The 7th annual International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) celebrates excellence in film and video production – and its powerful role in destination mark
One of the world’s most remote inhabited islands has triumphed on the global stage as St Helena Tourism’s breathtaking film Come and Find Me won the Gold Award in the Tourism Destination (International) category at the prestigious International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) in Sandton on 6 June.
This achievement follows the film’s earlier success in Japan, where it received a Director’s Choice special award at the Japan World’s Tourism Film Festival (JWTFF).
Jonathan Passaportis, Head of Tourism for St Helena, said: “Winning gold at ITFFA was a special moment for everyone involved in the production – and well-deserved recognition for the director Darren Peens, who attended the ceremony with actress Katie-Raye Williams. We’re thrilled!”
For Passaportis, Come and Find Me showcases what makes St Helena Island so special, including its unique natural heritage, adventurous activities, and bucket-list appeal.
“The film represents a bold departure from traditional tourism marketing, using narrative-driven storytelling to captivate audiences and celebrate the wonders of St Helena, for example, the rugged coastline, stunning landscapes, marine life – including the island’s famous whale sharks, known locally as “bone sharks” – history, and cultural appeal,” says Passaportis. “We hope this award will introduce St Helena Island to new audiences, eco-conscious travellers, and those looking for an adventure unlike any other.”
ITFFA, now in its 7th year, has established itself as the premier tourism film festival in Africa, receiving over 4,000 film entries from 94 countries since its inception. The festival celebrates how film tourism drives economic growth and destination appeal, with a focus on how high-profile productions contribute to job creation and increased tourism arrivals.
For St Helena, an island of just 47 square miles in the South Atlantic with a population of approximately 4,000 locals, this victory over entries from much larger (and more accessible) destinations reinforces its growing reputation for off-the-beaten-path journeys and remarkable natural wonders.
“This gold award shows that St Helena‘s unique character and location are exactly what makes us shine on the global stage,” added Passaportis. “We invite travellers to come and find us – and experience what St Helena Island has to offer.”
Video link Come and Find Me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATenzRrnCJc
For more information about the award or St Helena Island, or to explore interview opportunities, please contact sthelena@bigambitions.co.za.