The Literary Brilliance of Micro-Short Dramas: A Global Celebration of Creativity
— The Inaugural CWAA Cup Global Micro-Short Drama Screenplay Awards Successfully Concludes
The Literary Brilliance of Micro-Short Dramas: A Global Celebration of Creativity
— The Inaugural CWAA Cup Global Micro-Short Drama Screenplay Awards Successfully Concludes
On January 18, 2025, the grand award ceremony of the CWAA Cup – First Global Micro-Short Drama Literary Screenplay Awards was held online. The event brought together distinguished figures from the worlds of literature, film, and culture around the globe, illuminating the starry sky of time with the power of words and opening a new chapter in the development of micro-short drama literature.
Hosted by the Chinese Writers Association of America (CWAA), and co-organized by Dreamood Pictures (USA) and the World Micro-Short Drama Research Association, with support from the World Chinese Microfiction Research Association, the competition received backing from 30 Chinese literary organizations worldwide. It was also sponsored by Dreamood Pictures, East West Bank (USA), and Sunshine International Investment Inc. Since its launch in May 2024, the competition has attracted talented literary creators from across the globe, becoming a remarkable international event that bridges literature and film.
Distinguished Guests Gather for a Grand Celebration
The award ceremony was graced by an impressive lineup of guests, including members of the organizing committee, advisors, award recipients, and members of the Chinese Writers Association of America (CWAA). Joining them were presidents of literary organizations and executives, producers, and directors from film companies around the world.
Among the participating supporting organizations and representatives were:
• Huang Zongzhi, Honorary President, Los Angeles Chinese Writers Association (USA)
• Liu Fei, President, Northwest Chinese Writers Association (USA)
• Chen Ruilin, President, European and American Film and Television Association
• Qi Hongxiang, President, Hongxiang Film Production Company
• Feng Yu, President, and Han Changfu, Vice President, Canada Dahua Writers Association
• Sun Bo, President, Chinese Writers Association of Canada
• Zheng Nanchuan, Founding President, and Dong Yan, Current President, Quebec Chinese Writers Association (Canada)
• Meng Na, President, European Chinese New Immigrant Writers Association
• Hua Chun, Founding President, Japanese Chinese Women Writers Association
• Liu Ruijin, President, Singapore Writers Association
• Wen Xiaoyun, Secretary-General, Thai Chinese Writers Association
• Xian Jinyan, Chairwoman, New Zealand Chinese Federation of Literature and Art
• Helen Hu, Australian Chinese Writers Association
• Lin Meijun, President, South American Chinese Writers Association
• Coconut, President, Philippine Chinese Writers Association
In addition, several distinguished guests added brilliance to the celebration, including:
• Ms. Zhang Haoyin, Chairwoman of the Longteng Cultural Development Foundation and Chief Curator of the International Chinese Original IP Film Festival
• Ms. Cao Xiaodong, internationally renowned film producer, Chairwoman of Huohong Pictures, and Jury Chair of the 2nd International Chinese Original IP Film Festival
• Mr. Qi Binying, President of Megalight Pictures (USA)
• Ms. Zhang Feng, President, Overseas Chinese Women Writers Association
• Mr. Zhang Hui, President, World Chinese Weekly Publishing Group
• Mr. Lei Junyi, President, Chinese Writers Association of Washington (USA)
• Mr. Cai Zhong, Vice President, Ho Chi Minh City Chinese Literary Association (Vietnam)
• Professor Wang Zuyou, Taizhou University (China)
• Mr. Jia Mingwen, Editor-in-Chief, Literature Connects China (Washington, USA)
• Ms. Ji Min, President, Vinery International Media Co. Limited
• Mr. Bao Bao, Director, CPAN Film Company
• Mr. He Conghuan, Producer, Daying Youxiang Pictures (Chengdu, China)
Special Messages Draw Global Attention
Headquartered in the picturesque coastal city of San Diego, California, the Chinese Writers Association of America (CWAA) received worldwide recognition during the CWAA Cup Global Micro-Short Drama Screenplay Awards Ceremony.
