This Sunday: Festival of Films on Human Trafficking

Sr Marie Power, Rachel Sweetman, Sr Imelda Poole, Jon Hackett, Julian Shaw at BAFTA launch. Image: ICN/JS

The first-ever film festival focussing on human trafficking takes place in central London this Sunday. Organised by Religious in Europe Networking Against Trafficking and Exploitation (RENATE) a number of short documentaries and dramas, will tell people's stories and reveal both the hurdles to tackling the problem and action being taken, particularly by Religious, to respond. All are welcome to attend this free event.

Members of RENATE speaking at the event include Sr Imelda Poole, RENATE's President who is based in Albania, and other Religious who work on the issue. The event will also highlight the hidden and often unnoticed work of Religious across Europe who provide care, protection and rehabilitation for victims.

The Festival will be held 10am - 3pm on Sunday 12 September at the Royal Society of Arts, 12 John Adam Street. London WC2N 6EZ. Two sets of films will be shown: films made by RENATE members and friends of RENATE, and winning films from a recent Film Competition for young people. An Art Exhibition will be on display throughout and refreshments available at lunchtime.

The Festival at the Royal Society of Arts will open with an address from Sr Imelda Poole at 10.30am, followed by film screenings in various rooms and by panel discussions with filmmakers. In the afternoon three winning short films from the recent film competition, produced by 16+ young adults on the topic 'How could we stop Human Trafficking' will be shown. The winners will introduce their films and they will be screened. Certificates and awards will be given out by Renate.

In the evening the Film Festival will continue from 6pm with an event at BAFTA in Piccadilly. This is open to all, but with restricted numbers. The schedule will include a speech by Julian Shaw of BAFTA, the showing of a selection of films, and a RENATE panel, plus refreshments.

To register interest for the BAFTA event email: renate.filmfestival@gmail.com

For more information see: www.renateevents.net