Behind the Lens on a Budget
17 February 2026
PACIFIC MEDIA INSTITUTE
My Pacific Story Short Film Competition
The Pacific region is home to vibrant cultures, diverse languages, and deeply rooted traditions, yet many of its stories remain underrepresented in global media. Recognizing the importance of authentic storytelling and the power of independent voices, the Pacific Media Institute (PMI) launched the My Pacific Story Short Film Competition in 2016. Organized in celebration of World Press Freedom Day, this competition is more than a creative contest it is a platform designed to amplify Pacific narratives and highlight the critical role of media freedom in the region.
The competition invites filmmakers to produce short films that focus on life in the Pacific Islands. By encouraging stories grounded in local realities, PMI seeks to strengthen
regional identity and provide audiences with meaningful, culturally resonant content. In partnership with the Republic of China (Taiwan) and supported by organizations such as Microwave Films, the University of the South Pacific Marshall Islands Campus, Six9Too Productions, the Marshall Islands Journal, and Corrieography, the initiative reflects a collaborative effort to nurture creative talent and responsible storytelling across the Pacific.
One of the most compelling aspects of the competition is its emphasis on quality storytelling. Judges will evaluate submissions based on narrative strength, effective use of language, editing, setting, and character development in conveying a true “Pacific Story.”Technical elements such as sound design, filming techniques, and music must enhance rather than distract from the story. Additionally, films are expected to demonstrate creativity and immersive visual and auditory storytelling. These criteria underscore that successful filmmaking requires both artistic vision and technical skills.
Beyond general storytelling excellence, the competition places special importance on media freedom. The Media Freedom Award, which offers a substantial cash prize, will recognize the film that most effectively communicates the importance of media freedom in the Pacific Island region. In many parts of the world, including small island nations, media freedom plays a crucial role in safeguarding democracy, promoting transparency, and ensuring that communities have access to accurate information. By encouraging filmmakers to explore this theme, the competition fosters awareness of journalism’s vital function in society.
The contest also offers attractive prizes for outstanding entries. Awards are presented for first, second, and third place in the Best of Competition category, as well as a dedicated prize for Best Student Film. Importantly, there are no entry fees, making the opportunity accessible to a wide range of participants. Films must be between three and ten minutes in length and completed after October 1, 2025. Acceptable genres include drama,documentary, animation, and comedy, while music videos are not permitted. Submissions must focus on life in the Pacific Islands and be appropriate for family and public viewing.
The competition encourages Indigenous Pacific Island language films, provided they include English subtitles. This requirement both celebrates linguistic diversity and ensures accessibility to broader audiences. Filmmakers are expected to produce original work, create their own stories, and avoid the use of artificial intelligence in production. These guidelines emphasize authenticity, creativity, and integrity in storytelling.
Selected films—up to twenty—will be screened in Majuro in early May to mark World Press Freedom Day. This public screening offers filmmakers not only recognition but also the opportunity to engage with audiences and contribute to important conversations within their communities. The shared experience of viewing these stories together reinforces the power of film as a tool for dialogue and social reflection.
Ultimately, the My Pacific Story Short Film Competition 2026 represents a celebration of Pacific creativity and a call to action for storytellers throughout the region. By combining artistic expression with a commitment to media freedom, the competition empowers filmmakers to tell stories that matter. Through these short films, Pacific voices can be heard more clearly, cultural heritage can be preserved, and the importance of a free and responsible press can be affirmed for generations to come.
For more information: https://acesse.one/qTmBc
