‘Courage is often hidden in simple acts’: Standing ovation for student’s film

The life of an international student is often fraught with challenges left unseen by outside eyes, but a heartfelt student film showcases the importance of how art can be used to break down stereotypes and shine a light on quiet realities.  

Charles Darwin University (CDU) creative arts student Tisha Bansal directed a short film titled New Beginnings during her recent Screen Media class, and took the opportunity to reflect on her journey from India to Australia.

“Through my film, I wanted to portray that even though life changes around us, our values, memories and the love we carry from home stay the same,” Tisha said.

“It represents every international student who has dreamed bigger than their fears, someone with good intentions, a kind heart, and the hope to make their family proud.

“My goal was to show how courage is often hidden in simple acts: waking up each day, trying again, and learning to smile through challenges.”

The short film was screened at the University’s Diwali festivities, where it received a standing ovation.

CDU Lecturers in Digital Media Storytelling Abby Dunn and Will Tinapple played a key role in bringing Tisha’s story to the screen.

Ms Dunn said her role as an educator was to guide and support budding filmmakers in acquiring the tools and confidence to bring their art to life.

“My role was to help her refine her creative voice and encourage her to draw from personal experience to create something authentic and powerful,” she said.  

“Our short filmmaking course is a fantastic program to be part of as it allows us to work closely with each student from developing an idea through to the final edit.”