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Celebrating Abilities: The Focus on Ability Short Film Festival

In 2009, Martin Wren, the CEO of NOVA Employment, envisioned a platform that would challenge stereotypes and showcase the true abilities of individuals with disabilities.

His unwavering belief in their capabilities led to the inception of the Focus on Ability festival, where filmmakers from around the world tell powerful stories through the medium of film.

Martin’s vision was to use film as a tool to dismantle stereotypes and highlight the diverse talents of individuals with disabilities on a global scale.

With your support, the Focus on Ability (FOA) festival aims to catalyse change.  While our ambition may seem lofty, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of the Focus on Ability Short Film Festival firsthand.

It serves as a potent catalyst for reshaping perceptions and fostering inclusivity. The festival encourages filmmakers to shift their lens toward “Ability” and create compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Filmmakers create short (5-minute) films that highlight the achievements and abilities of people with disabilities.  These films stand as a powerful testament to resilience, creativity, and the indomitable human spirit.

The Focus on Ability™ Short Film Festival has a global audience, providing exceptional exposure for emerging filmmakers. It serves as a platform for individuals with disabilities to amplify their voices. Films undergo rigorous evaluation by esteemed judges and participate in an online voting process, with prizes awarded across various categories.

Let’s celebrate the boundless potential and remarkable talents of individuals with disabilities through the art of filmmaking!

Presenters

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Martin Wren

NOVA Employment

Martin Wren, CEO of NOVA Employment is a visionary leader who has made significant contributions to promoting inclusivity and challenging stereotypes.

Martin is committed to helping people with disabilities find and maintain meaningful employment. Under his leadership, NOVA Employment has emerged as a strong advocate for the rights and opportunities of individuals with disabilities in the competitive job market.

Martin was Inducted into the DEA Hall of Fame in 2022 in recognition of excellence and long term commitment to the evolution of disability employment in Australia.  Martin has committed a significant portion of his working life towards the realisation of improved quality outcomes for people with disability in open employment.

In 2009, he founded the Focus on Ability Film Festival, an annual event that celebrates the talents of people with disabilities through short films. His belief in the capabilities of individuals with disabilities led him to use film as a powerful tool for global impact. The festival has grown over the years, attracting filmmakers from around the world and reshaping perceptions.

Anne Goyer

Anne Goyer

General Manager, NOVA Employment

Anne Goyer is a dedicated and influential advocate for people with disabilities, currently serving as the General Manager of NOVA Employment. Her compassionate leadership and innovative strategies have significantly advanced NOVA’s mission.

Joining NOVA Employment, Anne quickly became a pivotal figure within the organisation. Her exceptional ability to understand and address the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities has been instrumental in shaping NOVA Employment’s success.

Anne’s commitment extends beyond her role at NOVA Employment; she actively contributes to the “Focus on Ability” short film festival.

Through her role within the Festival, she has not only changed individual lives but has also championed the broader cause of inclusion and equality in the workforce.

Her work underscores that employment is about more than just economic participation—it’s about dignity, respect, and a sense of belonging.