The UNHCR x DIMFF Mobile Filmmaking Workshop 2026 officially commenced on 5 June, bringing together some of Bangladesh’s most promising young storytellers for a unique learning experience focused on empathy, ethical storytelling, and mobile filmmaking.

Organised by the Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival (DIMFF) with support from UNHCR Bangladesh and University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB), the workshop is centred on the theme “Forced to Flee”, encouraging participants to explore the human stories behind displacement through the medium of cinema.

Five teams, selected from 22 universities across the country, earned the opportunity to participate in this year’s programme. The participants represent the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, University of Dhaka, Daffodil International University, North South University, and Jahangirnagar University.

The opening day introduced participants to the fundamentals of mobile filmmaking and the responsibilities associated with portraying the experiences of vulnerable communities. Through interactive discussions and practical sessions, students explored how cinema can foster empathy, challenge misconceptions, and amplify voices that are often overlooked.

A key highlight of the workshop was a session conducted by Kevin Lindblom, Associate External Relations Officer at UNHCR Bangladesh. He shared insights into the realities of forced displacement and emphasised the importance of ethical representation when telling stories about displaced people and refugee communities.

Participants engaged in discussions on human dignity, responsible filmmaking, and the role of media in shaping public understanding of displacement and humanitarian issues. The sessions also encouraged students to think critically about the impact of visual storytelling and its ability to build awareness and understanding.

Throughout the day, the young filmmakers exchanged ideas, formed creative collaborations, and began developing story concepts inspired by the workshop’s central theme. The programme aims to combine technical filmmaking skills with a deeper understanding of ethics, empathy, and social responsibility.