Reimagining Public Health

Malawi, like many other countries, has faced significant challenges related to tobacco use. Tobacco is a major contributor to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) globally. According to reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other sources:

1. Malawi has had a relatively high prevalence of tobacco use, with smoking being a common habit among adults. Both cigarette smoking and smokeless tobacco use contribute to overall tobacco consumption.

2. Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and various types of cancer. The health impact extends beyond smokers to affect non-smokers through exposure to second-hand smoke.

3. One of the challenges in Malawi is the economic dependency on tobacco farming. Tobacco has traditionally been a major cash crop, contributing significantly to the country's economy. However, this economic reliance can create barriers to implementing effective tobacco control measures.

4. The public health context is alarming, with approximately 8 million people globally succumbing to smoking-related illnesses annually. Malawi, in particular, lacks a tobacco harm reduction policy, making it imperative to address this issue. The festival aims to highlight the devastating impact of tobacco use, not only on smokers but also on non-smokers, particularly children exposed to second-hand smoke.

5. Malawi faces challenges in implementing comprehensive tobacco control policies. In the past, there has been limited regulation and control over tobacco production and marketing, making it challenging to address the health impact of tobacco use.

6. The tobacco industry has historically played a significant role in Malawi, and the country has been a target for tobacco companies. Industry influence can hinder the implementation of public health measures to reduce tobacco use

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including implementing and enforcing comprehensive tobacco control policies, diversifying the agricultural economy to reduce dependency on tobacco farming, and raising awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use. 

The Nyasa International Film Festival (NIFF) is a groundbreaking initiative designed to address public health issues, particularly tobacco harm reduction, through the impactful medium of short films. The core of NIFF involves training journalists and filmmakers in Malawi on the intricacies of tobacco harm reduction. These skilled individuals are then challenged to create films that propose solutions to this public health challenge, with a specific focus on vulnerable groups such as women, children, and refugees.

To ensure widespread engagement, the festival takes a unique approach by showcasing the films in various communities, including the Dzaleka refugee camp. The festival is strategically located in Malawi's capital, bringing together government ministries, diplomatic representatives, and key stakeholders. However, its heart lies in Dzaleka, where the films are screened at the Main Ground, directly involving the refugee community in the festival narrative.

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of NIFF, and this is exemplified by actively engaging Dzaleka filmmakers in the content creation process. By doing so, NIFF not only recognises local talent but also ensures the authenticity of the films, aligning them with the unique experiences of the refugee community. This collaboration fosters diversity, enriches cultural exchange, and turns the film festival into a powerful advocate for refugee public health issues.

The screening at Dzaleka Main Ground is more than an event; it's a catalyst for community-building. It encourages social cohesion, mutual understanding, and cultural exchange. The festival becomes a platform for dialogue, a celebration of shared humanity, and a powerful ally in advocating for awareness about refugee public health challenges. This aligns seamlessly with the broader goals of humanitarian organizations like Plan International, contributing to a more inclusive and empathetic global narrative.

Technologically, NIFF relies on traditional filmmaking tools and techniques. The power of storytelling through film is harnessed to convey the messages effectively. The use of digital platforms for screening extends the reach, ensuring that these films resonate not only within the camp but also far beyond, creating a positive ripple effect in public awareness and understanding.

In summary, the Nyasa International Film Festival is not just a film screening event; it's a transformative initiative that leverages the creative arts to address public health challenges, promote inclusivity, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities, ultimately contributing to positive societal change.

The Nyasa International Film Festival (NIFF) serves a diverse range of populations in Malawi, particularly those affected by tobacco-related health challenges, with a specific emphasis on women, children, and refugees. Each segment of this target population faces unique health disparities and challenges that the festival aims to address through the transformative power of short films.

1. Women: Women in Malawi, as in many other parts of the world, often face distinct health challenges related to tobacco use. The NIFF seeks to directly impact the lives of women by addressing tobacco harm reduction in a way that is culturally sensitive and resonant with their experiences. Women are frequently underserved in public health campaigns, and the festival aims to bridge this gap by creating content that is tailored to their needs and experiences.

2. Children: Children represent a vulnerable demographic affected by the pervasive impact of tobacco use. Second-hand smoke and exposure to tobacco-related illnesses can have profound and lasting effects on their health. NIFF aims to directly impact children's lives by creating films that raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco and advocate for harm reduction measures. By engaging children through the creative medium of short films, the festival endeavors to empower them with knowledge that can influence their behavior and shape a tobacco-free future.

