The Seven Colours Australian Film Festival (SCAFF) 2024 wrapped up its 12th anniversary with a celebration that brought together the essence of creativity, cultural exchange, and community. Organised by the not-for-profit SKGA Incorporated Australia, this festival continues to serve as a unique platform for artistic expression and cultural dialogue in Victoria. Over three days, it featured a vibrant mix of performances, film screenings, and engaging events, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who attended.
The festival opened on Friday, December 6, with a burst of global energy. Performers representing Greece, Russia, China, Nepal, Egypt, Sri Lanka, and Australia delivered a stunning showcase of music and dance. The air was filled with excitement as food trucks served flavours from around the world, and stalls brimmed with handcrafted jewellery and clothing. An unexpected announcement for a new feature film casting call added a thrill, hinting at future opportunities for budding performers.
At the heart of SCAFF lies its dedication to fostering community connections, a sentiment echoed during the opening day’s celebrations. Forty SKGA volunteers were recognised for their contributions with framed certificates bearing the signature of the late Pamela Chopra. This gesture paid homage to a legacy that champions the unifying power of storytelling and the arts. Attendees also included distinguished figures such as Victorian Multicultural Commission’s Deputy Chairperson Mr. Bwe They, along with MPs Ryan Batchelor, Meng Heang Tak, and Tim Wilson. Their presence underscored the festival’s role as a cornerstone for intercultural understanding.
Over the years, SCAFF has grown into a celebration of diverse voices. From a modest one-hour showcase, it has evolved into a weekend-long event incorporating live performances, film screenings, and even a dedicated TV program. This growth reflects its increasing impact on Victoria’s artistic community, offering filmmakers a chance to share stories that challenge perceptions and inspire dialogue.
Festival director and founding president Noel Nawal Moudgil reflected on the festival’s journey, noting how it bridges Australia’s dynamic arts scene with global communities. The 2024 edition was supported by collaborations with the Glen Eira City Council, the State Government of Victoria, and organisations such as ISKCON Melbourne and the Afghan Australian Philanthropic Association. These partnerships have helped SCAFF cement its reputation as a cultural landmark, promoting dialogue and shared appreciation for the arts.
SCAFF’s closing day continued the momentum with a lively panel discussion, “How to Become a Movie Star,” featuring insights from industry experts Winston Furlong and Geoff Cavanagh. This session offered valuable advice for those dreaming of making their mark in the film world, encapsulating the festival’s mission to inspire and uplift emerging talent.
What makes SCAFF stand out is its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and storytelling. Since its inception in 2002, it has consistently highlighted films that explore themes of migration, identity, and belonging, resonating deeply with audiences from all walks of life. This year’s alignment with International Migrants Day and Bodhi Day added a profound layer of meaning to the festivities, honouring the invaluable contributions of migrants to Australia’s cultural landscape.
SCAFF’s enduring impact is evident in the opportunities it creates. Emerging talent finds a stage here, while audiences are treated to films and performances that challenge and inspire. The festival’s ability to unite people through the universal language of art reinforces the idea that creativity transcends borders, fostering a sense of belonging in a diverse society.
Tributes to Yash Chopra and Pamela Chopra further highlighted SCAFF’s ethos of using art to build bridges. Their passion for storytelling continues to influence the festival’s direction, ensuring it remains a beacon for those who believe in the power of creativity to bring people together.
The organisers worked tirelessly to ensure every element of the 2024 festival reflected a commitment to inclusivity. Performances celebrated cultural traditions, film screenings brought forward stories that matter, and every guest was made to feel part of the community. By embracing this vision, SCAFF has become more than an event—it’s a movement that inspires change and fosters understanding.
Looking to the future, SCAFF is poised for even greater heights. Plans are already in motion to expand its reach, engaging more communities and creating even richer opportunities for cultural exchange. For Glen Eira residents and beyond, the festival remains a cherished occasion, showcasing the power of storytelling to unite and inspire.
As the final curtain fell, the message was unmistakable: art bridges divides, and through creative expression, we can find common ground. SCAFF stands as a testament to the strength of cultural diversity and the beauty of human connection, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating what the future holds.
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