American film expert Lisa Leeman concluded a cultural exchange and capacity-building program in the West Bank and Gaza on November 7. The initiative, which lasted seven days, was aimed at documentary filmmaking and storytelling. It benefited 150 Palestinian filmmakers, students, and youth. The U.S. Office of Palestinian Affairs (OPA) collaborated with the American Film Showcase (AFS) and Palestine Cinema Club to host this event.
The program took place in Ramallah and Bethlehem, where it served both emerging and advanced Palestinian filmmakers as well as students. Leeman shared her experiences as a woman in the filmmaking industry, providing mentorship to participants. She also conducted a full-day workshop on documentary filmmaking for more experienced filmmakers, including virtual sessions with Gazan filmmakers.
Counselor for Public Affairs at OPA Carissa Gonzalez stated, “We’re very excited to have Lisa here, engaging with Palestinian filmmakers, and exchanging knowledge and skills... We’re happy to be able to see this cultural exchange happen.”
Lisa Leeman expressed her enthusiasm about the program: “American Film Showcase gives filmmakers around the world a chance to meet, learn about each other’s cultures... In discussing our mutual films, cultural barriers can melt.”
Sawsan Qaoud, Director of the Palestine Cinema Club, highlighted the benefits of the program: “This program opened new horizons for the Palestinian filmmakers participating in it... For Palestine Cinema Club, acquaintance with new cultures through cinema is necessary to reach the world.”
The AFS is a key film diplomacy initiative by the U.S. State Department that organizes screenings and workshops globally. It aims to provide insights into American culture while empowering local filmmakers worldwide.
For further details or inquiries regarding this initiative, interested parties are encouraged to contact USPalestinianAffairs@state.gov.