3. Refugees: The refugee community, particularly in the Dzaleka camp, faces unique challenges, including limited access to resources, employment opportunities, and extracurricular activities. In such circumstances, tobacco use can become a coping mechanism, further exacerbating health issues. The festival directly serves refugees by bringing the transformative experience of film to their community. By actively involving Dzaleka filmmakers in the content creation process, NIFF ensures that the stories told are authentic and resonate with the experiences of the refugee population. 

4. Current Underservice: The underservice in this context stems from a lack of tailored, culturally relevant health information and advocacy efforts. Traditional public health campaigns often overlook the unique needs and perspectives of women, children, and refugees. NIFF addresses this gap by using the universal language of storytelling through film, making health information more accessible and engaging for these underserved populations. 

5. Addressing Needs: NIFF addresses the needs of its target population by not only disseminating information but by actively involving them in the creation of content. By training journalists and filmmakers, the festival ensures that the narratives are authentic, culturally sensitive, and resonant with the experiences of the women, children, and refugees it aims to serve. Through screenings in their communities, including the heart of the Dzaleka refugee camp, NIFF fosters a sense of ownership, inclusion, and empowerment, directly impacting lives by providing a platform for awareness, dialogue, and positive behavioural change.

In summary, the Nyasa International Film Festival directly and meaningfully improves the lives of women, children, and refugees in Malawi by addressing the unique challenges they face in relation to tobacco harm. The festival's impact is multi-faceted, encompassing awareness, empowerment, cultural exchange, and advocacy, ultimately contributing to positive societal change in these underserved communities.

I am well-positioned to deliver the Nyasa International Film Festival (NIFF) solution as the Team Lead, given my direct involvement with the Dzaleka refugee camp since 2019. My proximity to the community has allowed me to deeply understand and empathize with the public health challenges faced by the residents. Having worked at the camp for several years, I have developed strong relationships and gained the trust of the community, positioning me as a credible and respected figure.

Our team is not just a group of organizers; it is a collective of individuals who are representative of the communities we aim to serve. We understand the unique dynamics, cultural nuances, and challenges faced by women, children, and refugees in the camp. Our team members are drawn from diverse backgrounds, including individuals with direct experience in the camp, ensuring that our perspectives are informed by the community's realities.

The design and implementation of the NIFF solution are meaningfully guided by the input, ideas, and agendas of the communities we serve. We believe in a participatory approach that involves community members in decision-making processes. The choice of addressing public health challenges through a film festival was informed by the success of similar initiatives in the past, demonstrating our responsiveness to the community's needs and preferences.

Importantly, our team is not just about delivering solutions to the community but actively involving them in the process. The use of local filmmakers from Dzaleka ensures that the stories told are authentic and resonate with the experiences of the refugee population. This approach fosters a sense of ownership, inclusion, and empowerment, ensuring that the films become a reflection of the community's voice and concerns.

The team's composition includes dedicated volunteers with expertise in publicity, marketing, and protocol. These volunteers are not only committed to the success of the project but also bring diverse skills that enhance the overall effectiveness of our initiatives. With over 90 volunteers on board, we have a robust support system that ensures the smooth execution of the NIFF, making it a community-driven and community-led effort.

In summary, our team's unique strength lies in our direct connection to the communities we serve, particularly the Dzaleka refugee camp. We are not outsiders imposing solutions but insiders who understand the intricacies and challenges faced by the target population. The NIFF solution is a testament to our commitment to community-driven initiatives, where the input and involvement of the communities shape the design and impact of the project.

Nyasa International Film Festival is currently piloting this technology by implementing a project, Innovate to Thrive in Tobacco Harm Reduction.

The "Innovate to Thrive in Tobacco Harm Reduction" project has made substantial progress across various key aspects of its implementation, demonstrating a commitment to creating awareness and promoting tobacco harm reduction (THR) through short film festivals.

Festival Organization and Volunteer Recruitment: The project initiated with the recruitment of five core volunteers, strategically assigned to marketing, communication, and graphic design roles. Subsequently, the volunteer base expanded to over 90 individuals, with a focus on key areas such as marketing, publicity, and event management. This expansion reflects a robust volunteer network contributing to the effective organization of the festival.

