ABOUT

SIFFA is a non-profit organisation originally designed to celebrate lifetime or career contributions to cultural dialogues and bridge building through the language of cinema, art and literature and the awards have been given to individual works since 2006.

SIFFA is bringing to the UK cinema lovers’ films that they are not able to see anywhere else in this country. At the special Poetry, Literature and Art events SIFFA contributes to the communities’ understanding of different cultures and backgrounds.

SIFFA sees its mission in to building cultural bridges across the world; to tell the stories of those countries and to promote the universal appeal of the visual narrative, human experiences and dramatic interpretation; and to impart a powerful message of hope for humankind. We support British and International filmmakers and help them to be discovered by the representatives of the world film industry; we create opportunities for international co-production.

Cinema has the power to change opinions and attitudes, create an atmosphere of harmony and peace and touch people of all ethnicities in a human way that reminds us that there is more that connects us than divides us emotionally, spiritually and culturally.

Within the framework of the festival there is an educational element including presentations and masterclasses and a concert programme.

Join the SIFFA celebration of cinema with your entry and grace us with your presence as we show the rest of the world how to display open minds and hearts of gold on the silver screen.

SIFFA awards are held in London annually in the third week of November, following the festival. It is a cinematic award which is normally awarded in 15 categories:

  • Best Film

  • Best Director

  • Best Actor/Actress

  • Best Screenplay

  • Best Cinematography

  • Best Costume Design

  • Jury Award

  • Audience Award

  • Best Montage/Editing Award

  • Best Score (or Best Original Score)

  • Best Documentary

  • Best Short Film

  • Vera Glagoleva’s Award for Best Debut Film

  • Mohy Quandour’s Award for Best Youth Focused Film

  • SIFFA’ President Award (is the most prestigious award and presented by the SIFFA Founder and President to the Best Film in any categories to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the SIFFA Festival concept through the cinema). President Award can be presented to the outstanding SIFFA partner of the year.

  • SIFFA also presents Special awards to individuals for their contribution and life achievements in cinema, literature and art.

The SIFFA film award is accompanied by a public screening of competitive films in three categories: feature, documentaries, shorts.

SIFFA FESTIVAL TEAM

Behind SIFFA’s mission and spirit stands a passionate team of professionals, artists, and cultural ambassadors dedicated to promoting meaningful cinema and global dialogue. We are committed to the power of cinema as a bridge between people and nations. The SIFFA team works year-round to bring together international talent, foster dialogue, and honour voices that move us, challenge us, and inspire peace through storytelling.

Luba Balagova

President, Film Director & Producer, Visionary founder of SIFFA. Internationally recognised film director, producer, poet, and novelist, devoted to fostering intercultural dialogue through the arts.

Elizabeth Jones

Artistic Director, Legal Advisor & Head of International Cultural Relations. A creative force and experienced legal advisor, Elizabeth helps shape SIFFA’s artistic direction and legal framework. She also leads the festival’s international outreach and cultural partnerships.

Anastasia Ivanova

Executive Director & Festival Coordinator The driving force behind SIFFA’s production and international programming, ensuring every edition is seamless and inspiring.

Larisa Khatsukova

Cultural Partnerships & Community Engagement

A core member of the team, Larisa plays a vital role in cultivating SIFFA’s cultural alliances and fostering meaningful connections with diverse communities.

Charles Stewart

Strategic Advisor & Special Projects. An invaluable contributor to SIFFA’s vision, Charles supports key strategic initiatives and festival development.