Women Without Borders spotlights bold female filmmakers and female-led stories about women who are not afraid to cross physical and mental borders.

Founded by actor, filmmaker and curator Blanka Douglas, Women Without Borders is more than a festival - it’s a platform, a movement, and a celebration of the strength, diversity, and raw honesty of women’s voices in cinema.

At its heart, WWB is about tearing down barriers, both physical and mental, that women continue to face globally. Whether it’s a heartwarming love story, a tale of resistance, or an intimate portrait of personal struggle, this is your space to be seen and heard.

“We don’t just aim to transcend borders, we aim to smash through them.” – Blanka Douglas

What sets WWB apart is the fierce clarity of its mission: to curate stories that challenge, uplift, and provoke. Films selected for the festival are chosen not only for their artistry but for the power of their message, the courage of their storytellers, and the authenticity of their vision.

Live Q&A Sessions with bold filmmakers
Masterclasses led by industry trailblazers
Panel Talks that dive deep into craft, identity, and representation

Best Short Film
Best Feature Film
Best Cinematography
Best Performance
Emerging Filmmaker
Jury Special Mention

Women Without Borders Film Festival is dedicated to spotlighting stories told through the female gaze, showcasing bold, diverse, and empowering narratives from around the world. Please review the submission guidelines carefully before submitting your work.

ELIGIBILITY
We welcome submissions of both feature films and short films from all genres, including narrative, documentary, animation, and experimental.

Submissions must meet the following criteria:

The film must have a strong female narrative or central female character(s).

Films must be directed by a woman OR

If directed by a man or non-binary person, the creative team (at least 60%) must consist of women, and the film must explore a female-centered story.

We aim to support and elevate women filmmakers, while remaining inclusive of allies who are committed to amplifying women’s voices through their work.

FILM CATEGORIES
1. Feature Films

Runtime: Over 40 minutes

Must be completed after January 1, 2023

English subtitles required for all non-English dialogue

2. Short Films

Runtime: Under 40 minutes

Must be completed after January 1, 2023

English subtitles are required for all non-English dialogue.

PROMOTION MATERIALS USAGE
By filling the submission form, the applicant authorises WWB Film Festival to use and publish press packages, posters, other specified materials and information in the WWB Film Festival catalogue, programs, flyers, promotional materials and in press for promotional purposes.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Alexandra Wain

    One of the warmest festivals I have attended. It was so great to have our short, In the Clouds, included. The festival organised a lot of events including an intimate dinner with other directors and DOPs. I networked with some of the top people in the industry. Our film went on to win Best Score and I couldn't be prouder of our composer Tara Creme. 100% apply to this festival!

    June 2026
  • Jasmine De Silva

    Amazing festival celebrating such an incredible range of talented filmmaker voices. Can't wait for the next one

    June 2026