Josefa Sigavolavola 
Film Fiji Board Chair Culden Kamea says the return of the Kula Film Awards after seven years is more than a showcase of talent, but a pathway into the creative industry for young people.
Kamea says 35 student films were submitted, with 15 making the finals.
He says the competition will expand to Fiji’s divisions next year, giving more schools an opportunity to participate.
“We want to go out to the divisions… it’ll get much bigger very quickly. We’re going to have regional competitions so that we can really promote the industry to school children out there who may not be accountants or lawyers or rugby players, but can express themselves through this industry to the school children out there who may not be accountants or lawyers or rugby players but they can express themselves through this industry.”
Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who officiated at the awards, says the films demonstrated strong creativity while addressing issues including cybercrime, bullying and youth concerns.
“It’s very awesome to see the talent and the creativity and even the camera work is very professional… Fiji’s future is in good hands.”
The awards concluded on Saturday at USP’s Laucala Campus, with organisers planning to expand the competition next year.
