KARACHI: Ten aspiring Pakistani filmmakers came together to showcase the fruits of their labour on Friday.

Five short documentary films, which offer unique perspectives on the environmental challenges faced by communities in Pakistan, were showcased at the event, organised by Patakha Pictures.

Held at the Marriott, the ceremony marked the culmination of a seven-month programme titled ‘Her Earth Advocates’, which saw the 10 young filmmakers paired up to be mentored by Sundance award-winning filmmaker Jesse Ericka Epstein.

According to a statement issued after the event, Maira Pasha and Shifa Rajput; Nadia Zartaj and Nagina Jabeen; Natasha Javed and Nirmal Bano; Sabika Noor Ali and Namrah Sikander; and, Saro Imran and Zareen Rajpoot participated in the intensive online mentorship series, which focused on the themes of climate change and women’s empowerment in Pakistan.

The closing event showcased the work of the fellows, who were celebrated for their determination to tackle climate change issues.

Oscar-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, whose SOC films is the force behind Patakha Pictures, and actor Sarwat Gillani also hosted a panel discussion with the fellows and their mentor, Ms Epstein, which served as a platform for the fellows to discuss their projects and share glimpses into the creative process behind their films.

Published in Dawn, November 2nd, 2024