The International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), the world’s premier showcase for nonfiction cinema, has appointed Isabel Arrate Fernández as its new artistic director. A veteran of the festival with deep roots in documentary filmmaking, Ms. Arrate Fernández will succeed Orwa Nyrabia, who steps down on July 1 after seven years in the role.
IDFA, held annually in mid-November, draws the global documentary industry’s leading talent and serves as a critical platform for filmmakers vying for Academy Awards. Ms. Arrate Fernández, who has served as executive director of the IDFA Bertha Fund for over two decades, brings extensive experience and a reputation for fostering diverse voices in cinema.
“With her keen eye for talent, vast international network, and deeply inclusive approach, Isabel Arrate Fernández is uniquely equipped to lead IDFA,” the festival said in a statement announcing her appointment. “Her leadership of the IDFA Bertha Fund has made it a vital platform for documentary filmmakers from Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, Eastern Europe, and Oceania, profoundly shaping the global documentary landscape.”
Marry de Gaay Fortman, chair of IDFA’s supervisory board, praised Ms. Arrate Fernández’s vision. “After an extensive search and interviews with numerous candidates, Isabel stood out,” Ms. de Gaay Fortman said. “Her ideas and artistic perspective convinced us she is the ideal leader to advance IDFA’s mission, both in the Netherlands and globally.”
Ms. Arrate Fernández, who holds a master’s degree in film studies from the University of Amsterdam, has overseen the IDFA Bertha Fund (formerly the Jan Vrijman Fund) since its inception. Under her stewardship, the fund has supported over 500 documentary projects and organizations worldwide, amplifying independent and underrepresented voices.
“I am deeply honored to take on this role,” Ms. Arrate Fernández said. “Documentary film has always moved me for its imaginative power and its capacity to inspire reflection and wonder. IDFA is a singular space where artistic freedom and social engagement converge. In a time when new perspectives are urgently needed, documentary remains a vital tool for building bridges and fostering critical thought. I look forward to collaborating with the IDFA team to continue its storied tradition and chart its future.”
Ms. Arrate Fernández becomes only the third artistic director in IDFA’s nearly 40-year history. The festival was founded in 1988 by Ally Derks, who led it until 2017, when Mr. Nyrabia took over. During his tenure, Mr. Nyrabia navigated IDFA through significant challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic and, more recently, protests over Israel’s invasion of Gaza following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.
“Orwa’s artistic vision elevated IDFA to new heights,” Ms. de Gaay Fortman said, reflecting on his departure. “While his exit is bittersweet, we support his desire to pursue new ambitions.”
The 38th edition of IDFA is scheduled for November 12 to 23, 2025, in Amsterdam.
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