The Mayor of San Diego, Todd Gloria, sent a congratulatory letter to the event, stating:
“Dear guests of the CWAA Micro-Short Drama Awards Ceremony: Congratulations to the organizers and participants for creating such an outstanding international event celebrating artistic creativity and innovation. The micro-short drama format fully demonstrates the power of concise storytelling and its ability to connect diverse voices and audiences around the world.
As Mayor of San Diego, I am proud to recognize the Chinese Writers Association of America — a national nonprofit organization headquartered in our city. CWAA is dedicated to advancing literary and cultural excellence across the nation. Seventy of its members’ works have been collected by the UCLA Library, enhancing San Diego’s artistic reputation and making a lasting impact both domestically and internationally. Thank you for providing a space where creativity and talent can flourish. I wish this ceremony great success and inspiration.”
U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu also extended her congratulations through a video message:
“I want to thank the Chinese Writers Association of America (CWAA) and its President, Dr. Gee-Schweiger, for organizing this wonderful event that brings together storytellers to celebrate the power of words and creativity. I would also like to thank Chief Advisor Lisa Yang for her invitation and her contributions to our community.
Since its founding in 2015, CWAA has built a thriving platform for writers, fostering cultural exchange and community connection through storytelling. Today’s competition showcases CWAA’s leadership in promoting the innovative micro-short drama format — a concise and powerful way to inspire creativity, highlight diverse themes, and advance global inclusiveness in culture. I congratulate the entire CWAA team for successfully hosting such a meaningful event. Your efforts have enriched our communities and paved the way for more connected stories and creative endeavors in the future. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement!”
Lisa Yang, member of the International Executive Committee of the Hollywood Women’s Film Association, screenwriter, and Chief Producer of The Oscar Team, also sent her best wishes in a congratulatory message:
“Although I could not attend the ceremony due to work commitments, I would like to express my feelings in ten words: ‘With a worldly attitude and a transcendent spirit, do things well.’ As Chief Advisor of this year’s competition, I am deeply gratified to see President Gee-Schweiger and all team members complete such a challenging task with selfless dedication — demonstrating professionalism, perseverance, and precision.”
In a video message, Ling Dingnian, President of the World Chinese Microfiction Research Association, expressed his admiration and congratulations:
“My respect and best wishes to the organizers, participants, sponsors, supporters, and winners of this event! Your efforts, creativity, and hard work have been recognized and rewarded. In the rapidly rising field of micro-short dramas, you are at the forefront — playing a leading role that will leave a remarkable mark in both literary and cinematic history.”
Authoritative Judging and Award Announcement
At the award ceremony, Dr. Gee-Schweiger, President of the Chinese Writers Association of America (CWAA) and Chair of the Organizing Committee, delivered a comprehensive report summarizing the competition. She stated:
“Throughout the judging process, we strictly followed a three-stage evaluation system — preliminary, secondary, and final reviews — conducted by the panel of judges. In early October, four preliminary judges began assessing submissions using both a scoring system and overall commentary to shortlist entries. In early November, another four judges carried out the secondary review based on the first-round feedback, evaluating each work with fairness and objectivity by considering the author’s background, synopsis, and screenplay, and then recommending the award rankings. In December, two judges who served on both the secondary and final review panels consolidated the results to determine the final list of winners.
It was gratifying to see that the judges’ feedback was remarkably consistent, allowing the selection to conclude smoothly. The entries this year included screenplays written in Chinese, English, and bilingual formats. Notably, many participants and winners are experienced creators, including professional screenwriters and directors. However, we also observed that while some well-known writers submitted outstanding stories, their works were not fully suited for the micro-short drama format and had to be regrettably set aside. At the same time, several emerging writers stood out with original ideas and scripts that perfectly fit this form, truly embodying the mission of the competition — to provide a platform for creators at all levels to showcase their talent.”
Cui Ping, Executive Director of the Judging Committee and Secretary-General of CWAA, served as the ceremony host. She invited Attorney Wang Zhiming, the association’s legal advisor, to read the notarization statement, affirming that the entire judging and award process was conducted with fairness, transparency, and integrity, and that all results were valid and authentic.