Partnerships: Strategic partnerships have been established to enhance the project's success. These include collaborations with the Department of Arts for government endorsement, the Malawi Censorship Board for film classification, and Cinematic for facilitating screenings. Noteworthy partnerships with musicians and entertainers contribute to the overall appeal and engagement during the award night.

Pending Partnerships: The project is actively pursuing additional partnerships with organizations such as the Agriculture Transformation Initiative, Moving Minds, Banja la Mtsogolo, InnoBuild, and Raymka Construction. These potential collaborations aim to further extend the project's reach and offer additional rewards for participants, indicating a forward-looking approach to project sustainability.

Training Workshops: Two training workshops were successfully conducted in both Lilongwe and Blantyre to empower journalists and filmmakers with essential THR information and documentary production skills. This inclusive approach ensures accessibility for participants in both cities, optimizing cost-effectiveness and maximizing the impact of the training.

Knowledge Action Change (KAC) Collaboration: Throughout the project, deliberate efforts have been made to acknowledge the valuable contribution of Knowledge Action Change (KAC) in various publicity materials. This recognition serves to strengthen the collaboration and raise awareness about the organization's role in the project.

Additional Partnerships and Collaborations: The project has fostered collaborations with organizations such as Jacaranda Cultural Centre in Blantyre, providing space for festival activities and the first workshop. Partnerships with THR scholars for workshop facilitation, Umatha Daily for social media visibility, and Neptune Production and Animal Lab contribute additional skills and professional production opportunities for winners, enriching the project's overall impact.

Film Screening: The project successfully conducted the initial screening at the Dzaleka Refugee Camp, receiving positive engagement from the audience. The community's request for an outdoor screening highlights the project's resonance within the community and the potential for increased reach.

In conclusion, the "Innovate to Thrive in Tobacco Harm Reduction" project has achieved significant milestones in organizing the festival, recruiting and managing volunteers, forming strategic partnerships, conducting training workshops, and promoting THR content. These accomplishments underscore the project's effectiveness in creating awareness and fostering positive change through the dynamic platform of short film festivals.

We are applying to Solve because we believe the program's support can significantly contribute to overcoming specific challenges faced by the "Reimagining Public Health, especially focusing on Tobacco Harm Reduction" project, particularly in the areas of financial sustainability, legal registration, and digital marketing skills.

Financial Support: Financially, as a lead person and a scholar of Tobacco Harm Reduction, I am currently utilizing my scholarship stipend to finance the project activities. While this stipend has been a valuable resource, additional financial support would alleviate the burden and enable the project to scale its impact. Solve's assistance in connecting the project with potential financial partners or providing non-monetary support such as mentorship and resources could significantly contribute to the sustainability and expansion of the project.

Legal Registration: The project has initiated the process of applying for registration for the Nyasa International Film Festival. However, legal advice and guidance are essential during the registration process, especially in navigating potential challenges. Solve's network of legal experts and resources could provide valuable assistance in ensuring a smooth and legally sound registration process for the festival. Additionally,  review and guidance on developing legal documentation, such as memorandums of understanding, would be highly beneficial.

Digital Marketing Skills: The project has entered into a partnership with Marketing Machine to provide marketing solutions during the pilot phase of the Nyasa International Film Festival. However, there is a recognized need for additional skills in digital marketing to effectively promote the festival, reach a wider audience, and maximize its impact. Solve's network of experts and potential collaborators in the digital marketing space could provide invaluable mentorship and training to enhance the project team's capabilities in this crucial area.

In summary, the "Innovate to Thrive in Tobacco Harm Reduction" project seeks Solve's support to address financial challenges, navigate the legal registration process, and acquire essential digital marketing skills. While financial assistance is a component, the project also values non-monetary support, mentorship, and access to a network of experts that can contribute to the project's overall success and sustainability.

The Nyasa International Film Festival's approach to addressing the issue of tobacco harm reduction is innovative in several ways:

1. Creative Medium for Social Change:

   • Innovation: The use of short films as a medium for conveying critical public health messages is innovative. By combining storytelling with public health advocacy, the festival engages audiences emotionally and intellectually, creating a powerful impact on their perceptions and behaviors.
   • Broader Impact: This approach can catalyze broader positive impacts by inspiring other organizations and initiatives to explore creative mediums for health-related awareness. It encourages the integration of art and storytelling into public health campaigns, making information more accessible and relatable.

