We’re excited to announce the dates for the 12th edition of the Curaçao International Film Festival: April 14–19, 2026. With an extra festival day, the launch of the Watapana Award to spotlight Caribbean filmmaking talent, and a special spotlight on local volunteer organizations, CIFF 2026 promises to continue and increase its connection to the island.

As part of this expanded program, we’ll be producing five short documentaries that capture the spirit and impact of volunteer-driven initiatives on Curaçao. 

One of those films will focus on the world of cultural volunteerism — and for this, we’re asking YOU to help us choose.

As part of CIFF 2026, the Volunteer Spotlight Project will highlight the invaluable role of volunteers on Curaçao through a series of five short documentaries. Each film will feature a different volunteer organization, representing the categories of Care, Education, Nature & Environment, Sports, and Culture. In collaboration with Curaçao Cares, CIFF is currently selecting organizations for the first four categories. For the fifth — Culture — we’re turning to our audience to help us identify a group that deserves to be featured.

These stories will be brought to life by local filmmakers and shared with the public during the festival, offering a powerful platform for recognition, inspiration, and community pride.

Cultural volunteerism involves individuals contributing their time and effort to activities that promote, preserve or celebrate cultural heritage, arts, or traditions, often within a community or across cultures. This can include volunteering at museums, cultural centers, festivals, or participating in initiatives that support artistic expression or cultural exchange.

At CIFF, we believe culture and film go hand in hand. Film is one of the most powerful ways to tell cultural stories, to pass on heritage, and to inspire a new generation. That’s why we want to shine a light on the people who make that possible — not just on screen, but in real life.

We’re looking for cultural volunteer organizations that make impact; often modest in scale, but rich in heart. Whether they preserve music, support youth through the arts, or bring communities together through cultural events.

To be eligible, the organization should:
–  Been active for at least 3–5 years.
–  Be relatively small or lesser-known.
–  Be volunteer-driven.
–  Be open to be filmed for the documentary for CIFF 2026.
–  Be open to participate in Q&A’s & introductions during the fest.

Does a group come to mind? 

We’d love to hear their story. The selected organization will receive more than just recognition — they’ll have their story captured and shared with the world. It’s a unique opportunity to inspire others, gain visibility, and celebrate the power of volunteering through film.

They’ll receive:

• A professionally produced 5-minute documentary

• A premiere during CIFF 2026 and special school screenings

• Public recognition and opportunities for fundraising

• Two invitations to the official CIFF opening night

• A powerful platform to share their impact with a broad audience