Palestine and the Role of Soft Power in Informing Public Opinion

Film Screening and Conversation with Palestinian filmmaker Ala'a Al Qaisi

This film screening event will examine the role of soft power in shaping global and local public opinion on Palestine, using cinema as a lens to explore how narratives influence perception and discourse. By presenting films that highlight Palestinian experiences, struggles, and cultural identity, the event seeks to reveal how storytelling operates as a form of cultural diplomacy—shaping empathy, awareness, and international attitudes toward the Palestinian cause.

Following the screenings, a discussion with filmmaker Ala'a Al Qaisi will unpack how film, as a medium of soft power, can challenge dominant narratives, amplify marginalized voices, and contribute to the broader conversation on justice, solidarity, and the politics of representation.

This event is timely as it comes at the height of a great circle of violence that is engulfing the middle east where the epicentre is the Gaza Strip.

The event will start by screening two of Ala'a's short films, Pink Swing and Nagham of Gaza, and then followed by a Q&A and conversation with Ala'a and the audience.

Join us on Saturday the 13th of September at 6pm at Johnson Hall, Crows Nest Community Centre.

Finger food will be provided.

The venue is very easily accessible via public transport. For more information on accessibility and parking, please check out the following link: https://www.crowsnestcentre.org.au/contact-us/transport-and-parking/

This event is hosted by Palestine Justice Movement Sydney

Proceedings from this event will help cover the venue costs and support Ala'a future films on Palestine.