This year 2024 ends with a very significant recognition for La Salle Technical Secondary School in Hohola, Papua New Guinea, at the prestigious Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival (DBGYFF), which values and rewards the creativity, content and quality of work produced by young filmmakers from around the world.
On this occasion, a Lasallian production has stood out among the best. It is the short film I Am the Change, directed by Miss Serah David and Mr Murray Misha, from the Media Education Group of the Papuan Technical High School, was selected as one of the final 120 films in the festival’s Global Best 2-Minute Film Category.
The short film won third place in this highly competitive DBGYFF category, making it the only film from Papua New Guinea to reach this final stage.
Framed in an educational setting, I Am Change addresses some challenging social realities in Papua New Guinea, such as peer pressure and the challenges faced by single mothers, where opportunities for youth are limited. In the words of Miss Serah David, the short film “has been inspired by the challenges we face in society, in our society in Papua New Guinea, by the fact that most young people face challenges such as poverty, broken families trapped by peer pressure and societal growth and most importantly youth unemployment”.
The transformative power of dreams
At the heart of the narrative is the necessary decision making in the face of adversity, with an explicit invitation to pursue one’s dreams, highlighting the fundamental role of education, teachers and family.
“I am change celebrates resilience family bond and the transformative power of dreams. It reminds us that even in the most challenging circumstances, hope can light the way toward a brighter future,” reads the synopsis of the short film, available on the vimeo platform.
“The recognition of this film at the DBGYFF is a testament to the vision and commitment of La Salle Technical Secondary School, which continues to inspire students and staff alike to engage in creative expression and critical thinking,” highlighted the Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan and Papua New Guinea Lasallian District (ANZPPNG). “The success of I Am Change also highlights the dedication of both students and teachers, whose hard work and passion for storytelling came to life on the global stage. Their achievement serves a source of pride and motivation for the entire Lasallian community”.
You can watch below the short film I Am the Change.
* Source: ANZPPNG District.
