Doha, Qatar: As part of the exciting build-up to the EU Youth Short Film Festival 2025, taking place on November 24–25 , 2025, the Delegation of the European Union to the State of Qatar will host thought-provoking masterclasses led by internationally acclaimed filmmakers from JaJa Film Productions.

Under the theme“Films That Move You – The Art of Creating Stories with Impact”, the masterclasses will explore how cinema can spark empathy, drive awareness, and inspire social change, with a particular focus on inclusive storytelling and the empowerment of women in filmmaking. Topics will span the entire filmmaking journey, from creative development to case studies that have made a global impact.

The sessions will be delivered by Jamillah van der Hulst and Conrad Alleblas, co-founders of JaJa Film Productions, a Netherlands-based company known for creating films with powerful social messages.

“It's a real pleasure to connect with the youth of Qatar and share our experiences in building films that can truly make a difference,” said Jamillah van der Hulst, Founder and Director-Producer at JaJa Film Productions and masterclass speaker.“We hope to inspire young creatives to tell stories that matter and tell them well.”

The masterclasses will take place on November 24 at Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar and on November 25 at Northwestern University in Qatar. Both institutions are key academic partners in the film festival.

“The collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar and Northwestern University in Qatar reflects our strong belief in the power of education and creative exchange,” said HE Dr. Cristian Tudor, Ambassador of the European Union to the State of Qatar.“Through these partnerships, we are connecting students with European expertise, enriching the dialogue between cultures, and investing in the next generation of storytellers.”

Beyond the academic halls, the festival culminates in two evenings of public film screenings on November 24 and 25 at Doha Sands Beach, featuring a curated selection of short films from across the European Union and Qatar.

This year marks a new and exciting collaboration with Al Mana Film Studios, Qatar's first independent cinema studio, which is contributing to the festival by supporting emerging Qatari talent and helping shape the local film segment of the programme.

“We are proud to be part of this inspiring initiative that supports emerging talent and celebrates cultural dialogue through film,” said AbdulRahman Al Mana, Chief Executive Officer of Al Mana Film Studios.“It's an honour to contribute to a platform that bridges our stories with the world.”

The EU Youth Short Film Festival invites the public to attend two evenings of creative celebration and cinematic storytelling.

Register now through the website: eufilmfestival , to attend the film screenings and explore stories that move, challenge, and connect us all.

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