Special Prize < The Japan Foundation President’s Prize >

Kids on the Silk Road – Girl against Gravity - is part of a beautifully-crafted documentary series that follows children from five countries as they navigate their lives through their challenges, struggles and triumphs. In this episode we are introduced to young Erdenchimeg, an 11-year old Mongolian girl who, as a means to get herself and her family out of poverty, has her eyes set on becoming a famous contortionist. As she desperately wants to be part of the prestigious performance at Parliament Square; we see her diligently attend her classes and how she struggles to master the One-hand Handstand. This documentary gives a good understanding and appreciation of the many and oftentimes harsh realities of what young people have to face in this world. As the jury, we fell in love with Erdenchimeg’s focused but unassuming demeanour, her sense of discipline, determination and vision.