The Focus Story
For the 16th consecutive year, NOVA Employment proudly presents the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival!This vibrant festival invites filmmakers to celebrate the abilities of people with disabilities, sharing powerful stories that captivate audiences around the globe. This year has been nothing short of spectacular, with our generous sponsors contributing over $100,000 in cash and prizes to inspire filmmakers and empower individuals with disabilities to share their unique narratives.
Founded in 2009 by NOVA Employment's CEO Martin Wren, the festival is built on a belief in the remarkable capabilities of people with disabilities. Martin envisioned film as a transformative medium, capable of reshaping perceptions and attitudes toward these individuals worldwide. Alongside Paula Duncan AM, a luminary in the Australian film and television industry with a deep commitment to supporting people with disabilities, they have tirelessly championed this festival.
Past films have been both educational and inspirational, reaching audiences in over 170 countries and engaging more than 4 million film views. Viewers have shared how these entries have profoundly changed their attitudes and perceptions.
This year, we're thrilled to feature films from every Australian state and territory, along with contributions from 20 countries around the world!
The festival culminates in an exciting red carpet awards event, where filmmakers get to experience the thrill of seeing their work on the big screen, and some will even have their films broadcast on national television following the awards ceremony.
Over the past year, the festival has expanded its reach with additional screenings in Thailand, Spain, New Zealand, Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, the UK, and all across Australia.
With an audience capacity exceeding 4 million people and still growing, the festival offers unparalleled exposure for emerging filmmakers and provides a platform for individuals with disabilities to share their important messages with the world.
Films are judged by a professional panel and subject to an engaging online voting process, with separate prizes awarded for each category. Join us in celebrating the incredible talent and stories that highlight the abilities of individuals with disabilities!
In 2009, CEO of NOVA Employment Martin Wren began the festival with a belief in the ability of people with disability, and the goal of bringing that belief to the world through the medium of film. Martin recognised the power of film to challenge people's fixed beliefs and perceptions about the lives and abilities of people with disability around the world.
Paula Duncan, known for both her success in the Australian film and television industry and passion for supporting people with disability, has worked tirelessly to bring this festival to the world.
Ryan Goodwin studied as a journalist and has used his curiosity and ability to talk to people to encourage film makers from all walks of life to tell their story via the medium of film.