At the heart of the Kyiv International Short Film Festival is our passion for the magic of short films and a drive to share it with audiences in Ukraine and beyond. We’re a meeting place for fresh ideas and bold storytelling, where filmmakers from all corners of the world come together to inspire and challenge one another. By showcasing inventive stories and unique voices, we aim to push the boundaries of what short films can do and celebrate the creativity that makes cinema so miraculous.
OUR CORE VALUES ⭐️
We believe in diversity, equity, and inclusion as the foundation of our work, following the principles of democratic values. We’re committed to amplifying voices that aren’t always heard — those from underrepresented communities, cultures, and perspectives. By sharing these stories, we hope to spark empathy, open minds, and build connections across borders.
We also shine a spotlight on films from countries with more limited resources for filmmaking, giving them the stage they deserve. This helps uncover hidden gems and celebrate the rich diversity of cinema around the world, from every corner and culture.
EDUCATIONAL AND INDUSTRY ACTIVITIES
For us, cinema is also a tool to inspire, teach, and connect. That’s why we work to empower generations of filmmakers and creators through workshops, masterclasses, and networking events. These spaces are all about sharing skills, building confidence, and making room for creativity to flourish — even in tough times.
Our educational programs focus on what really matters: helping emerging filmmakers, supporting low-budget productions, and sparking interest in kids and young audiences. We explore exciting topics like new technologies in cinema and dive into important themes like human rights and democratic values.
Everything we do is aimed at creating a vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking community for film lovers and makers alike.
YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES
Our work doesn’t stop with the festival! Throughout the year, we bring the awesomeness of short films to wider audiences by organising **special screenings** and **theatrical releases** of short films in Ukrainian cinemas. We’re also proud to collaborate with festivals around the world, ensuring that **Ukrainian artists and productions** take center stage on the global cinematic map.