Krunal Padhiar, a documentary filmmaker and Master of Social Work student at ACAP University College, has gained international recognition for his feature-length documentary, 'VOICE'.

Created with First Nations youth group Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good (DIYDG), the film explores their advocacy work and was screened at major festivals, including the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF).

Mr Padhiar, who has spent years documenting displaced and Indigenous communities, sees a strong connection between filmmaking and social work.

"The perspective of DIYDG and their story was important in the context of The Voice referendum because it was grounded in the lived experience of a grassroots organisation working in crisis and intervention with youth," he said.

The documentary followed DIYDG's 10-day journey to the Gurindji Freedom Day Festival in Kalkaringi, commemorating Vincent Lingiari's historic civil rights strike.

DIYDG members were key collaborators in the production.

"The participants were speechless when I called to say we'd got into MIFF, and having community attend from all over Australia to support and show solidarity was the most meaningful part of the production and screenings," Mr Padhiar said.

The film won the Intrepid Audience Award and screened at the Hawaii International Film Festival, Native Spirit Film Festival, and Garifuna Indigenous Film Festival.

DIYDG co-founder and 'VOICE' co-director Semara Jose highlighted the importance of amplifying First Nations youth voices.

"'VOICE' is a testament to the reclamation of our future as First Nations young people,' Ms Jose said.

"This documentary demonstrates our unique role in ensuring our culture thrives while meeting western measures of success. Young people must have a say in the systems that affect them."

She also stressed the importance of collaboration in storytelling.

"In working with Krunal, we ensured a shared balance of power and ownership of our story," she said.

"Together we sought to bring authenticity and depth, showcasing DIYDG's impactful work and the vibrant voices of young leaders."

"Through 'VOICE', we highlight the power of collective action and storytelling in driving change."

Mr Padhiar, now in his second year at ACAP, sees his studies as strengthening his practice.

"I wanted to study social work to be more informed about engaging with vulnerable people and families and to implement protocols that strengthen my documentary work," he said.

He also reflected on how education has shaped his approach.

"Making a feature film can be a solitary experience, so ACAP's classes provided valuable reflection and discussion," he said. "Filmmaking and social work share similarities, but in documentaries, personal stories are made public."

Mr Padhiar hopes to integrate both fields.

"Through my work at ACAP, I see where I can strengthen my practice," he said. "It's been empowering. The support from lecturers, each with unique skills, has been invaluable."