UNICEF Child Rights Special Award presented to Bahraini director Enas Al-Yacoub at Jordan Children and Youth Film Festival

AMMAN, Jordan – 23 August 2026 – UNICEF presented Bahraini director Enas Al-Yacoub with the UNICEF Child Rights Special Award for her short film The Gift at the closing ceremony of the fifth edition of the Jordan Children and Youth Film Festival, held at the Royal Film Commission under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Jalila bint Ali.

The Gift tells the story of 10-year-old Hala, who experiences bullying after developing vitiligo and finds confidence, friendship and a sense of belonging through table tennis.

The UNICEF Child Rights Special Award recognizes a film that places children’s experiences and rights at the heart of its story. The Gift was recognized for its portrayal of bullying and its impact on children, while highlighting how sport can help children build confidence, connection and belonging.

Presenting the award, UNICEF Representative to Jordan Marc Rubin highlighted the important role of storytelling and media in shaping how children understand themselves, others and the world around them, and the shared responsibility to create a safe and empowering media environment for children.

Children also played an active role in the festival through its children’s jury, where they watch, discuss and assess films and help recognize the stories that speak to them. UNICEF nominates a child to participate in the jury each year.

Al-Yacoub’s film also received the Festival’s Best Short Film Award, selected by the children and young people’s jury.