CineGouna Shorts proudly announces the winners of its inaugural production grants, this dynamic new section within the industry arm of ElGouna Film Festival; CineGouna, is dedicated to elevating Egyptian short films and championing authentic, local storytelling. This year’s selection, chosen for its artistic innovation and cultural resonance, underscores CineGouna Shorts’ mission to support the unique voices defining Egypt’s cinematic landscape.

Three unique projects are set to receive a generous production grant powered by O West, the fully integrated town by Orascom Development. The selection, made by our esteemed jury members Sherif El Bendary, Sameh Alaa, and May Odeh, came following a pitching session held at El Gouna Film Festival on the 31st of October, attended by a full house of industry professionals.

2024 CineGouna Shorts Production Grants Winners are:

• First Award for 1,000,000 Egyptian Pounds: “In Such Moments, We Cry” directed by Ahmed Sobhy, Produced by Marwa Tammam

• Second Award for 750,000 Egyptian Pounds: “The Last Wish” directed by Hozifa Abdelhalim, Produced by Noura Abdelrahman

• Third Award for 500,000 Egyptian Pounds: “Lemon Trees” directed by Mariam Nasser, Produced by Mohamed Gaber.

In addition to the 3 official awards, the jury has found great potential in one of the competing projects, and has decided to offer a special jury award in the form of mentorship and development sessions to support a promising project. The awarded project is: Dead Tired, directed by Beshoy Youssef and produced by Ramy El Gabry.

This selection of projects reflects a powerful mosaic of Egyptian narratives that push creative boundaries and reveal profound, personal stories. Which aligns with CineGouna Shorts’ dedication to fostering a thriving environment for Egypt’s short film scene, offering award winners and participants opportunities for development, mentorship, and global exposure. This inaugural edition of CineGouna Shorts marks a promising new chapter in Egypt’s filmmaking industry, spotlighting stories that resonate deeply within Egypt and beyond.