SIMA Changemaker Award
Recognizing leadership shaped through storytelling and action
Congratulations to the 2025 SIMA Changemaker Award recipients:
EDUCATORS: Adelyn Chin (SMK Takis Papar, Malaysia); Syeda Munazza Bukhari (Dream2Rise Initiative, Pakistan).
STUDENTS: Gaurjan Sharma (India) and Akhil Konduri (Kuwait)
NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Winners announced every December.
Submit by November 30 to be considered .
ABOUT THE SIMA CHANGEMAKER AWARD
The SIMA Changemaker Award honors students, educators, and community leaders who translate insight into action, using documentary storytelling as a catalyst for meaningful engagement.
Each year, SIMA honors individuals who move beyond analysis to implementation: designing projects, leading initiatives, and contributing to more informed, connected, and responsive communities.
WHO WE HONOR
- Students and community leaders who have developed impact projects inspired by SIMA films—through Film Clubs, group initiatives, lessons, or SDG Challenges
- Educators who integrate SIMA Academy into their work to foster critical inquiry, global awareness, and leadership
ELIGIBILITY
Applicants must have used a SIMA Academy film as the foundation for designing and implementing an impact project within a school, organization, or community.
One application per year.
Project Categories
Applicants may submit projects in one or more of the following categories:
- Community & Outreach — initiatives that foster dialogue, collaboration, or local engagement
- Local & Global Campaigns — advocacy or awareness efforts addressing social, cultural, or environmental issues
- Media & Mixed Media — creative work using storytelling to engage audiences and inspire participation
HOW TO APPLY
GLOBAL OPEN CALL
Submit your project through the year-round open cal.
SIMA Partner SDG Challenge
The SIMA SDG Challenge is an academic initiative designed to support educators and students in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through film-based inquiry and applied projects.
For partner-specific submissions, refer to the entry form provided by your institution or program administrator.
Current initiatives include: MIS Solutionary Summit, SIMA India SDG Challenge, Lynn University Challenge.
AWARDS AND JURY PRIZES
Recipients Receive:
- Year-round access to SIMA Academy
- Global recognition through editorial and social features
- Official SIMA Changemaker Leadership Certificate
Partner Awards may include:
- Sponsored prizes and custom recognition
- Mentorship, funding, or program opportunities
- Visibility within partner networks
CONTACT US
To inquire about partnership and sponsorship opportunities, please contact us here.
