Annual Report 2024
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1. Introduction
The Power24 International Film Festival, Africa’s premier disability-inclusive festival, continued its mission in 2024 to celebrate diverse cinematic voices and promote inclusivity across all vulnerable sectors. Building on its 2023 debut, the festival has grown into a global stage where film and social impact meet.
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2. Objectives
To showcase films from around the world with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and representation.
To empower filmmakers from vulnerable sectors including disability, youth, women, LGBTQI+, and rural communities.
To establish Durban as a hub for socially conscious and inclusive cinema.
To create opportunities for cultural exchange and global collaboration.
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3. Festival Venues
The 2024 edition was successfully hosted across three key Durban venues:
BAT Centre – a cultural home for arts and creative industries.
Denis Hurley Centre – a space connecting community, culture, and dialogue.
Musgrave Centre – bringing the festival to a broader commercial and public audience.
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4. Participation & Screenings
Films Screened: 60
Countries Represented: 50+
Growth Projection: Expanded to 75 films for 2025
Genres & Themes: Historical films, disability-focused films, youth and children’s cinema, LGBTQI stories, rural narratives, spirituality, women’s issues, humanitarian films, and environmental conservation films.
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5. Festival Highlights 2024
Opening Film – Zipped
Starred Buhle Khumalo, who won Best Actress at the Africa USA Film Festival.
Set a strong tone of empowerment and excellence for the festival.
Disability Inclusivity
Screenings featured closed captions, audio descriptions, and accessibility-driven initiatives.
A portion of the awards recognized talent and contributions from individuals with disabilities.
Cultural Exchange
The festival welcomed filmmakers and audiences from five continents, cementing its global reach.
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6. Impact
Local Impact: Boosted Durban’s profile as a city of film and culture.
Social Impact: Addressed pressing issues such as disability inclusivity, drug abuse, youth empowerment, and rural development.
Economic Impact: Attracted international filmmakers, encouraging cultural tourism and local business growth.
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7. Partnerships & Collaborations
Collaboration with academic and community institutions to provide platforms for students and emerging filmmakers.
Growing ties with other international festivals and industry networks.
Engagement with NGOs and advocacy organizations to strengthen the festival’s impact on vulnerable communities.
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8. Preview of 2025
Films Screened: 75 (an increase from 60 in 2024)
Opening Film: Vutha by Desmond Mogotsi (Daveyton, South Africa)
Tackles social ills in South Africa, particularly the issue of drugs.
Incorporates disability inclusivity as a core theme.
Expanded masterclasses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for filmmakers.
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9. Conclusion
The Power24 International Film Festival 2024 proved to be a landmark event that amplified marginalized voices, celebrated diversity, and positioned itself as Africa’s fastest-growing disability-inclusive film festival. Its growth trajectory and international recognition demonstrate that Power24 is not only a cultural celebration but also a movement for empowerment and inclusion.
