The Southern Arizona Film Society (SoAZFilm) is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing creativity, cultural identity, and career opportunities through film in Southern Arizona and the borderlands. We believe that storytelling through film has the power to transform lives, strengthen communities, and spark social change, but only when every voice is heard.

Each donation helps us keep our doors open and our programs at no costs to artists to create an accessible and inclusive film culture that benefits our filmmakers, our industry, and our community.

How You Will Benefit

Tax-Deductible Support

As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your contributions are tax-deductible.

Tangible and Lasting Impact

Your support funds real programs: livestreaming access for rural creatives, mentor stipends, student travel, guest speakers, and recorded educational archives. We'll show you exactly how your support helps the community thrive.

Our Programs

The Nogales International Film Festival (NOGAIFF)

Held each spring, NOGAIFF is a celebration of binational storytelling that brings together filmmakers, actors, and audiences from across the globe. Our signature Film on the Fence event, screened simultaneously on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border, has drawn national attention and embodies our mission of connection through cinema. Panels, premieres, and industry networking make this a must-attend cultural event in Southern Arizona.

Mentorship Master Class Program

With free and accessible training for over 30 underrepresented filmmakers each year, this program provides expert-led workshops in grant writing, budgeting, script breakdowns, AI in film, and more. These master classes are not only about building skill—they're about creating a home for filmmakers who haven’t traditionally had access.

Student Filmmaker Academia

This program offers hands-on film production and vocational training to high school students in Southern Arizona and the borderlands. Students gain real-world experience while working on projects for their first commercial client. It’s about inspiring the next generation of storytellers and giving them the tools to succeed.

Film Positives

Our Film Positives are a socially driven series of short films and microdocumentaries focused on inclusion, sustainability, and cultural representation. Emerging filmmakers are mentored from concept to completion, producing powerful narratives that reflect the communities they come from and the values we all share.

Help Keep Our Programs at no Cost to Filmmakers