An era is ending. After nearly 15 years, as of December 1, 2025, Ola Staszel is bidding farewell as one of the main festival directors at the Neisse Film Festival. Ola has influenced the NFF for over a decade with her open heart, her clear vision and contagious love for cinema. Together we have overcome barriers -- geographical as well as interpersonal, we have spent nights around a campfire, had intensive conversations with filmmakers from around the world and experienced many unforgettable festival moments. Ola has, together with us -- and with many partners and friends -- created a festival that is as unique, so welcoming and vibrant as our region. A place where people come together, where they laugh, converse and discover the art of film anew. A place which gives the three-country-corner international appeal.

Dear Ola, without you the Neisse Film Festival would not be what it is today. Thank you for your energy, your clarity, your optimistic confidence, your humour and your warmth. Thank you for everything that you have built up, initiated, and carried. With all our hearts we wish you only the best on your continued path. You will always have a piece of home here.