Oluwa Nirabia, artistic director of Amsterdam’s leading documentary festival IDFA, will resign on July 1, when her current term expires.
He announced this decision jointly with the organization in the run-up to this year’s festival, which will be held from November 14th to 24th, marking the seventh and final time under his leadership. .
Nairabia will remain in his role until July 1 to “ensure that the upcoming transition is well-planned and facilitated and initial preparations for the 2025 edition go smoothly,” the statement said.
Since taking over in January 2018, Nairabia and the festival team have revamped the film and industry programming, launching new platforms and initiatives that have become pillars of the festival, including the Envision Competition, IDFA On Stage and Producers Connection. Ta. Also, during this period, the organization achieved gender parity among its various sections.
IDFA’s focus on increasing global representation in the field has been a key element throughout his tenure and is now embedded in all its decisions, with the aim of ” “It’s a gathering place for the film community to come together and feel at home,” the association said. Matsuri said.
Some people disagree with this assessment. Last year, pro-Palestinian protesters took to the stage at the opening ceremony carrying banners with the slogan “From the rivers to the sea, Palestine will be free,” which many said called for the destruction of Israel. The people in the department are claiming. The festival later issued a statement saying, “That slogan does not represent us nor do we endorse it in any way. We are truly sorry for the hurt it has caused so many people.”
According to the festival, IDFA has successfully navigated the pandemic over the past seven years, adapting to changing social and political realities and the ever-changing world of documentary.
Together with the Board of Directors, Nairabia oversaw major projects, most importantly the restructuring of IDFA as a “laboratory of documentary culture” and the opening of the Documentary Pavilion, IDFA’s year-round space in the center of Amsterdam. did.
Nairabia commented: “I have always considered this great role to be an artistic endeavor, a much more important and important responsibility than just a job. I recognize that it’s a good moment to start a new chapter.
“My decision is another way of expressing my love for IDFA and its great team. Change is necessary, especially when the time is right.
“I am proud of what we have achieved as a team and with the global film community during the past meaningful and difficult years. Thank you for your support, and I hope to be back on the other side of the world, slowly and happily, sending in ideas, films, and funding applications. Critically, seeking answers.
“I am also full of optimism and am confident that IDFA will grow stronger and sharper over time, no matter which way the wind blows. , filmmakers, and all those who need film to heal, grow, and find meaning beyond the immediate, and we look forward to welcoming the world to the 2024 edition of IDFA. I dare say this will be one of the best editions ever.”
IDFA Audit Committee Chair Marie de Gaay-Fortman thanked Nairabia for his contributions over the past seven years, saying, “His influence in the arts has elevated IDFA and strengthened the festival and the organization.” Orwa’s vision was driven by ambition, and while we are saddened by his departure, we encourage him to pursue his ambitions and create new ones. After the festival ends, IDFA will begin the process of finding a new artistic director. I am grateful for that.”
