Chief Judge of the 2024 This Season –The International Multicultural Film Festival (IMFF) has once again demonstrated its commitment to showcasing the best of multicultural cinema with its 2024 selection of films.

Announce the appointment of Mr. Tibor Meszaros as the Chief of the Jury Panel for our 2024.

Tibor Meszaros is a well-respected advocate for community television and has dedicated his career to promoting multicultural, diverse, and inclusive media. With over twenty years of experience in community television, Tibor has produced hundreds of broadcast television programs that have garnered numerous awards at both the Western Australian and national levels. His commitment to elevating underrepresented voices in media aligns perfectly with the ethos of the IMFF.

The West TV General Manager

Tibor’s journey began at West Television (WTV), where he served as General Manager. WTV has long been recognized as a vital training ground for aspiring producers, directors, journalists, and presenters. It provides an alternative viewing platform to major networks, showcasing locally produced content and highlighting local personalities. Tibor’s leadership at WTV has played a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of media professionals, ensuring that the voices of diverse communities are heard and valued. Under Tibor’s guidance, WTV has not only focused on entertainment but also emphasized the importance of community engagement through media. By prioritizing local stories and talents, WTV has become a beacon for aspiring filmmakers and media creators, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed in a competitive industry.

Bridging Gaps and Continuity of Minority Media

Despite the challenges faced by grassroots TV programming in Australia, Tibor has remained steadfast in his mission to support and promote multicultural media. The odds are often heavily stacked against community television and its passionate volunteers. However, initiatives like the Muslim Film Festival and the International Multicultural Film Festival serve as vital platforms that continue to uphold the values of diversity and inclusion in the Perth media landscape.

These festivals represent more than just a series of screenings; they are vital components of a larger movement aimed at building a rich, local media ecosystem. By showcasing multicultural films, these festivals offer filmmakers from various backgrounds the opportunity to share their stories, foster dialogue, and connect with audiences in meaningful ways. Tibor’s involvement with these initiatives underscores his commitment to empowering minority voices and bridging cultural gaps through film.

Our Senior Citizen

In recognition of his significant contributions to the community, Tibor was honored as Senior Citizen of the Year in 2020 in Western Australia. This accolade was awarded to him for his tireless efforts to ensure that Perth residents had access to local free-to-air television that included community news, current affairs, and arts content. His leadership and dedication have transformed the media landscape in Perth, providing invaluable resources for local storytellers. As General Manager of West TV since 2008, Tibor has trained and mentored hundreds of young journalists and media professionals, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in various local media outlets. Many of these individuals have gone on to work with well-known organizations such as Seven West, Community News Group, Noongar Radio, Channels Nine, Ten, and ABC. Tibor’s mentorship has been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous young talents in the industry, creating a lasting impact on the local media scene.

Academia and Minority Media Expertise

Tibor’s commitment to his advocacy work is further demonstrated by his academic achievements. In 2023, he completed a Master of Media by Research at Murdoch University. His thesis focused on defending the community television (CTV) sector in Australia, providing essential research and evidence to support his claims for the rights of community television. His work underscores the necessity of keeping broadcasting local and free-to-air while continuing to train new local talents for the media industry. Tibor’s academic background complements his practical experience in the field, enabling him to advocate effectively for the rights of community television. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, he is uniquely positioned to influence the future of multicultural media in Australia.

Multicultural Film Festival’s New Ride

Tibor is thrilled to be involved in the International Multicultural Film Festival and believes it is a rich source of new talent and innovative screening concepts. Much like community television, this festival emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, providing a platform for independent producers to showcase their unique programs and media skills. The IMFF empowers diverse communities and special interest groups to express themselves on an equal footing, creating a vibrant tapestry of stories that reflect the richness of human experience.

“It has been a privilege to participate in the 2024 festival alongside the judges, evaluating 30 submissions for the Muslim Film Festival and 60 for the International Multicultural Film Festival across four categories. We eagerly anticipate sharing the lineup with local film enthusiasts in Perth this October and November,” said Tibor. His enthusiasm reflects his dedication to promoting international movies that inspire, entertain, and educate audiences about the multifaceted nature of our world.

Films Have No Race or Religion!

The International Multicultural Film Festival (IMFF) was launched in late 2020, with its inaugural season taking place in September and October 2021. This festival has embarked on a significant journey to elevate multicultural films in Australia, showcasing a wide array of international movies that celebrate diversity and foster understanding among different cultures.

IMFF transcends race and religion; it embraces a broad spectrum of people and communities characterized by their diverse races, religions, skin colors, political beliefs, traditions, and cultures. The festival aims to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes by providing a platform for filmmakers to share their unique stories.

The primary criteria for film submissions at the IMFF are designed to reflect these values: