Saving Tuvalu

In August 2024, we (co-directors Kate and Amelia) were successful in receiving development funds from Shark Island and Screen NSW towards a 10-day research trip to Tuvalu. We travelled to Tuvalu in September to strengthen our connections on the island and research the progress of the digital nation. During our visit, we met with Minister Simon Kofe, who explained that the project is still in its early conceptual stages. He shared that they are assembling a local team to lead the digitisation efforts over the next three years. Among the team members is Venu, a key protagonist in our story.

We also connected with Frank Pichel from PLACE, a US-based organisation collaborating with the Tuvaluan government to create high-definition scans of the island as part of the digital nation. Both Kofe and Pichel expressed interest in working with us to document the evolution of the project.

Additionally, we interviewed community members who spoke about the profound ways climate change is impacting their lives. Many young people, like meteorologist Simoea, voiced fears about the future and were preparing to leave the island. In contrast, older individuals, such as Reverend Malisi, expressed a deep commitment to staying, rooted in their faith that God would protect them. From the moment we arrived, it was clear what is at risk if the island disappears—their vibrant culture, resilient community, and much more.

After returning, we updated our pitch materials, which our producers will present at major industry events, including Content London, the World Congress of Science and Factual Producers in Marrakesh, and AIDC in Melbourne next year. We are now actively seeking funding to return to Tuvalu, where we aim to deepen our collaboration with Tuvaluan participants and further develop our model of partnership with the community. We will be applying for Screen Australia development funding in January 2025 and will also be seeking international development funds. We hope to begin production on the film in late 2025.