Dr. Oğuzhan leads international awareness project reaching 59 countries

Watching a film is often assumed to be an experience that begins with the eyes. Yet some stories go beyond images and require us to listen to a voice, a feeling, a touch, or the quietness of a life that often goes unnoticed. Organized under the theme “Change Your Perspective” the “International I See Short Film Competition” sought to engage audiences precisely at this point, approaching the world of visually impaired individuals through the language of cinema. 

The competition was led by Assist. Prof. Esra Oğuzhan of the School of Communication at Istanbul Medipol University and organized in cooperation with the Parla Social Responsibility Platform and the Turkish Association of the Visually Impaired (TÜRGED). The event attracted significant international interest, receiving 148 short film submissions from 59 countries across four continents. Evaluated by a jury composed of actors, directors, and screenwriters, the films portrayed the participation of visually impaired individuals in daily life, the obstacles they encounter, their hopes, and their connections with society through narratives originating from diverse geographical regions.

DR. OĞUZHAN: ART IS A VERY IMPORTANT TOOL FOR SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION
Assist. Prof. Esra Oğuzhan, the project coordinator of the competition, emphasized that the initiative was driven by a purpose far greater than presenting awards. Stating that the project was launched to touch the lives of visually impaired individuals, amplify their voices, and strengthen empathy within society, Oğuzhan said:

“When we initiated this project, our goal was not merely to present awards, but to touch the lives of visually impaired individuals, make their voices heard by wider audiences, and strengthen empathy within society.” Oğuzhan added that the short films submitted to the competition once again demonstrated that barriers can be overcome through love, understanding, and solidarity.

Highlighting the role of art in social transformation, she continued:

“As an academic and someone devoted to social responsibility initiatives, I believe that art is an extremely important tool for social transformation. Every story told through these short films reminded us once again of the importance of building an accessible, inclusive, and equitable society.”

FIRST PRIZE AWARDED TO “HAKIKAT”
The winning productions among the entries submitted from various countries were also announced. Director İdil Berk won first prize with the film Hakikat. The second prize was awarded to producer Feyzi Baran and advisor Kamil Kahraman for Solo, while third prize went to Habib Yücel for Göz Susunca.

PARLA’S PROJECTS THAT TOUCH CHILDREN’S LIVES
The Parla Social Responsibility Platform continues its work for visually impaired individuals through a variety of initiatives. The platform brings students together with music through rhythm and percussion workshops. In its ceramics workshops, children are given opportunities to connect with art by touching, feeling, and creating.

Through these activities, Parla supports children's participation in social life and has expanded its awareness efforts to an international scale through the “International I See Short Film Competition.”