Prof Dr Parin Somani’s Film on Mother Teresa Moves Audiences at Dubai’s Global Encounters Festival

The life and legacy of Mother Teresa received a powerful cinematic tribute at the Global Encounters Festival in Dubai, where global humanitarian and educationist Prof. Dr. Parin Somani premiered her short film to an international audience.

The 90-second film, screened as part of the Jubilee Arts Reel Showcase, offered a stirring reflection on compassion, sacrifice, and service to humanity—values deeply associated with Mother Teresa and echoed in Dr. Somani’s own life’s work.

“Mother Teresa’s life continues to inspire generations. I created this film to honour her values and remind the world that service is the highest form of humanity,” Dr. Somani told attendees.

A Festival of Unity and Creativity

The Global Encounters Festival, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from July 20–27, brought together more than 4,000 young artists and athletes from over 50 countries. Supported by the UAE government and inaugurated by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, the weeklong event attracted more than 25,000 visitors, uniting cultures through sports, music, art, and innovation.

Highlights included the Jubilee Games spanning 18 sports, performances by renowned artists Shreya Ghoshal and Salim–Sulaiman, art exhibitions, and sustainability initiatives such as a zero-waste policy and the Roots for Change tree-planting campaign.

This year’s festival also aligned with the UAE’s “Year of Community 2025,” reinforcing its theme of collective responsibility and youth-led change.

A Humanitarian Voice in Film

While known globally as a multi-award-winning scholar, international keynote speaker, and author of more than 23 books, Dr. Somani’s foray into cinema underscores her belief in the arts as a tool for transformation.

“Education comes in many forms. Film is a tool that transcends borders and touches hearts. This piece was created to inspire kindness, unity, and service,” she said.

Her tribute to Mother Teresa was not only a celebration of a global icon but also a reflection of Dr. Somani’s own humanitarian journey. As founder of the London Organisation of Skills Development (LOSD), she has spearheaded initiatives across continents to uplift communities through education, leadership, and empowerment.

A Living Legacy

For many in the audience, the short film served both as a remembrance and a call to action. Festivalgoers described the tribute as “moving,” “powerful,” and “a reminder of the values the world needs most today.”

By weaving storytelling with social consciousness, Dr. Somani has added a new dimension to her already extensive body of work. Whether through academic research, global advocacy, or now cinema, her message remains consistent: true impact lies in serving humanity.

With this latest creative achievement, Prof. Dr. Parin Somani further cements her place among leading voices for global compassion and unity.
To learn more about Prof. Dr. Parin Somani, visit www.parinsomani.com
Instagram: @drparinsomani