2. Community Engagement and Inclusivity:

   • Innovation: The festival's emphasis on community engagement, particularly in areas like the Dzaleka Refugee Camp, is innovative. By actively involving local filmmakers and showcasing films within the community, it ensures inclusivity and authenticity in addressing public health issues.
   • Broader Impact: This approach can change the landscape by setting a precedent for community-focused health initiatives. It demonstrates that impactful solutions must be contextually relevant and inclusive, inspiring other projects to prioritize community engagement in their interventions.

3. Multidisciplinary Collaboration:

   • Innovation: The project's collaboration with THR Scholars, seasoned filmmakers, journalists, and advocates showcases a multidisciplinary approach to addressing tobacco harm reduction. This collaboration ensures a holistic understanding of the issue and enriches the quality of the content produced.
   • Broader Impact: The emphasis on collaboration can catalyze positive impacts by encouraging other projects and organizations to adopt multidisciplinary approaches in addressing complex health challenges. It promotes the idea that diverse expertise enhances the effectiveness of interventions.

4. Digital Platforms for Outreach:

   • Innovation: Leveraging online and digital platforms for reaching a wider audience is an innovative strategy. The project recognizes the importance of technology in disseminating information and engages with diverse audiences through scalable and accessible digital channels.
   • Broader Impact: This approach can change the market landscape by showcasing the effectiveness of digital platforms in health communication. It encourages other initiatives to explore digital outreach strategies, expanding the reach of health messages to diverse demographics.

5. Long-Term Impact and Sustainability:

   • Innovation: The project's focus on creating lasting impact through knowledge dissemination, article publication, and continued advocacy demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. It recognizes that long-term change requires persistent efforts beyond the immediate festival.
   • Broader Impact: This emphasis on sustainability can influence the market by inspiring other projects to incorporate long-term impact strategies into their interventions. It sets a standard for initiatives to plan for sustained positive change in attitudes and behaviors.

Overall, the Nyasa International Film Festival's innovative approach lies in its integration of creative storytelling, community engagement, multidisciplinary collaboration, digital outreach, and a commitment to long-term impact. By pioneering these innovative strategies, the project has the potential to catalyze positive changes in how public health challenges are addressed, influencing others in the space to adopt more effective and inclusive approaches.

Theory of Change for the Nyasa International Film Festival: Innovate to Thrive in Tobacco Harm Reduction

1. Activities:

   • Organizing Film Festival: The project will organize an annual film festival, featuring short films created by journalists and filmmakers focusing on tobacco harm reduction (THR) and alternatives.
   • Capacity Building Workshops: Conducting workshops to empower journalists and filmmakers with in-depth knowledge about THR through collaboration with THR Scholars and seasoned filmmakers.
   • Content Creation Challenge: Challenging participants to create compelling content promoting THR, forming the backbone of the Nyasa Short Film Festival.

2. Outputs:

   • Short Films: Creation of a minimum of 10 short films addressing THR, showcasing creative solutions and alternative perspectives on tobacco use.
   • Educated Participants: Journalists and filmmakers equipped with knowledge and skills to effectively communicate THR messages through their work.
   • Public Engagement: Film screenings in various locations, reaching an estimated 500,000 people online and digitally, fostering a deeper understanding of THR.

3. Immediate Outcomes:

   • Increased Awareness: The short films, distributed through the festival, will raise awareness about the risks of tobacco use and promote harm reduction strategies.
   • Empowered Filmmakers and Journalists: Participants will become advocates for THR, disseminating crucial information to diverse audiences through their creative work.
   • Informed Public: The audience, both online and at physical screenings, will gain a profound understanding of THR, contributing to a shift in perceptions and attitudes.

4. Intermediate Outcomes:

   • Behavioral Change: Increased awareness and understanding of THR will lead to behavioral changes, encouraging individuals to consider harm reduction alternatives.
   • Community Involvement: Ongoing community engagement and workshops will foster a sense of ownership and collective responsibility, creating a community actively involved in public health dialogues.
   • Collaborative Efforts: Multidisciplinary collaboration and partnerships will strengthen efforts to address tobacco-related health challenges comprehensively.

