Established in 1997 by the Sephardic Educational Center (SEC), the festival’s diverse array of films promote a deeper understanding of Sephardic Judaism’s rich heritage. The festival’s Cinema Sepharad Award recognizes leading celebrities and artists for their unique achievements in the entertainment industry, while the Maimonides Leadership Award and Sephardic Legacy Award honor outstanding leaders and philanthropists for their contributions to society.

The Film Festival proceeds support the Sephardic Educational Center (SEC) which is dedicated to strengthening Jewish identity for youth and young adults, and to building a new generation of spiritual and community leaders.

From our historic campus in the Old City of Jerusalem to our various diaspora branches, the SEC’s philosophy of Classic Sephardic Judaism offers Jews an opportunity to connect with their roots in a warm, friendly and positive environment. At the SEC, tradition meets modernity, and the timeless values of intellect, unity, compassion and tolerance blend to create a meaningful connection to Judaism, Israel and the Jewish people.