Screening of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival

By Fr. Jolino Vieira

       Comoro, Dili, Timor-Leste, 24 November 2021 -- The 18th and 19th of November 2021, was scheduled for the screening of the Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival at the level of the congregation. Hence, in Timor-Leste, the Social Communication office organized students from St. Peter’s High School accompanied by their teachers; invited guests from the National University of Timor-Leste and young people of the youth centers based in Díli.

       The screening was held in the multi-function hall of the Philosophical Institute of St. Francis de Sales, Comoro-Díli. Young people around 50 to 70 attended the screening with much enthusiasm.

       The first short film screened was The Bearers of Hope. This is the film that was produced by the TLS Vice-Province with their young people. We are grateful that among the 1686 submitted films from 3 different categories (Short Film, Video Musical and Video animation), The Bearers of Hope was selected to the Grand Jury with 109 other short films. We are also thankful that from 110 short films, the BEST YOUNG FEMALE ACTOR “GREAT PERFORMANCE” award was won by The Bearers of Hope.

       After the first screening, the viewers were spontaneously clapping to show their appreciation to those who have been part of the process of producing the film. The Bearers of Hope challenges the viewers to be ambassadors of hope to each other in this time of uncertainty.

       This short film was based on the reality of Timor-Leste and elsewhere; where people are dying every day and leaving their families lonely at times. Hence, we need to open our eyes and extend the necessary help to each other and especially to the most vulnerable ones.

       After the viewing of selected films from the shortlisted 110 films; the audience were given the opportunity to reflect, discuss and share their thoughts and ideas. In this way, we are enriching each other to be inspired by films.

       The program ended with snacks in the Post-Novitiate community where discussions and sharing were also done.

       All the films were based on the Strenna of the Rector Major Fr. Angel Fernandez Artime, “Moved by Hope.” These videos from the 5 continents in the globe depict the idea of Hope. This is really an opportune time for young people to explore the opportunities amidst the calamity and pandemic crisis to Move on by Hope.

       Below are some comments from the audience:

       “Life must go on.” In the past 2 years we have been devastated by natural calamities and Covid-19, but life must move on. These films are telling us to let ourselves be guided by God. He will not let us face those problems on our own. Facing problems and difficulties does not let ourselves be driven to hopelessness. Moved by hope and God is our Hope.” (Teresa Maria Dos Santos Da Cruz)

       “Everyone is unique. At times we are insecure of our physical appearance. Hence, we start to compare ourselves with others and we tend to appreciate others as better than ourselves. We fall into the inferiority complex. We have this attitude of low self-esteem. Here we need to keep in mind that God created us different from others. Therefore, we are unique. We need to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. We learn to love what is good. Where chaos is dominating, we need to fire it with love and compassion. By this, we will transform the world.” (Joãozinho Henqui Rei Cabral Gusmão)

       “Be focused on what we are doing. We cannot do two things at the same time. Many accidents happen due to our negligence. Focus on one activity, will lead us to great success.” (Fernando Van Nahak)

       “Bullying may cause bad mental health. Hence, we need to avoid this bad attitude. We need to spread the positive vibes in order to build a healthy relationship in the family, schools and society at large. Life is not only about money but we do need money in order to live. In order to buy our daily necessities we need money. In this digital era; we need to use social media positively for a better connection and to gain knowledge.” (Cecílio Aparício Mendes Ribeiro)

       “God is the center of our life. To solve our problems; we need others but first of all we need God. Bring all your worries, problems and difficulties to Him. He will surely help you. What you need is Faith, a Crystal faith.” (Edgar Pereira Ribeiro Belo)

       “We would like to extend our appreciation and gratitude to the Salesians for inviting us to this event. The movies have been so informative and formative at the same time. We have been enriched so much through the films as well as with our sharing and reflections. (Bem Vindo Sarmento)

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