5. Long-Term Outcomes:

   • Sustainable Impact: The project's emphasis on long-term impact through continued knowledge dissemination, article publication, and advocacy will contribute to sustained positive change in attitudes and behaviors related to tobacco use.
   • Broader Adoption: The innovative approach of using short films for public health awareness, community engagement, and collaboration will inspire other projects to adopt similar strategies, creating a ripple effect in the broader landscape of health communication and tobacco harm reduction initiatives.

By integrating creative storytelling, community engagement, and multidisciplinary collaboration, the Nyasa International Film Festival aims to not only disseminate information about tobacco harm reduction but also inspire lasting changes in behavior and societal attitudes, fostering a healthier and more informed community in the long run.

Impact Goals for the Nyasa International Film Festival: Innovate to Thrive in Tobacco Harm Reduction

1. Increased Awareness and Understanding:

   • Impact Goal: Raise awareness and understanding of tobacco harm reduction (THR) among the target audience.
   • Progress Measurement:
     • Number of online and physical attendees at film screenings.
     • Audience feedback and comprehension surveys post-screening.
     • Online engagement metrics, including views, shares, and comments on digital platforms.

2. Behavioral Change and Adoption of Harm Reduction Practices:

   • Impact Goal: Encourage behavioral change towards adopting harm reduction practices.
   • Progress Measurement:
     • Surveys and interviews assessing changes in attitudes and behaviors related to tobacco use pre- and post-festival.
     • Monitoring the engagement and participation of community members in workshops and post-festival initiatives.
     • Tracking community-driven projects or initiatives inspired by the festival.

3. Community Involvement and Ownership:

   • Impact Goal: Foster community involvement and a sense of ownership in addressing tobacco-related health challenges.
   • Progress Measurement:
     • Number of community members actively participating in workshops, discussions, and other festival-related activities.
     • Community-led initiatives or projects addressing public health issues.
     • Observations and qualitative assessments of community engagement during and after the festival.

4. Multidisciplinary Collaboration:

   • Impact Goal: Promote multidisciplinary collaboration for a comprehensive approach to tobacco harm reduction.
   • Progress Measurement:
     • Number of partnerships formed with THR Scholars, filmmakers, journalists, advocates, and other stakeholders.
     • Assessments of collaborative efforts in the creation of short films and other festival-related activities.
     • Documentation of knowledge-sharing sessions and collaborative projects initiated as a result of the festival.

5. Sustainable Impact and Long-Term Change:

   • Impact Goal: Achieve sustainable impact by fostering long-term change in societal attitudes and behaviors related to tobacco use.
   • Progress Measurement:
     • Continued dissemination of articles and knowledge beyond the festival.
     • Monitoring the persistence of behavioral changes through follow-up surveys or interviews.
     • Documentation of sustained community engagement in tobacco harm reduction initiatives post-festival.

These impact goals are measured through a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including surveys, interviews, observational assessments, and ongoing documentation of community-led efforts and collaborative projects. The emphasis is on capturing both immediate and enduring effects, ensuring that the Nyasa International Film Festival contributes to transformative and sustained positive impacts on individuals and communities in the realm of tobacco harm reduction.

The Nyasa International Film Festival (NIFF) leverages technology as a key component of its solution to address the critical issue of tobacco harm reduction. While the primary focus is on the creative medium of short films, technology plays a pivotal role in multiple aspects of the project:

1. Digital Platforms for Outreach:

   • Utilization: NIFF harnesses online and digital platforms to reach a wider audience, disseminating crucial information about tobacco harm reduction globally.
   • Benefits: The use of technology allows for scalable and accessible distribution of short films, maximizing the impact of public health messages and raising awareness on a broader scale.

2. Educational Initiatives through Digital Means:

   • Capacity Building Workshops: Technology facilitates the organization of comprehensive workshops, empowering journalists and filmmakers with in-depth knowledge about tobacco harm reduction and its alternatives.
   • Knowledge Dissemination: Educational resources, materials, and information are disseminated digitally, ensuring widespread access to knowledge and fostering a community of advocates for tobacco harm reduction.

3. Film Submissions and Selection Process:

   • Digital Submissions: Filmmakers can submit their short films digitally, streamlining the submission process and enabling participation from diverse geographical locations.
   • Online Selection: The use of technology enables efficient film selection processes, ensuring a diverse and impactful lineup for the Nyasa Short Film Festival.

