Through film, guided discussion, and shared experience, WJFF connects local students with meaningful Holocaust education
Since 2017, the Wilmington Jewish Film Festival has proudly expanded its mission beyond evening screenings to bring meaningful, age-appropriate Holocaust education directly to local students including UNCW undergraduates. Through our Educational Outreach Program, we partner with area schools and colleges to provide impactful film screenings and guided discussions that help students connect history with the present day.
Through the years, more than 2,000 public high school & UNCW students from New Hanover and Pender counties have experienced films such as Fanny's Journey, the true story of Holocaust survivor Fanny Ben-Ami, who at only twelve years old led a group of children to safety. These screenings are not just about history; they are about empathy, resilience, and understanding in today's world.
Every screening is a complete educational experience — from historical context to open dialogue
Students receive background information that frames the film within World War II and Holocaust history, setting the stage for deeper understanding.
Discussions highlight the dangers of antisemitism and the importance of standing against hate in all its forms.
After each screening, students ask questions, share reactions, and reflect with their teachers in guided post-film conversations.
The Festival covers all costs: theater rental, transportation, security, and even substitute teachers if needed — completely free for schools.
Click the email address above to email us about the Educational Outreach Program.
Elie Wiesel: Soul On Fire – This compelling new documentary offered our attendees a rare, intimate portrait of one of the most influential voices to emerge from the Holocaust. Told largely through Wiesel’s own words and voice, the film explores his journey as a survivor, writer, teacher, and Nobel laureate. A virtual Q&A with the film producer, Oren Rudavsky, followed the screening of the film.
WECT News featured the Wilmington Jewish Film Festival in a segment on our educational outreach program about the Holocaust for local high school students. This program included the screening of the film Fanny’s Journey and a discussion afterwards. The news segment also contained an Interview with Festival President Debbie Smith at the Wilson Center Event.