Sima Urale

Acclaimed as one of New Zealand's most prominent directors, Sima Urale was born in 1967 in Samoa, before migrating to her adoptive home. Active in the film industry since the mid-1990s, Urale is best known for her works in the drama genre, including her well-received films "O Tamaiti" and "Apron Strings," the former of which won the Best Short Film at the Venice Film Festival. Urale's directorial style often encompasses themes of cultural identity and family, a reflection of her own Polynesian heritage.

As a storyteller, Sima Urale beautifully captures the human spirit and its resilience, painting a vivid picture of the lands and culture she so lovingly hails from.