Students’ Choice

My name is Hao Guo. I am originally from China. I have been living in the Netherlands for 7 years already. I am currently a law student at Leiden University. I have been always extremely interested in hearing other people’s stories. That’s why I love movies. Through movies I see how similar we are to each other as humans, sharing the same emotions, struggles and love. I also believe good movies could be hugely empowering to people. And it is the people who could bring about positive social changes. Movies that Matter is a film festival dedicated to human rights related movies. Human rights are universal, regardless of who you are and where you come from. And only if we work together, can the world become a better place. Therefore, I feel very much honoured to serve as student jury in this film festival.

Miao is a Film and Photographic Studies student at Leiden University. This is her sixth year in The Hague. As a filmmaker, and a film studies student, the film is an essential element of her life. Her first association with Movies that Matter dates to 2017, and that memorable and unique experience with films and discussions led her to pay special attention to Movies that Matter. Having worked and studied in Hong Kong, the United States and Japan, she is particularly interested in what is happening in the world and Movies that Matter allow her to see the bigger world. Movies that Matter makes her think with the courage to pursue her ideals, the conviction to aspire to freedom, and be fearless of all setbacks and hardships.

Hi! I’m Sagida, a 2nd year Leiden University College student, with a major in Governance, Economics and Development. I also happen to be the Chair of Leiden Debating union. I came from Kazakhstan a little over a year ago and since then have been living in the Hague. Last year I volunteered at Movies That Matter 2021 and watched >10 films, enjoying each one of them. So this year I am very happy to have the chance to be part of the jury!