The Egyptian Association of Film Writers and Critics has appointed Ola Elshafey as president of the 42nd edition of the Alexandria Mediterranean Countries Film Festival. The decision was made by the Board of Directors, led by critic Samir Shehata, as part of a comprehensive restructuring plan to preserve the festival's historic standing. The festival, one of Egypt's oldest, highlights the cultural wealth of the Mediterranean Basin.
The 42nd edition of the festival was previously postponed from 2026 to 2027 to allow for necessary institutional reforms. The Egyptian Association for Film Writers and Critics organizes the festival under the auspices of the Ministries of Culture, Information, and Tourism. Ola Elshafey brings extensive experience in film criticism, journalism, and screenwriting, having graduated from the Faculty of Mass Communication and joined the screenwriting department at the Higher Institute of Cinema in 1999.
Ola Elshafey has written several films, including the feature film Land of Girls and short films such as The End of the World and The Wanderers. Her work has earned recognition, with two of her short films winning the Best Short Film award at the National Festival for Cinema. She currently serves as Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Youm7 newspaper and website, and Managing Editor of Al-Ahram newspaper.
In addition to her work in film and journalism, Elshafey has presented several television and radio programs, including A Seat in Front of the Screen and Children of the Country on ON TV, and Art Shop on Radio Masr. She has also participated as a jury member in several international film festivals inside and outside Egypt, bringing a wealth of experience to her new role as festival president.
The Alexandria Mediterranean Countries Film Festival is an annual event that celebrates the cultural richness of the Mediterranean Basin. As president, Ola Elshafey will oversee the festival's 42nd edition, which aims to continue the festival's tradition of showcasing diverse cinematic talent. Her appointment is seen as a strategic move to revitalize and maintain the festival's historic standing.
Ola Elshafey's extensive background in film criticism, journalism, and screenwriting makes her well-suited to lead the festival. Her experience in managing arts pages in major newspapers and magazines, as well as her role in preparing television programs, demonstrates her versatility and expertise in the arts. Her leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the festival.
The appointment of Ola Elshafey as president of the Alexandria Mediterranean Countries Film Festival marks a significant development in Egypt's film industry. With her wealth of experience and expertise, she is poised to make a positive impact on the festival and contribute to its continued success. The festival's 42nd edition is highly anticipated, and Elshafey's leadership is expected to bring new energy and ideas to the event.
Key points
- Ola Elshafey brings extensive experience in film criticism, journalism, and screenwriting to her new role as president of the Alexandria Mediterranean Countries Film Festival.
- The 42nd edition of the festival was postponed to 2027 to allow for necessary institutional reforms.
- The festival is organized under the auspices of the Ministries of Culture, Information, and Tourism.
