Ajyal 2024 Events
INTAJ
From Ground Zero Experience
Doha Film Institute (DFI) and Ajyal Film Festival are honoured to present From Ground Zero, a poignant collection of 22 short films by filmmakers from Gaza. Initiated by acclaimed Palestinian filmmaker Rashid Masharawi, this project captures raw, unfiltered glimpses of life within one of the world’s most harrowing environments. Each filmmaker brings forth a deeply personal narrative of resilience, offering audiences a genuine view of Gaza’s enduring spirit through stories shaped by hardship and hope.
Spanning three to six minutes, these films explore a range of genres—fiction, documentary, animation, and experimental cinema—revealing a vibrant artistic community that continues to create despite immense obstacles. With screenings across three digital spaces, we invite viewers to connect with voices that embody Gaza’s strength, courage, and humanity. This exhibit stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the unbreakable will to express one’s truth.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the filmmakers, whose works bring Gaza’s culture and community vividly to life:
Reema Mahmoud, Muhammad Al Sharif, Ahmed Hassouna, Islam Al Zeriei, Mustafa Kolab, Nidal Damo, Ahmed Al-Danaf, Alaa Islam Ayoub, Khamis Masharawi, Bashar Al-Balbisi, Tamer Nijim, Etimad Washah, Karim Satoum, Alaa Damo, Aws Al-Banna, Rabab Khamis, Mustafa Al Nabih, Neda’a Abu Hassnah, Hana Eleiwa, Wissam Moussa, Basel El-Maqousi, Mahdi Kreirah.
Experience ‘From Ground Zero’ at Intaj 2024 to witness narratives of strength and hope that rise unbroken, even in the harshest of times.
16 – 23 November 2024
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)
Friday: 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sikkat Wadi Msheireb
Beside Park Hyatt Hotel, Msheireb Downtown Doha
Geekend 2024
A Platform for Qatar’s Creative Community
Ajyal Film Festival and DFI are excited to host the return of Geekend, Qatar’s premier festival celebrating pop-culture and the creative community at the Geekdom Building, Lusail Boulevard. Geekend November 2024 invites artists, fans, creators, and game developers to join a dynamic four-day event designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and dialogue within Qatar’s vibrant creative sector.
This year’s programme features an expanded lineup of engaging activities, with dedicated spaces for creators to connect with fans and showcase their work. Highlights include the Geekend Market, a hub for local artisans, illustrators, and designers, offering an array of exclusive merchandise and artwork that reflects Qatar’s rich cultural diversity. The Game Developers Hub will provide an essential platform for emerging game developers to present their latest projects, share insights, and network with both industry professionals and fans, strengthening the local gaming industry.
Alongside the market and developer showcases, Geekend 2024 will feature immersive workshops led by industry experts, providing practical skills and inspiration to artists at all levels. The popular Escape Room returns, challenging participants with a new narrative experience. Whether it’s through cosplay, gaming, or art, Geekend offers Qatar’s creative community an opportunity to celebrate their passions and connect meaningfully with like-minded individuals.
Geekend 2024 continues Ajyal’s and Doha Film Institute’s dedication to supporting and elevating local talent and fostering a creative ecosystem in Qatar. By offering an inclusive space for artists, creators, and fans, Geekend contributes to the development of a thriving creative culture in the region.