Initially competing as one of 3500 submissions, Pa Vend, which translates to Displaced, is now amongst the final ten candidates being considered for the prestigious award with its world premiere scheduled for Friday 16th July.

Directed by Samir Karahoda, working in cooperation with award-winning producer Eroll Bilibani, the short film centres on the first table tennis club to receive international recognition following the end of the Kosovo War, “Lidhja e Prizrenit”, otherwise known as League of Prizren.

Set in the aftermath of Kosovo’s darkest days, Pa Vend provides a unique insight into the club’s remarkable origins, telling the story of how a coach and two dedicated members carried a table tennis table from venue to venue in their quest to bring the sport to the wider community.

“I feel extremely happy that we have managed to tell a unique story, a story about the love to sports and a silent fight against discrimination, and finally to be evaluated and selected by a festival like Cannes. This appreciation makes us even more confident in our work and team to whom I thank everyone for their contribution as well as the Ping Pong Club of “Prizren League” for sharing their extraordinary story.” Samir Karahoda

Pa Vend’s presence at the Cannes Film Festival is another proud moment for table tennis on the international stage, and the ITTF wishes everyone involved with the project the best of luck.