The Inspiring Asia Micro Film Festival 2024 has concluded, celebrating Asia’s diverse cultures, innovative spirit, and commitment to positive change. This year’s festival, themed Sustainability, highlighted compelling stories that tackled critical environmental, social, and economic challenges, offering fresh perspectives on creating a better future.
Jointly presented by the Li Foundation (LIF), Rockefeller Brothers Fund (RBF), and the Asia Philanthropy Circle (APC), the festival received an overwhelming response with 70 submissions from 8 countries and regions. These entries include 40 nonprofit organizations and 17 student films from 14 universities, reflecting the diversity and creativity within Asia’s social impact landscape.
After a meticulous selection process, 20 outstanding films were chosen for public screenings and evaluations at two renowned venues:
Their thoughtful evaluations identified 8 exceptional films from 5 countries and regions whose stories captured the diversity and impact of Asia’s efforts toward sustainability.
The 8 Finalist Films:
(in alphabetical order)
On November 13, the grand finale featured the 8 films at APC’s venn 2024, where they compete for two prestigious awards:
The event opened with remarks from Mr. Laurence Lien, Co-Founder and founding CEO of the Asia Philanthropy Circle, who shared his aspirations for the festival and its lasting impact. Over 50 APC members and guests from 14 countries and regions, attended the screenings and participated in the voting process.
Due to exceptionally close scores, the committee decided to award two winners per category, encouraging creators to continue producing impactful works and supporting nonprofits in delivering meaningful projects. This decision underscores the festival’s commitment to social innovation and transformative impact.
Ms. Shenyu Belsky, Program Director for the Rockefeller Brothers Fund in China, announced the winners and presented the awards during the ceremony.
(USD$20,000 prize, shared equally)
Blossoming Over Lips
(China)
Director: Liu Shaocong
.
Cassie’s Story: Survivor of Online Sexual Abuse (Philippines)
Filmmaking Team: International Justice Mission UK and Clay Films
(USD$30,000 prize, shared equally)
Indonesia’s Silent Emergency: Stunting in Rural Populations (Indonesia)
Project: 1000 Days Fund
When Was the Last Time You Hugged Your Father (Singapore)
Project: Kids In Play by Community Chest
In addition, all finalists will receive a USD$1,000 prize to acknowledge their contributions.
The Next Gen Award was introduced to celebrating the most popular student-produced film, chosen by student audiences, reflecting the voice of the next generation. The USD$1,000 prize will be awarded to:
Second Chance (Thailand)
Director: Thanyaporn Juntiwa
Institution: Chulalongkorn School of Integrated Innovation
After announcing the results, Ms. Shenyu Belsky delivered closing remarks, emphasizing that next year’s festival will focus on Youth Mental Well-being, a critical issue central to the growth and happiness of future generations.
Together, the festival showcased how powerful stories rooted in sustainability can inspire communities and drive meaningful change. Through these films, Inspiring Asia 2024 celebrated the transformative impact of creativity and collaboration in addressing Asia’s most pressing challenges.
Founded in 1940 by the third generation of the Rockefeller family, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund is dedicated to advancing social change that contributes to a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world. Its work focuses on global challenges such as climate change, democratic practices, and building equitable societies.
Founded in 2015 in Singapore, APC is a member-driven platform created by philanthropists for philanthropists, fostering collaboration to address systemic challenges. With over 60 members from 14 countries and regions, APC provides a space for learning, networking, and joint philanthropy.
As Thailand’s oldest and most prestigious university, Chulalongkorn University is renowned for its academic excellence. Named after King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), it consistently ranks among the top universities in Thailand and Asia. The Chulalongkorn School of Integrated Innovation (CSII) is a forward-thinking academic institution at Chulalongkorn University, Thailand’s premier university.
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