Stathis Avramidis makes his acceptance speech upon receiving
the Special Health Film Award at the IFRCHF 2024.  

Avramidis’ “Baywatch” related film
honored at International Festival

 

Varna, Bulgaria 20.06.2025. At the 60^th celebration of the International Festival and Red Cross Films (IFRCHF), Dr Stathis Avramidis received the “Special Health Film Award” for “Charlie the savior”, that was inspired by the life of the legendary creator of the famous TV series Baywatch, Greg Bonann, to prevent childhood drowning.

 

This IFRCHF that is recognized by the International Red Cross and the World Health Organization, celebrated its 60^th year. This year’s competition program included a record-breaking 226 films from 63 countries, selected from over 2.800 submitted productions (more).

Stathis Avramidis with the IFRCHF Director Ilko Raev and Jury President
Denis Bojic before the red carpet walk at the entry of the Festial Centre.

The award ceremony was made at the overcrowded Europe Hall of the National Palace of Culture – Congress Centre Varna, by the IFRCHF Jury Member, Kamen Balkanski.

Red carpet entry. It is not a moment of pride but a walk of responsibility.

The IFRCHF Director, Ilko Raev, welcomes Dr Stathis Avramidis.

 

Upon the reception of the award, Dr Stathis Avramidis said: “​In all festivals, the red carpet walk defines pride. In this festival, it defines responsibility. Why? Because it symbolizes the walk of Henry Dunant at the street of Solferino that was also red from the blood of the soldiers. We, the filmmakers, don’t make this walk to feed our ego. We make art to move the human race forward. Away of the blood. Closer to the light! My film was inspired from Baywatch. I thank my good colleagues Nikos Kouremenos, John Salogiannis, Betty Harlafti and Andy Pappas; the Selection, Organizing and Jury Committees. Svetla, Ilko, Bilyana and Denis. I dedicate this award to my 2 protagonists. To Charlie Hayes, whose death prevents the drowning of thousands of children through education. To the creator of Baywatch, Greg Bonann, whose life inspired and benefited billions of people and whose kindness and generosity helped me become a better person. I didn’t expect this award, because I am an amateur filmmaker. Charlie Chaplin said, that more than cleverness we need kindness and gentleness. I hope my film is one such example that will take us, especially children, closer to the Light. Thank you!”

 

Final awards night before the announcement.

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Parents and children expressed interest for "Charlie the savior".

“Charlie the savior” was well accepted by the jury and the audience. The award-winning filmmaker and IFRCHF Jury President, Denis Bojic, said: “We thought that Stathis’ aim to save lives through education in such elegant way, was essential to merit our recognition.” The IFRCHF Art Director, Prof. Bozhidar Manov PhD, added: “This film is about an important program that I will surely use it to educate me 2 grandchildren.” 

 

The main entry of the Festival centre attracted mass participation. 

Enthusiastic viewers at the Festival centre.

The film talks about the International Water Safety Program that is approved by the International Life Saving Federation, the International Swimming Hall of Fame, the World Open Water Association, A Chance For Children Foundation, the Royal Life Saving Society Commonwealth, and produced by the Greek Lifesaving Sport Association. Supported by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, the program benefits thousands of children through the project “Safe Greece”.

Stathis Avramidis talks about the film to Bulgarian Red Cross volunteers.

In a world that uses paper straws to save the planet from climate change whereas thousands of bombs are flying on the sky to destroy it, screening a film about drowning prevention at this festival was a humble act of humanity. 

Commemorative photo with festival winners, Natalia Lobko and Mustafa O Al Bakri.

Special Health Film Award 2025: Charlie the Savior.

The award ceremony was followed by a party for all the filmmakers and distinguished guests with dancing and food. Photos: Mira Maxima, Bulgarian Red Cross.

Party for the filmmakers at the final night.
Stathis danced tango with the Event's Organizer, Bilyana Raeva.

Stathis taught swimming and spoke about "Charlie the savior" to young Lara Georgieva. When they met the same night, she gave him a big hug, indication that she enjoyed
the lesson. Thanks to Charlie, children like Lara learn water safety and swimming. 

Watch here the trailer of the International Water Safety Program "Charlie the savior".