by FilmInk Staff
Independent filmmakers and under-represented storytellers celebrated in Adelaide on October 16, for the Annual Australian Film Diversity and Inclusion Foundation (AFDIF) Film Festival. Once again, AFDIF brought diverse stories and independent filmmaking to the big screen, for an evening hosted at Mitcham’s Wallis Cinemas, supported by Utopia Care, the City of Mitcham Council, and a group of local business sponsors.
Celebrating cultural diversity, inclusion and authentic representation – the festival provides a platform for filmmakers whose voices, perspectives and experiences are not always reflected in mainstream cinema.
Hosted by Stephen Tongun and Nalina Tran, the 2026 program featured short films exploring identity, culture, community and social issues, bringing together South Australian and international perspectives. The evening included red-carpet networking, screenings and an awards ceremony celebrating filmmakers and their work.
Featured films included False Narrative, directed by Travis Akbar, exploring online accusations and misinformation, and Dadi Maa: Dayawati Pandey, directed by South Australian filmmaker and AFDIF Founder Yogi Devgan, telling the story of an Indian grandmother whose grassroots language school becomes a cultural lifeline for migrant families.
AFDIF is committed to sharing stories that challenge assumptions, encourage understanding and reflect Australia’s cultural diversity. Through its film festival, arts initiatives and community collaborations, the not-for-profit organisation supports under-represented voices and greater inclusion both on screen and behind the camera.
By connecting filmmakers, artists, communities and audiences, AFDIF contributes to a more inclusive and representative Australian screen culture.
Joanna Wells, Councillor for Boorman Ward at the City of Mitcham, praised the festival and highlighted the valuable contribution of the arts to local communities. “To say that our support was appreciated would be an understatement. The arts always seem to be the poor cousin to sport, yet they too contribute a huge amount to our communities.”
Reflecting on the films screened at the festival, she added: “These awards are for independent films, and the breadth and depth of the films we saw was truly impressive. Importantly, the films are thought provoking and open our eyes and minds to the experiences of others.”
“What a privilege to represent the South Australian Multicultural Commission at the Australian Film Diversity & Inclusion Foundation documentary screening. Diversity is our strength, but inclusion is how we turn that strength into meaningful connection. Film has this incredible power — to let us see the world through someone else’s eyes and hear stories that deserve to be heard.” Irene Rowe
The festival’s success was supported by the City of Mitcham through a community grant, helping AFDIF offer free admission to audiences and create an accessible community celebration of independent cinema.
FIVE YEARS OF CHAMPIONING DIVERSITY THROUGH FILM
This year’s festival also marked an important milestone for Yogi Devgan, founder of AFDIF and a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the screen industry. Yogi’s advocacy through film festivals spans five years, beginning with the Port Adelaide Diversity and Inclusion Film Festival and continuing through the development of AFDIF. The 2026 event marks the third year of the AFDIF Film Festival in Mitcham, reflecting his ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for diverse filmmakers and ensuring that stories from all communities are seen, heard and valued.
Through grassroots initiatives, community partnerships and the celebration of independent filmmaking, Yogi has worked to create spaces where cultural identity, lived experiences and different perspectives can connect with audiences.
Reflecting on the milestone, Yogi Devgan said: “Film has the power to bring people together, challenge perceptions and create a deeper understanding of one another. For the past five years, my journey through diversity and inclusion film festivals has been about creating opportunities for voices that are often under-represented.
“Seeing filmmakers recognised for their work and audiences connecting with these stories reminds us why this platform matters. There is still much to do, but every film screened and every story shared helps move us forward.”
AFDIF WELCOMES NEW BOARD MEMBERS
As the foundation looks towards its next chapter, Yogi Devgan welcomed Brian Hayes KC and Irene Rowe as new AFDIF board members. Their appointments bring valuable experience and fresh perspectives to the organisation, strengthening its governance and supporting the continued development of the festival. The appointments mark an
important step in building AFDIF’s capacity to expand its initiatives, strengthen partnerships and create further opportunities for filmmakers from diverse backgrounds.
“I am delighted to welcome Brian Hayes KC and Irene Rowe to the AFDIF Board. Continuing this work requires a strong team, shared commitment and people who bring valuable
experience and fresh perspectives. Having experienced board members join us will strengthen our organisation, enhance our capacity and help us take the festival forward while remaining true to our grassroots values and our commitment to diversity and inclusion.” Yogi Devgan
CELEBRATING THE 2026 AFDIF FILM FESTIVAL AWARD WINNERS
The 2026 Australian Film Diversity & Inclusion Foundation (AFDIF) Film Festival celebrated the creativity, talent and commitment of independent filmmakers who bring diverse experiences and important social issues to the screen. The awards recognised outstanding achievements across animation, storytelling, cinematography, acting and inclusive filmmaking.
The 2026 award winners were:
BEST ANIMATION: WREN
BEST DIVERSE STORY: BOCIA
THOUGHT-PROVOKING STORY: FALSE NARRATIVE
INCLUSION TEAM: CRUSHING DEBT
INCLUSIVE FILMMAKERS AWARD: HARTBURN RACISM
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY: RACISM
BEST ACTOR: DEEPA PARMAR (FOR HER PERFORMANCE IN REMEDY)
AUDIENCE AWARD: TRUST THE CHEF
The Audience Award was conducted through online voting, giving festival attendees the opportunity to participate in recognising their favourite film. The results were communicated to those who voted in real time, and Trust the Chef emerged as the audience favourite. The awards celebrate not only filmmaking excellence but also the importance of sharing stories that challenge perceptions, encourage meaningful conversation and reflect the experiences of our communities.
