About CERES
Ceres is a global platform that promotes food sustainability by driving awareness and engagement, culminating in an annual film festival.
We meticulously curate films that are catalysts for change to illustrate the causes and solutions of food-related issues around the world.
Our events feature film screenings coupled with thought-provoking panel discussions among award-winning filmmakers, chefs, and experts from the food industry and academia.
Ceres has two main objectives: first, to deepen our awareness of food as a vital and precious resource—one that we all need access to every day in the most dignified way, for ourselves, our families, and our communities. Second, to inspire action—ensuring that this awareness translates into meaningful steps to protect, share, and sustain our food systems. The films we curate have the power to do just that. By better understanding shared realities, we can take responsibility for safeguarding this essential resource—ensuring that it continues to nourish us in the right way, the right amount, and at the best quality for generations to come. We can’t be without food.
Hannah Laufer-Rottman, CERES Co-Founder
What We Offer
Our curated Substack delivers thoughtful content directly to your inbox, including:
Curated selection of year-round food + film events in NYC
Festival announcements and virtual screening opportunities
Exclusive discounts and invitations to in-person Ceres events
Behind-the-scenes glimpses into our mission, process, and events
Interviews with visionary food filmmakers and culinary storytellers
Who We Are
Ceres was founded by Maayan Laufer and Hannah Laufer-Rottman, who spent 30 years working for the the UN World Food Programme. Since its inception in 2006, Palms for Life, their family nonprofit, has raised over $40 million to aid people living in poverty.
Ceres is spearheaded by a dynamic female-led team comprised of producers of Emmy-winning culinary shows, dedicated sustainability advocates, and mothers who want to see a better future for their kids. Ceres also partners with NYU Steinhardt to engage the local student community, our future leaders in change.
Join Our Table
Whether you're a film aficionado hungry for culinary storytelling or a food lover seeking cinematic inspiration, Ceres Food Film Festival provides a space where these worlds converge. Subscribe to embark on a sensory journey through stories that nourish both mind and appetite.
Stay in touch
We'd love to hear from you at hi@ceresfilmfest.org
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