ConnectHER 13th Annual International Film Festival Announces 2026 Program at Stateside at The Paramount

Two nights of powerful storytelling and exceptional cinema, culminating in an inspiring awards celebration that opens with a live musical performance by singer/songwriter Victory Boyd on Saturday, May 2.

(Austin, Texas) — ConnectHER Film Festival, presented by ConnectHER and Eloise DeJoria, returns Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Stateside at The Paramount in downtown Austin.

Now in its 13th year, the festival celebrates the power of young filmmakers ages 14–25 who are courageously telling stories that center women and girls from their own communities. This year’s program features bold documentaries, intimate narratives, and imaginative animation from emerging filmmakers across the globe.

Friday evening will feature a vibrant showcase of short films—stories that move, surprise, and stay with you long after the credits roll. Filmmakers will be in attendance for a live post-screening Q&A, offering a rare opportunity to hear directly from the next generation of global storytellers.

“At ConnectHER, we believe storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for change,” said Lila Igram, Founder of ConnectHER. “These young filmmakers are not waiting for permission to lead conversations about the issues shaping their lives. They are stepping forward with courage, creativity, and conviction—and we are honored to amplify their voices.”

Saturday night transforms Stateside into a red-carpet celebration of creativity and impact. Guests are invited to arrive early for the VIP red carpet before the high-energy Awards Ceremony honoring this year’s standout films and filmmakers.

A highlight of Saturday evening will be a live performance by acclaimed singer/songwriter Victory Boyd, our special musical guest at this year’s ConnectHER Film Festival Awards Ceremony on May 2. Her soulful voice and grounded presence will set a powerful tone for an evening dedicated to honoring young filmmakers who are courageously sharing stories that matter.

The evening will also include appearances from distinguished industry leaders including Austin-based producer Elizabeth Avellán and philanthropist Eloise DeJoria, alongside additional special guests.

More than $32,500 in awards will be presented, including Judges’ Choice, Best Documentary, Best Narrative, Best Animation, and additional category honors recognizing storytelling that drives meaningful global conversations.

I often say I wish ConnectHER Film Festival had existed when I was younger. I love that it’s dedicated to helping young filmmakers have their voices heard. It’s more than a festival, it’s a platform that connects emerging leaders across the world. There’s something incredibly powerful about supporting one another through storytelling.—Eloise DeJoria

ConnectHER Film Festival offers an inspiring cultural experience in the heart of downtown Austin. Join us for two memorable evenings featuring exceptional international short films, entertainment, and authentic storytelling.

TWO-DAY FILM FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

Friday, May 1, 2026
6:00 PM – Doors Open
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Opening Night Showcase & Filmmaker Q&A

Saturday, May 2, 2026
6:00 PM – Doors Open & VIP Red Carpet
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Awards Ceremony featuring a live performance by Victory Boyd
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Private VIP Reception

Suggested age for viewing: 13+

Ticket Information

• $35 General Admission (each night sold separately)
  • $155 VIP Ticket (Saturday only)

Venue: Stateside at The Paramount
719 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701

For tickets and more details, visit the Paramount.

About ConnectHER Film Festival

Launched in 2013, ConnectHER Film Festival invites filmmakers ages 13–25 of all genders to submit original short films addressing global women’s issues. To date, ConnectHER has received more than 2,000 submissions from 94 countries. More than $30,000 in prizes is awarded annually by a distinguished panel of judges, with more than $300,000 distributed to young filmmakers to date.

Presenting Sponsor: Eloise DeJoria
Learn more at https://connectherfilmfest.org.

About ConnectHER

ConnectHER advances authentic representation for women and girls by amplifying their voices through film, storytelling, and direct investment in women-led, community-driven initiatives. To date, we have invested more than $1.5 million in women-led projects worldwide. By supporting young filmmakers—and partnering with local leaders, ConnectHER ensures their perspectives, leadership, and solutions are centered, sustained, and shared globally.

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