As part of the Cairo Industry Days activities held within the 46th Cairo International Film Festival, the Open-Air Theatre at the Cairo Opera House hosts today, Sunday, November 16, a discussion session titled “Teen Cinema: The Power of Storytelling and Its Relation to Mental Health,” from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM.
The session is moderated by Sally Zahni, featuring a distinguished panel including Sehar Salah, Amr Salama, Basma Nabil, and Hamza Diab.
This session brings together filmmakers, actors, mental health experts, alongside the attendance of teenagers who share their perspectives and experiences. The aim is to explore how cinema and television can shed light on the complex emotional worlds of this sensitive age group.
The speakers discuss identity issues, social pressures, belonging, and the journey of self-discovery, and how honest and responsible storytelling can contribute to raising awareness about mental health and challenging stereotypes associated with adolescents. The discussion also covers the realism presented by drama compared to the experiences of youth, the portrayal of Arab adolescents on screen, and universal reasons for these narratives across different cultures.
The session provides an interactive space allowing young attendees to express their views, while speakers highlight the role of the seventh art in fostering empathy and understanding between generations, and giving adolescents a voice capable of influencing society and creating a more just and aware image of them.
About Cairo Industry Days
Cairo Industry Days was launched as a dedicated platform to support and develop the film industry in the Arab world and Africa by providing funding, training, and networking opportunities between filmmakers and international experts. The program comprises several key sections, including the Cairo Film Forum, Professionals’ Forum, and specialized workshops. It has become one of the region’s most important professional events, offering genuine opportunities to develop projects and nurture emerging talents.
About Cairo International Film Festival
Cairo International Film Festival is one of the oldest festivals in the Arab world and Africa and one of the most prestigious international festivals accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF). Founded in 1976 and held annually under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture, the festival blends artistic and professional dimensions, making it a foremost platform for intercultural dialogue and enhancing the international presence of Arab cinema.
