Cheering on our clients at the Smiley Charity Film Awards

Powerful storytelling

January always kicks off with a flurry of sector activity – new campaigns, new fundraising pushes and, increasingly, new cause-based films. So we were delighted to see five of our clients shortlisted in this year’s Smiley Charity Film Awards, the world’s largest platform celebrating powerful storytelling from charities and non-profits.

Voting is now open

Now in its eighth year, the awards recognise films that move people to think, feel and act – from short, deeply personal pieces to ambitious international campaigns. Alongside judging panels, the public plays a major role: supporters can watch and vote for their favourite films, helping to spotlight important causes and the organisations behind them.

 

Five of our clients are in the running

Born Free with Wildlife Heroes: a compelling international conservation film series that shines a light on the individuals protecting threatened species around the world.

Changing Faces with Letter to My Younger Self: a moving portrayal of self-acceptance and visibility for people living with a visible difference.

Dravet Syndrome UK with What Is Love When Living with Dravet Syndrome?: a powerful reflection on family life with a rare and complex epilepsy, told with honesty and care.

International Animal Rescue with JoJo’s Legacy and Batutegi: Seeds of Hope: two films illustrating how wildlife protection and community resilience go hand in hand.

ShelterBox with The Power of Shelter: a global look at how emergency relief transforms the lives of people displaced by disaster.

What makes the Smiley Awards distinctive is not just the films themselves, but the sheer breadth of organisations taking part – from small volunteer-led charities to major international NGOs. The result is a snapshot of the sector’s creativity and its ability to tell human stories that deepen understanding, attract new supporters and build lasting empathy. In a landscape where attention is scarce, film continues to be one of the most effective ways to bring complex issues to life.

Public voting is open until January 30, and it only takes a few minutes to take part. You can watch all of this year’s entries and vote directly through the Smiley Awards platform. The shortlist of finalists will be announced on February 11.

We’re proud to work with organisations like Born Free, Changing Faces, Dravet Syndrome UK, International Animal Rescue and ShelterBox – and we’ll be cheering them on as the results unfold.

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