Focus on Ability Short Film Festival

The Focus on Ability Short Film Festival Malawi is a powerful platform that celebrates the talents and stories of persons with disabilities through the lens of film. Organized annually by FOAS in partnership with NOVA Employment (Australia), the festival invites filmmakers to produce short films that challenge stereotypes, raise awareness, and showcase the abilities—not the limitations—of people living with disabilities. Since 2017, the festival has empowered dozens of local storytellers, awarded inspiring talents, and brought communities together to reimagine inclusion, one film at a time.

🎥 Focus on Ability Short Film Festival Malawi

Celebrating Ability. Changing Perceptions. Empowering Through Film.

The Focus on Ability Short Film Festival Malawi is the flagship annual event of Focus on Ability Society (FOAS), designed to challenge societal perceptions about disability and amplify the voices, talents, and stories of persons with disabilities through the powerful medium of film. Launched in 2017 and supported by NOVA Employment in Sydney, Australia, the festival is part of a global movement that promotes inclusion, creativity, and empowerment across borders.

Each year, the festival invites Malawian filmmakers—especially youth and emerging storytellers—to produce short films or documentaries under the theme “Focus on Ability.” These films spotlight the abilities, resilience, and contributions of people living with disabilities, offering a compelling counter-narrative to stigma and discrimination. Submissions are judged locally and internationally, with outstanding films and individuals receiving awards, recognition, and in some cases, start-up grants to pursue their creative or advocacy work.

Over the years, the festival has become a beacon of inclusion and innovation in Malawi’s creative and social development landscape:

Over 50 people with disabilities and filmmakers awarded since inception.
Film screenings and awards ceremonies hosted in major cities such as Blantyre and Lilongwe, often graced by ambassadors, disability organizations, artists, and students.
Partnerships with institutions like Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA), and the Australian High Commission, among others.

The festival has featured inspiring films like See Me, See Abilities and others that have gone on to gain international attention and spark dialogue in schools, churches, and communities across Malawi.

More than a film event, the Focus on Ability Festival is a movement—using the art of storytelling to dismantle barriers, empower underrepresented voices, and foster a culture where every person is seen for their potential, not their limitations.