The Alexandria International Film Festival will honor the legacy of Dr. Ghada Gabara by naming its “Young Egyptian Filmmakers” competition after her, the Egyptian Film Society announced on Sunday.
The decision, made by the Egyptian Society of Film Writers and Critics under the presidency of film critic Amir Abaza, recognizes Dr. Gabara’s decades-long contribution to Egyptian cinema education and the broader film industry. Dr. Gabara’s career began at the Higher Institute of Cinema, where she excelled in the editing department. She progressed from teaching assistant to professor and head of the department, eventually becoming Dean of the Institute and later, Vice President and then President of the Academy of Arts.
“Here’s a recognition of a career dedicated to nurturing generations of Egyptian filmmakers,” stated the Egyptian Society of Film Writers and Critics in its announcement.
Dr. Gabara’s influence extends beyond academia. She has been a member of the Egyptian Film Syndicate’s board of directors since 2015, serving as First Vice President and since 2023, a member of the board of the Egyptian Society of Film Writers and Critics. Her work within these organizations has focused on supporting the film community and advocating for its interests.
The 42nd edition of the Alexandria International Film Festival for Mediterranean Countries will seize place from September 26 to 30, with opening and closing ceremonies held at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The competition bearing Dr. Gabara’s name will be a central feature of the festival.
Dr. Gabara has supervised numerous doctoral and master’s theses at Egyptian and Arab academic institutions, and her contributions have been instrumental in shaping the landscape of cinematic education in the region.
