RIYADH: The Red Sea Film Foundation, in collaboration with the Consulate General of France in Jeddah, has announced the winners of the fourth 48-Hour Film Challenge at a ceremony held at Hayy Jameel in Jeddah.

The event was attended by Red Sea Film Foundation Managing Director Shivani Malhotra Pandya and Acting CEO Mohammed Al-Asiri, and French Consul General Mohammed Nehad. 

The challenge, aimed at encouraging emerging talents to innovate and present fresh perspectives in their cinematic projects, was organized in partnership with the Consulate General of France in Jeddah, the Embassy of France in Riyadh, and the Alliance Francaise, according to the foundation.

The ceremony honored the two winning teams: “AFEN,” led by Nawaf Al-Kanani, and “All in One Night (AION),” led by Rawan Al-Ghamdi. 

Both teams will have the opportunity to screen their films at the Red Sea International Film Festival 2024 and will participate in an artist residency program at one of France’s leading film schools in 2025.

The challenge took place from July 26-27, during which participants were tasked with writing, shooting and editing a short film in just 48 hours. 

Prior to the challenge, participants attended two days of intensive workshops and professional mentorship led by industry experts. These included a directing workshop led by filmmaker Faris Godus, a screenwriting and editing workshop by director and screenwriter Amjad Al-Rasheed, and a production workshop conducted by producer Deema Azar.

Three intensive professional days were organized for the 15 short-listed teams by the French Consulate in partnership with the foundation and Art Jameel on Sept. 17, 18 and 19. 

The two winners were selected based on high artistic standards by a jury composed of filmmakers and industry professionals, including Egyptian actor Ahmed Malek and Saudi actress Sarah Taibah. 

The jury praised the winning films, highlighting them as promising cinematic works that reflected the talents and potential of Saudi and local filmmakers in the industry.

Pandya said: “The foundation remains a driving force in championing the next generation of filmmakers. We have seen past winners go on to achieve great success in the industry, and we are proud to have been part of that journey. Also, the opportunity for winners to showcase their films at our festival in December provides unparalleled exposure, giving their work a platform that truly sets them apart.”

Al-Asiri congratulated the winners, saying: “This challenge highlights the incredible talent and potential of emerging Saudi filmmakers. At the Red Sea Film Foundation, we are committed to nurturing and empowering these creatives, and we eagerly anticipate the impact their future projects will have on both the local and international film landscapes.” 

Nehad said: “This project illustrates the excellence of the relationship between both countries and illustrates a successful cooperation in supporting the young talents in cinema. France, with its long experience in cinema, and Saudi Arabia, with this wonderful dynamism, have a lot to share. Among numerous common projects in the bilateral cooperation, cinema is one of the top priorities and will go on during the Red Sea Film Festival.”

JEDDAH: The first female fencer has been appointed as Saudi Arabia’s student sports ambassador to the International University Sport Federation.

The appointment of Ruba Mohammed Al-Masri to the role highlights the Kingdom’s empowerment of female athletes in recent years.

The FISU Student Ambassador program aims to promote the development of university sports and support sporting volunteer programs in ambassadors’ home countries.

Al-Masri told Arab News: “I consider this historic achievement for Saudi sports as a true turning point. It fills me with pride and honor. This success is not just an individual accomplishment; it reflects the tremendous efforts being made by the Kingdom to support women’s sports and empower youth. Seeing a Saudi girl shine on the international stage represents a dream come true, and it opens new doors for young talents.”

Princess Reema bint Bandar, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the US, highlighted Al-Masri’s achievement as an example of the Kingdom’s dedication to advancing women in sports.

She posted on X: “Women’s fencing in Saudi Arabia has made great strides from 2016 when Lubna Al-Omair competed in the Olympic Games in Rio to today with athletes like Ruba.”

https://x.com/rbalsaud/status/1835840617261252823

The acknowledgement from Princess Reema was an emotional milestone for Al-Masri. She said: “It felt like a validation of all the hard work, dedication and sacrifices I had made throughout my journey as a female athlete.

“Her support and recognition not only inspired me but also underscored the importance of empowering women in sports. Knowing that such a prominent figure believes in my potential is a tremendous honor and a powerful encouragement to keep pushing forward.”

Al-Masri’s fencing journey began in April 2018 and was deeply influenced by her father, a former champion in the Arab region.

“Growing up, I was always surrounded by his memorabilia — photos and medals that showcased his accomplishments throughout his athletic career,” she said. “Moreover, with the recent initiatives led by our Crown Prince to empower women in sports, I felt encouraged to follow in his footsteps.”

Support from her family, particularly her parents, was instrumental in shaping her passion and ambition. But there were challenges along the path — Al-Masri faced several obstacles, including finding suitable training facilities and balancing her academic and professional commitments.

“Finding suitable training facilities and the ability to register female athletes in clubs were significant hurdles,” she said. “Despite these challenges, I am proud to say that I have persevered and built a name for myself in various fields. I hold a double major in law and aesthetic specialization, and I have simultaneously worked for three different marketing companies while excelling in my sport.”

As a student-athlete ambassador, Al-Masri intends to make a real impact on future generations.

“I aim to inspire young women to pursue their passions in sports while balancing their educational and personal lives,” she said.

“Having successfully navigated my own journey … I believe my experiences can serve as a powerful testament to what is achievable.”

A defining moment in Al-Masri’s career came with the challenge of establishing her name on the international stage, overcoming issues such as unfair judging.

“Despite these challenges, my determination only grew stronger,” she said. “With the guidance and expertise of my father, I developed a unique training plan which enabled me to achieve significant milestones, including winning the first Saudi bronze medal in the Under-23 European Championships in 2023. This was a groundbreaking accomplishment for Saudi fencers in Europe.”

Looking ahead to the 2024/25 season, Al-Masri is eager to engage with the FISU Student Ambassadors Program.

“I look forward to collaborating on group proposals, participating in educational webinars, celebrating the International Day of University Sport, and presenting our action plans,” she said. “This structured approach will empower me to support female athletes and contribute effectively to the broader student-athlete community.”

The support from her community and mentors has been pivotal.

“The Saudi University Sports Federation, particularly Dr. Professor Khalid Al-Muzaini and Salma Ibrahim, has played a crucial role in my development,” she said. “I am also grateful to my coach, Fawad Al-Nasiri, for selecting me as the first Saudi female athlete to represent our country at the 2023 Summer Universiade in China. Their influence has been profound, motivating me to strive for greater heights.”

And to young girls in Saudi Arabia interested in sports, Al-Masri advised: “Embrace every opportunity that comes your way, and don’t shy away from challenges. Surround yourselves with supportive mentors and friends who believe in you and encourage your growth. Your dreams and aspirations are valid, and you have the potential to achieve greatness in the world of sports.”