2020/2021 Winners & Shortlists

Write a short summary of what happens in the film

The film shows a story of connection & empathy between two girls - whose friendship across cultures & faiths expresses a shared humanity & a united future. It starts in the home of a Western family with the mother preparing a school lunchbox for her daughter. The film then follows the natural and habitual journey of the daughter to school and unpacks and builds the story of her friendship with her best friend, who is from the Middle Eastern region. The film shows their cheekiness, character and the depth of their relationship in a charming series of school moments. The film then ends on a surprising twist when it becomes apparent that the Western girl has secretly removed her lunch from her lunchbox (at home without her mother realizing) in solidarity, respect and connection with her best friend who is fasting during Ramadan. The film brings to life the nuances

Cultural / Context information for the jury

During the Ramadan period, the Muslim world follows 30 days of fasting from sunrise to sunset. At schools across the globe today we see integration of multiple faiths and cultures and the relationships between Muslim and non-Muslim children sharing school days, and therefore lunch time, when some are fasting and some are not. In an increasingly connected and aware society our youth are more accepting and united than ever before but it is still rare for non-Muslims to fast in solidarity to their Muslim counterparts. This film shows a surprising story of a young Westerner who wants to join her best friend in observing the fast during school days as a sign of connection and compassion towards her friend’s faith. This is deeply resonant across geographical borders worldwide.

Please tell us about the social behaviour and / or cultural insights that inspired your campaign

During the Ramadan period, the Muslim world follows 30 days of fasting from sunrise to sunset. At schools across the globe today we see integration of multiple faiths and cultures and the relationships between Muslim and non-Muslim children sharing school days, and therefore lunch time, when some are fasting and some are not. In an increasingly connected and aware society our youth are more accepting and united than ever before but it is still rare for non-Muslims to fast in solidarity to their Muslim counterparts. This film shows a surprising story of a young Westerner who wants to join her best friend in observing the fast during school days as a sign of connection and compassion towards her friend’s faith. This is deeply resonant across geographical borders worldwide.