JURY 2025

The jury panel for this year’s SIFFA Independent Film Festival in London has been officially revealed, bringing together an exceptional group of international figures in filmmaking, cinematography, and the cultural arts. Reflecting SIFFA’s enduring commitment to promoting peace, cross-cultural dialogue, and artistic excellence, the diverse backgrounds and expertise of the jurors highlight the festival’s mission to unite global voices through the shared language of cinema and celebrate the power of film as a bridge between cultures and perspectives

JURY 2025

The jury panel for this year’s SIFFA Independent Film Festival in London has been officially revealed, bringing together an exceptional group of international figures in filmmaking, cinematography, and the cultural arts. Reflecting SIFFA’s enduring commitment to promoting peace, cross-cultural dialogue, and artistic excellence, the diverse backgrounds and expertise of the jurors highlight the festival’s mission to unite global voices through the shared language of cinema and celebrate the power of film as a bridge between cultures and perspectives

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ISSAM HIJJAWI

Issam Hijjawi is a Jordanian producer and founder of his production company, established in Amman in 2000. With more than two decades of experience in the Arab film and television industry, he has collaborated with some of the region’s most notable directors, including Najdat Anzour, Omar Al-Qattan, and Mohamed Azizia. His company has produced acclaimed feature films such as An Oriental Story as well as a wide range of television dramas, historical series, documentaries, and children’s programming, contributing significantly to the growth of Jordanian and Arab content. Through his work, Hijjawi has built a reputation for supporting ambitious projects that reflect regional culture while reaching international audiences.

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KATIE JARVIS

Katie Jarvis is an English actress best known for her critically acclaimed role as Mia Williams in the 2009 film Fish Tank, which won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival. She has also appeared in the long-running BBC soap opera EastEnders. Jarvis transitioned from a promising acting debut into a successful television career, with her portrayal of complex, powerful characters resonating with audiences. Alongside her acting career, she remains an active participant in the UK entertainment industry.

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ISABELLA MARCHESE RAGONA

Isabella Marchese Ragona is a producer, director, and writer with over 25 years of experience across film, television, and media. She is the founder and CEO of Moving Pictures Media and currently serves as Head of Content and Development for BritAsia TV. Her screen credits include the Lionsgate-released multi-award-winning documentary McQueen, the western Forsaken starring Kiefer and Donald Sutherland and Demi Moore, The Recall with Wesley Snipes, Stranded with Christian Slater, and the documentary Shay Cullen: A Life Story featuring Martin Sheen and the music of Bono. With an extensive background working with global networks such as BBC, HBO, MTV, NBC, and Discovery Channel, Ragona continues to shape bold international projects that bridge independent cinema with mainstream audiences.

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JOEL VAN DER MOLEN

Joel van der Molen is a British filmmaker and actor best known for his award-winning documentary Gypsy Billionaire, which reached No. 1 on Amazon Prime. A graduate of the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art, he began his career in theatre and television before expanding into producing and directing through Vandercom Films. His screen work includes thought-provoking projects such as Fans Only: The Human Side of Porn, alongside a range of independent features and documentaries that explore complex social themes. Combining his background as a performer with his eye for impactful storytelling, van der Molen has established himself as a versatile creative voice in contemporary cinema.

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SIMON DANCZUK

Simon Danczuk is an author and former Member of Parliament. He writes non-fiction and first book, 'Smile for the Camera: The Double Life of Cyril Smith', was The Sunday Times political book of the year. His second book is 'Scandal at Dolphin Square: A Notorious History', and was nominated for a Crime Writer's Association Gold Dagger Award. He's currently working on his third book about a 1980s London serial killer.

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NIVIN EL-GAMAL

Duchess Nivin El-Gamal is an Egyptian-born philanthropist, entrepreneur, and cultural advocate based in the United Kingdom. Trained in fine arts and interior design in London, she built a career in creative industries and authored four books and championed projects that blend art, culture, and humanitarian advocacy. She is the founder of SSAMAC Charity and Duchess Prestige Cosmetics, and serves as a Patron and Ambassador of the Universal Peace Federation. Nivin El-Gamal has been recognised internationally for her leadership and commitment to peace, cultural dialogue, and social justice.

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YVETTE HOYLE

Yvette Hoyle is a British film producer with over two decades of experience in media and business. She is the founder of Golden Apple Films, established in 2019 to develop original features, biopics, and comedies with a strong focus on human rights and social impact. Hoyle has collaborated with renowned actor Armand Assante and producer Ciro Orsini, and her credits span documentaries and feature films including Obama’s Irish Roots, Yulia, Patrick (Disney), and For Love or Money. In addition to her production work, she serves as a trustee of the Armand & Ciro Foundation – Help Children Now, where she spearheaded the campaign to rescue Afghan female cyclists, leading to her upcoming documentary The Warriors: Cycling for Freedom.

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LEMBIT ÖPIK

Lembit Öpik is a British TV Producer and cultural commentator of Estonian heritage. After serving as a Member of Parliament, he established a second career in broadcasting and the arts, becoming a familiar face on television and radio. He has appeared on Have I Got News for You, Question Time, and a wide range of current affairs and entertainment programmes, and has worked as a presenter for BBC Radio and GB News. Öpik has also been active on the live circuit as a stand-up comedian, using wit and storytelling to bridge politics and performance. With his blend of humour, public engagement, and cultural advocacy, he has built a profile that connects media, the arts, and social commentary, bringing a unique perspective to the festival jury.