4. Virtual Film Screenings:

   • Online and Digital Platforms: In addition to physical screenings in various locations, the festival incorporates virtual screenings, allowing a broader audience to engage with the films from the comfort of their homes.
   • Global Reach: Virtual screenings leverage technology to transcend geographical barriers, reaching audiences worldwide and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

5. Digital Marketing and Promotion:

   • Social Media Visibility: NIFF utilizes social media platforms for marketing and promotion, creating a digital presence to attract a diverse audience.
   • Online Advertising: Digital marketing strategies enhance visibility, ensuring the festival's message and purpose reach a wide range of individuals interested in public health and creative expression.

6. Digital Metrics for Impact Measurement:

   • Online Analytics: Technology facilitates the collection and analysis of online metrics, including views, shares, and comments, providing valuable insights into the impact of the short films and the festival as a whole.

By integrating technology into various facets of the Nyasa International Film Festival, the project not only amplifies the reach and impact of its advocacy for tobacco harm reduction but also exemplifies how innovative solutions can leverage digital tools for global outreach, education, and positive societal change.

We have two permanent staff as founders. We have 93 volunteers working in areas of publicity, marketing, and event protocol. We have partnered with Marketing Machines to work towards marketing the event; a team of four people is working towards the festival.

one year

The Nyasa International Film Festival (NIFF) is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment within its team. Key initiatives and practices include:

1. Diverse Leadership:

   • The leadership team of NIFF is intentionally diverse, comprising individuals from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity enriches decision-making processes and ensures a broad range of ideas and insights.

2. Equal Opportunities:

   • NIFF is dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all team members, regardless of their background, gender, or other characteristics. The organization promotes an inclusive culture that values each team member's unique contributions.

3. Goals for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

   • NIFF has established clear goals for enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the team. These goals are regularly revisited and updated to align with the organization's commitment to creating a workplace that reflects and respects the diversity of the community it serves.

4. Recruitment Practices:

   • The organization employs inclusive recruitment practices to attract a diverse pool of candidates for various roles. These practices focus on eliminating biases and ensuring that opportunities are accessible to individuals from all backgrounds.

5. Training and Awareness:

   • NIFF conducts training sessions and awareness programs to educate team members about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. These initiatives aim to create a shared understanding and commitment among team members.

6. Open Communication:

   • An environment of open communication is fostered, encouraging team members to share their perspectives and raise awareness of any concerns related to diversity, equity, or inclusion. Regular check-ins and forums for discussion contribute to a culture of mutual respect.

7. Flexible and Inclusive Policies:

   • NIFF has implemented flexible and inclusive policies that accommodate the diverse needs of its team members. This includes considerations for different working styles, family structures, and individual circumstances.

8. Feedback Mechanisms:

   • The organization actively seeks feedback from team members regarding their experiences and suggestions for improvement. Feedback mechanisms help identify areas for enhancement and ensure ongoing commitment to a diverse and inclusive workplace.

9. Celebrating Differences:

   • NIFF celebrates the differences among team members, recognizing that diversity is a strength. The organization encourages an environment where individuals feel valued and appreciated for their unique contributions.

10. Continuous Improvement:

    • NIFF acknowledges that diversity, equity, and inclusion are ongoing commitments. The organization is dedicated to continuous improvement, regularly assessing its practices and adapting strategies to foster an increasingly inclusive workplace.

Through these intentional efforts, NIFF aims to build a team culture that reflects the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that everyone associated with the organization feels welcome, respected, and empowered.

The Nyasa International Film Festival has a dual-fold business model that revolves around providing information for social change and offering media training and consultancy services. This multifaceted approach positions the festival as both a catalyst for awareness and a hub for developing skills and expertise in the media industry.

1. Providing Information for Social Change:

• Objective: The primary goal of this aspect of the business model is to disseminate information and drive social change, particularly in the realm of tobacco harm reduction.
• Activities:
  • Film Festival: Organizing and hosting an annual film festival centered around critical themes, such as "Innovate to Thrive in Tobacco Harm Reduction," to use the creative medium of short films for public awareness and education.
  • Content Creation: Encouraging filmmakers and journalists to create compelling content that promotes tobacco harm reduction and alternative approaches.
  • Workshops: Conducting capacity-building workshops for journalists and filmmakers to empower them with in-depth knowledge about tobacco harm reduction and its alternatives.

