Cork International Film Festival, one of Ireland’s most iconic cultural events, is celebrating its milestone 70th anniversary from Thursday 6th to Sunday 16th November, and we are looking for passionate and dedicated volunteers to help make this landmark edition unforgettable.
CIFF is renowned for its celebration of cinema, from award-winning films on the international festival circuit to hidden gems and timeless classics. This year, the Festival will be showcased in cinemas across Cork and streamed online through our Festival Digital Platform, reaching viewers nationwide.
Volunteering at CIFF isn’t just about lending a hand – it’s a unique chance to become part of a dynamic community, contribute to the arts in Cork, and gain invaluable experience in a world-class festival setting. Whether you’re interested in the behind-the-scenes action, engaging with the public, or supporting sustainability efforts, there’s a role for you.
Why Volunteer?
🎬 Be Part of the Cinematic Magic
As a CIFF volunteer, you’ll be directly involved in delivering an exceptional festival experience. You’ll help bring the latest and greatest films from Ireland and around the world to audiences in Cork, with the added bonus of having the chance to watch some of these films yourself!
🤝 Meet Inspiring People
This is a unique opportunity to connect with filmmakers, industry professionals, festival organisers, and fellow film lovers. The atmosphere at CIFF is lively, creative, and full of opportunities to build relationships and expand your network.
🎟 Gain Behind-the-Scenes Experience
Volunteering gives you an inside look into the operations of a world-class arts festival. You’ll gain hands-on experience in event logistics, audience engagement, and festival operations. Whether you’re looking to pursue a career in the arts or simply want to learn how festivals come together, CIFF offers an invaluable learning experience.
New Roles for CIFF 2025: Sustainability and Accessibility Volunteers
We’re excited to introduce two new and specialised volunteer roles for our 70th edition, reflecting our ongoing commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and environmental responsibility.
🌱 Sustainability Volunteers
Sustainability is a key focus of our operations. As a Sustainability Volunteer, you will support our green initiatives, assisting with venue sustainability audits and helping us document and improve our environmental impact. This is a unique opportunity for anyone passionate about the environment and eager to contribute to reducing the festival’s carbon footprint.
♿ Accessibility Volunteers
Our Accessibility Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring that all attendees, regardless of their needs, have a seamless festival experience. You will provide on-the-ground support, responding to accessibility-related queries, and ensuring our venues are welcoming and accessible for everyone. If you have an interest in making arts and culture more inclusive, this role is for you.
Core Volunteer Duties
As a CIFF volunteer, you’ll have the chance to work in various capacities, depending on your interests and skills. Some of the core duties include:
- Stewarding Events: Guiding attendees, ensuring safety, and helping the flow of events.
- Ticket Scanning: Managing entry points and validating digital or physical tickets.
- Accessibility Assistance: Offering support to attendees with access needs.
- Sustainability Audit Support: Assisting with environmental data collection and reporting.
- Phone Support / Information Provision: Answering festival-related queries and providing essential information.
- Front-of-House Customer Support: Greeting guests and offering on-site assistance.
Desired Skills and Attributes
While CIFF values volunteers with a variety of skills, what we are especially looking for in individuals are:
- Personable and Friendly Attitude: Enjoy working with the public and in a team environment.
- Computer Skills: Helpful but not mandatory.
- Intermediate English Proficiency: To ensure clear and effective communication.
How to Get Involved
Ready to be a part of the 70th anniversary celebration of the Cork International Film Festival? Volunteering at CIFF is an opportunity to make lasting memories, build connections, and support the arts in a meaningful way. Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, accessibility, or simply love cinema, there’s a role for you.
Email us at volunteer@corkfilmfest.org or come meet us in person at the Cork Volunteer Expo on Wednesday, 28th May in the Millennium Hall between 12:30 and 4p.m.
