by FilmInk Staff
AFDIF Film Festival 2025: A Bold Celebration of Diversity, Inclusion, and Storytelling
Adelaide, Australia – 19 September 2025
The Australian Film Diversity and Inclusion Foundation Inc (AFDIF) proudly announces the return of its landmark event, the AFDIF Film Festival 2025, which took place at Wallis Cinema in Torrens Park. This year’s festival again delivered as promised, serving as the strongest yet and a powerful celebration of inclusive storytelling, amplifying voices that truly reflect the diversity of Australia today.
The AFDIF Film Festival is more than just a showcase of films; it is a movement dedicated to reshaping the cultural landscape. The festival champions stories from underrepresented communities, including First Nations, those with disabilities, multicultural voices, and neurodivergent individuals, ensuring that their narratives are not only told but celebrated on the big screen. Captioned screenings, Auslan interpretation, hearing loop access, accessible seating and parking ensured an inclusive festival experience.
“Cinema has the power to shape culture and challenge perspectives. AFDIF exists to ensure that every voice, every story, and every community is part of that conversation,” said Yogi Devgan, Founder and Director of AFDIF.
The AFDIF Film Festival was hosted by the acclaimed actor and MC Stephen Tongun, recognised for his role in Netflix’s Spiderhead alongside Chris Hemsworth. He co-hosted the awards with the dynamic Nalina Okey. Together, they infused the event with warmth, energy, and charisma, making it an unforgettable night that celebrated underrepresented voices in film.
The festival attracted a diverse audience, including individuals from various cultural backgrounds and those living with disabilities, all coming together to enjoy an inspiring lineup of films and a vibrant awards ceremony. The evening also offered a special tribute to the dedicated volunteers, whose passion and commitment were crucial to the success of the AFDIF Film Festival 2025.
The program showcased the wide range of diverse storytelling in Australia, featuring several award-winning films, including:
Swell – Inclusive Film Students Award
Muzak – Inclusive Filmmaking Award
A Song for Skyla – Best Actor
Unbreakable Stride – Inspiring Story Award
The Mysterious Maiden of Montefiores – First Nations Film Award
Red – Best Cinematography and Best Actress
Myself & My Enemyz – Most Thought-Provoking Film
Local Hero – Aunty Joan Lamont-Williams
The Local Hero Award honoured Mary’s daughter, Aunty Joan Lamont-Williams, for her lifelong advocacy and leadership. In an extraordinary show of resilience, the 82-year-old Elder attended the festival with family, friends and the 50 Year of Kalaya’s film crew, despite being discharged from hospital earlier that day, recovering from a broken hip. Beaming from her wheelchair, she accepted a bouquet of native Australian flowers to rousing applause, joined by her granddaughter, dancer and choreographer Caleena Sansbury, whose own work continues the family’s activist legacy.
Co-producer/ director, Antonia Kloss said, “This recognition is about more than a film. It’s about honouring a legacy of community activism, the leadership of Aboriginal women and the importance of culture for future generations.”
This documentary also won the Audience Award, which was announced live with a QR code. The audience received the results via email as soon as voting was finished, and award was announced by an audience member.
“It’s wonderful to engage the audience and allow them to announce the awards they prefer, as we create films for them, and they are the best judges of what they enjoy.” Said Yogi Devgan, Founder and Director of AFDIF.
Unbreakable Stride is an inspirational documentary that tells the story of Bexta Noonan, a neurodivergent individual who faced significant challenges and ultimately became a model. This powerful film chronicles Bexta’s resilience and journey of self-discovery.
The documentary was produced by Violeta Abarzua, who made her debut in filmmaking with this project. Violeta came to Australia as a refugee from Chile at a young age and now works in the disability care sector and have a strong passion for neurodiverse individuals.
“I found Bexta’s story to be both powerful and inspirational,” said Violeta Abarzua.
The Mysterious Maiden of Montefiores, written and directed by Travis Akbar, who produced alongside Disabled Producer Adam Gerard, captivated audiences with its compelling storytelling and unique creative vision. Travis Akbar is a Wongutha man raised on Wirangu country near Ceduna and now lives and works on Peramangk country in the Adelaide Hills.
The festival proudly recognised individuals living with disabilities and celebrated the Bus Stop Film Inclusive students from Adelaide for their work on the short film Swell.
Ben Paior-Smith accepted the award and expressed his gratitude, saying, “I enjoy working on films, and I want to thank AFDIF for acknowledging all of us students living with disabilities.”
The Australian Film Diversity and Inclusion Foundation Inc. (AFDIF) is a not-for-profit organisation committed to promoting diverse storytelling and creating accessible platforms for creativity. Through its annual film festival, ongoing initiatives throughout the year, and advocacy within the industry, AFDIF works to break down barriers, bridge cultures, and strengthen an inclusive Australian screen industry.
