Message of the Honorary Director

Hello,

The International Women Filmmakers Festival is being held for the 8th time this year, under the theme “Not As It Seems.”

First and foremost, we must say that our festival has grown step by step as a powerful example and success of women’s solidarity. In both our country and the wider world, amid heavy and challenging agendas, it is clear that another language, another stance, and our increasing responsibilities toward one another stand before us as vital tasks.

Our festival continues to grow each day with the ambition to remind us of this language, this stance, and these responsibilities, and to transform us in the process.

Personally, I have always been truly happy to work with the young people who are at the heart of this festival — to learn from them and to support them.
Because the future belongs to them… and their hopes and dreams are greater than anything else.

Especially in this period, where we have been feeling breathless and overwhelmed for quite some time, they reminded us once again that we don’t have the luxury of feeling helpless.

Moreover, it is clear that in such times, turning to the healing power of art — to its ability to open up new horizons and expand our dreams — is something that does us all good.
After all, isn’t cinema the very essence of life itself?

On the other hand, our festival is also, in a way, a product of İzmir. It is a unique energy that reflects the spirit of this city and empowers us.
With the contributions and efforts of our Metropolitan Municipality first and foremost, as well as local municipalities, civil society organizations, the private sector, and our wonderful volunteers, we are able to make this festival happen and grow stronger every year.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our supporters — because we all need this solidarity and the opportunity to amplify our city’s vibrant energy.

That’s why we strive to cultivate a sense of responsibility toward one another, our environment, our past, our future, and the institutions of collective living.
We aim to contribute to the creation of a public consciousness and mindset that is rooted in justice, conscience, solidarity, and a shared language.

And so, we will never lose our hope.
That hope will only be possible through the power of art and the solidarity of women, who will undoubtedly be the true protagonists of the new life to come.

Long live art, long live cinema, and long live women…

Sema PEKDAŞ

Attorney