designing marketing materials and event promotions.”
The pitching session followed an interactive 3 day workshop on the development sector, assisted by Asif Yeasin Kabir, Project Coordinator of Enliven, and the event's technical partner.
The illustrious panel of judges were made up of Manzarehassin Murad, Film Analyst, Asif Abedin, Cinematographer, Syed Ishtiaque Reza, Director of News, Ekkator Television, Rajeev Munankam, Senior Advisor and Team Leader, FSM, SNV, Farhtheeba Rahat Khan, Team Leader, Working with Women Project, Netherland Development Organization, SNV and Jamal Uddin, Inclusive Business Capacity Building Advisor, SNV
Dr. Sarwar Ahmed, Dean, School of Business, IUB showed particular interest in this initiative. Among the others who supported this event and provided assistance were Dr. GM Shahidul Alam (Head of Media and Communication Department, IUB), Mr. Md Rajib Rahman (Senior Lecturer, IUB), Mr. Suman Saha (Lecturer, IUB), Mr. Md Nazmul (Program Manager, BBA, IUB) and Mr Tawseef Ahmed Mullick (Program Manager, IUB).
Amongst the judges was Adnan Kabir, who recently won a prestigious production fund for his film from Bengal Foundation’s “Young Filmmakers Initiative” provided technical assistance.
Some of the highlights that the participants will be able to take away from this project are the abilities to build bridges between students and professionals by creating a network with corporate veterans. This will aid in their preparation and grooming for employment after graduation. The material collected from the entries will be promoted on an international level and be used in various development proposals. Additionally, this program will also offer two students paid internships with SNV - working with an international organisation in the development sector of Bangladesh will surely give them valuable experience. The sector, in return, will benefit by receiving fresh ideas from the youth.
