United Nations Association Film Festival | Free UNAFF in Schools Program

The 29th United Nations Association Film Festival presents UNAFF in Schools, a free program for students and teachers on Wednesday, Oct. 21, in East Palo Alto. The program features two documentaries exploring marine conservation, environmental sustainability and community action.

The program opens with Constellations of the Sea, directed and produced by Addie Knoll. The film follows marine biologists in the Maldives as they study and track endangered whale sharks, exploring the relationship between conservation, tourism and the ocean.

The program continues with Saving Walden’s World, directed and produced by Jim Merkel, who previously lived in San Luis Obispo. The documentary follows Merkel’s decades-long journey from arms dealer to environmental advocate as he raises his son on an off-the-grid homestead and explores approaches to sustainability around the world.

**Admission is free for students and teachers.** This special UNAFF in Schools program offers an opportunity for students and teachers to see two documentaries. The 29th UNAFF runs Oct. 15-25, 2026, with the theme “Passion for Change.” The festival features films addressing human rights issues, including the environment, women’s rights, racism and peace, and engages audiences throughout the Bay Area.