Doha:The Doha Film Festival (DFF), organized by the Doha Film Institute (DFI), has unveiled the lineup for the 2026 Ajyal Film Competition, featuring a selection of 17 films that highlight the imagination and creativity of young people. This announcement includes five feature films and 12 short films crafted by international filmmakers, showcasing Ajyal's commitment to empowering youth through cinema and fostering meaningful dialogue.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Ajyal Film Competition is distinguished by its jury, which consists of young individuals aged 16 to 25. This jury engages in discussions about the films and has the responsibility of selecting the winners. The competition underscores the importance of youthful perspectives, emphasizing the role of the new generation in shaping cultural conversations.
Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, CEO of the Doha Film Institute and Festival Director of DFF, expressed that young people are more than just the audience of the future; they are influential voices and storytellers impacting the world today. The growth of Ajyal jurors into curators and moderators highlights the power of cinema to celebrate individuality and affirm the significance of their voices.
The Feature Film Competition will present five films exploring themes of growing up and the search for belonging. These films include "Ben'Imana" by Marie-Clémentine Dusabejambo, "Gabin" by Maxence Voiseux, "Out of School" by Hind Bensari, "Summer Meadow" by Naël Khleifi and Lisa Debauche, and "We Are Aliens" by Kohei Kadowaki.
The short film selection consists of 12 works, including "As a Cure" by Dorothea Sing Zhang, "Boomerang Atomic" by Rachid Bouchareb, "Boundaries" by Seun Yee, and "Intersecting Memory" by Shayma' Awawdeh, among others. Through the Ajyal Film Competition, DFF continues to advocate for cinema as a vehicle for cultural exchange, critical thinking, and creative exploration.
