Cineculture – Al-Taqwa College partnership
ACMI's deep and long-term collaboration with Al-Taqwa College is a community-led program that has enabled students to tell their stories, screen their work and have bold and meaningful discussions in our cinemas.
In 2023, the first CineCulture: Cultural Filmmaking Program provided opportunities for deep engagement with one of our regular schools, Al-Taqwa College, a P-12 Islamic educational institute. ACMI reached out to Obayda Kannouj, Victorian Teaching Innovation Fellowship recipient, to ask how we could support her and her students in their ambitious Media Arts project.
Their project came from community consultation and aimed to bridge the cultural divide between generations of migrant families, through the creation of films and podcasts. Students explored many disconnected aspects of their lives: faith, history, culture, and community.
This collaboration has continued annually, and ACMI’s programs are now integral to the project. Together we co-develop their students’ digital skills, screen literacy and celebrate their work with their community in our world class cinema.
In 2024 ACMI and Obayda Kannouj presented the collaboration at the AMAGA national conference, titled UNcommon ground – collisions, convergence, conversations. The seminar showcased how museums can play an important part in rich, community led programs through investing time in relationship building and providing a respectful space.
Student reflections
"This program has helped me connect with my family by helping me appreciate my culture and my roots."
"The ACMI screening made it feel like the film had a lot more significance and a lot more recognition."
Listen to one of the students reflect on their recent ACMI program.
Watch some of the 2023 student films
A window into Bosnian culture
A heartfelt story of immigration, culture and identity – seen through the eyes of a young Bosnian girl. Made by students from Al Taqwa College, 2023.
Beyond Words
A contrasting yet similar view of two boys who try to bridge the gap in language when speaking to their elders. Made by students from Al Taqwa College, 2023.