2. Media Training and Consultancy Services:

• Objective: This facet of the business model aims to provide training and consultancy services to individuals and organizations interested in various aspects of the media industry.
• Training Focus Areas:
  • Creative Marketing: Offering training sessions on creative marketing strategies, emphasizing innovative approaches to reach and engage audiences.
  • Filmmaking: Providing workshops and training programs to enhance filmmaking skills, covering aspects such as scriptwriting, cinematography, and post-production.
  • Film Distribution: Imparting knowledge on effective film distribution strategies, ensuring that filmmakers understand how to bring their creations to a wider audience.

Revenue Streams:

• Festival Sponsorship: Securing sponsorships from organizations, businesses, and government entities to support the festival's execution. Sponsorship packages can include branding opportunities, promotional materials, and exclusive partnerships.
• Training and Consultancy Fees: Charging fees for the media training and consultancy services provided, creating a revenue stream that sustains the project and supports its growth.
• Ticket Sales: Generating revenue through ticket sales for the film festival, with different pricing tiers based on access levels and offerings.
• Partnerships: Establishing partnerships with institutions, NGOs, and businesses for joint initiatives, co-branded events, and collaborative projects.

Impact Metrics:

• Audience Reach: Measuring the number of individuals reached through online and offline platforms, including festival screenings and digital content.
• Training Participants: Tracking the number of participants engaged in media training and consultancy services, evaluating the impact on their skills and knowledge.
• Film Production: Monitoring the number of films created through the festival and assessing their quality and relevance to the chosen themes.
• Awareness and Advocacy: Assessing the impact of the festival on raising awareness about tobacco harm reduction through media coverage, articles, and social media engagement.

This dual-fold business model enables the Nyasa International Film Festival to not only contribute to social change but also create a sustainable and impactful venture by providing valuable media training and consultancy services to individuals and organizations.

The Nyasa International Film Festival has developed a comprehensive plan for financial sustainability, leveraging a combination of revenue streams to cover expected expenses and ensure long-term viability. Our approach encompasses a mix of sponsorships, training and consultancy fees, ticket sales, and strategic partnerships:

1. Festival Sponsorship:

• Strategy: Secure sponsorships from diverse sources, including businesses, organizations, and government entities, by offering tailored sponsorship packages with various benefits.
• Evidence of Success: As of the current stage, the project has initiated partnerships with the Department of Arts for government endorsement and is actively pursuing collaborations with entities such as Raymka Construction and Marketing Machine.

2. Training and Consultancy Fees:

• Strategy: Charge fees for media training and consultancy services, providing participants with valuable skills while generating revenue for sustained project operations.
• Evidence of Success: While specific revenue figures are not provided, the project has conducted successful training workshops in Lilongwe and Blantyre, demonstrating an initial implementation of this revenue stream.

3. Ticket Sales:

• Strategy: Generate revenue through ticket sales for the film festival, offering different pricing tiers to accommodate various access levels and services.
• Evidence of Success: The project has conducted an initial screening at the Dzaleka Refugee Camp, indicating the potential for ticket sales in the future.

4. Partnerships and Collaborations:

• Strategy: Establish partnerships with organizations, NGOs, and businesses for joint initiatives, co-branded events, and collaborative projects to diversify revenue streams.
• Evidence of Success: The project has formed collaborations with entities such as Jacaranda Cultural Centre and THR scholars, showcasing an active effort in building strategic partnerships.

5. Pending Partnerships:

• Strategy: Pursue additional partnerships with organizations such as the Agriculture Transformation Initiative, Moving Minds, Banja la Mtsogolo, InnoBuild, and Raymka Construction to enhance the project's reach and rewards for participants.
• Evidence of Progress: Ongoing efforts indicate a proactive approach to expanding partnerships, contributing to the potential success of the project.

6. Publicity and Marketing Opportunities:

• Strategy: Offer opportunities for businesses to enhance their visibility through the festival, creating sponsorship packages that include branding and promotional materials.
• Evidence of Success: The project has initiated a partnership with Marketing Machine to provide marketing solutions during the pilot phase, showcasing a proactive approach to enhance visibility and potentially attract sponsors.

While specific financial figures are not disclosed, the Nyasa International Film Festival has demonstrated proactive steps in implementing its financial sustainability plan. The evidence of partnerships, collaborations, and the initiation of revenue-generating activities underscores the project's commitment to creating a robust and sustainable financial model. As the project progresses, further success and impact can be expected through the continued implementation of these strategies.