The First Prize was presented by Dr. Gee-Schweiger, Chief Judge and Chair of the Organizing Committee, along with Mr. Tan Ruiqin, CWAA Treasurer, who awarded the winner Ms. Zhang Ci a certificate of honor and a cash prize of USD 1,000. A member of the Chinese Writers Association since 1983 and now based in Hollywood, Ms. Zhang won for her 60-episode micro-short drama series Bank, which impressed judges with its unique theme and concise storytelling. The project has strong potential for production.
The Second Prize was awarded by Eno Q, President of Dreamood Pictures, to Wang Fei for Setting the Trap and Zhong Mei for My American Rebirth, each receiving USD 500. Wang Fei’s work was praised for its fresh market-oriented theme, while Zhong Mei’s screenplay stood out for its creative use of time travel, skillfully blending ancient and modern cultural elements. Both projects are under consideration for production.
The Third Prize was presented by Dr. Shi Deliang, CWAA Deputy Secretary-General, Executive Group Leader of the Organizing Committee, and Preliminary Judge of the competition, together with Ms. Liu Fei, CWAA Board Member and Head of the Organizing Committee’s External Relations Group. Each winner received a USD 300 prize.
The Excellence Awards were presented by Wen Hao, Vice President of CWAA and Vice Chair of the Organizing Committee, to ten recipients.
Ms. Zhang Haoyin, Chairwoman and CEO of the Longteng Cultural Development Foundation and Chief Curator of the International Chinese Original IP Film Festival, presented the Creativity Awards to six recipients.
Ms. Zeng Xiaowen, CWAA Advisor and former President of the Chinese Pen Society of Canada, presented the Finalist Certificates to four honorees.
Honoring Dedication and Unity
To express gratitude to the special supporters of the competition, the Organizing Committee established three honorary distinctions — the Cultural Ambassador Award, the Literary Angel Award, and the Outstanding Contribution Award.
The Cultural Ambassador Award was presented to:
• Lisa Yang — Member of the International Executive Committee of the Hollywood Women’s Film Association, screenwriter, producer,
and Chief Producer of Hollywood’s Oscar-winning The Oscar Team. She served as Chief Advisor of this year’s competition.
• Ye Xin — Renowned Chinese novelist, former Vice Chairman of the 9th National Committee of the Chinese Writers Association,
and screenwriter of the acclaimed TV dramas Debt of Life and Wasted Years. He served as Chief Advisor of the competition.
• Ling Dingnian — President of the World Chinese Microfiction Research Association, advisor to the Organizing Committee,
and representative of the event’s co-organizing institution.
The Literary Angel Award was presented to six distinguished advisors:
• Professor Cao Wenxuan, doctoral supervisor at Peking University, film screenwriter, and winner of the Hans Christian Andersen Award.
• Chen Ruilin, overseas Chinese literary critic and President of the European and American Film and Television Association.
• Zheng Nanchuan, President of the Canadian Society for World Sinology, scholar, and writer in Chinese literary criticism.
• Zheng Zi, Executive Vice President of the Asian Microfilm Academy and Executive Director of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles Film and Television Center.
• Wei Haijun, Founding Partner of Daguan Capital.
• Li Shanglong, bestselling author and science communicator with over one billion online views for his AI-themed educational content.
Two additional recipients of the Literary Angel Award were Yibo Kou, Head of the Art Department of the Organizing Committee, and Esther Zhang, Head of Operations.
The Outstanding Contribution Award was presented to Eno Q, President of Dreamood Pictures, screenwriter, producer, and Vice Chair of the Organizing Committee.
In a heartwarming moment, U.S. Congresswoman Dr. Judy Chu presented the Outstanding Contribution Award to Dr. Maria Lixian Gee-Schweiger, President of the Chinese Writers Association of America and Chair of the Organizing Committee, in recognition of her remarkable literary achievements.
In her commendation, Dr. Chu wrote:
“Dr. Maria Lixian Gee-Schweiger, President of the Chinese Writers Association of America (CWAA), is hereby recognized for her outstanding efforts and accomplishments in supporting media arts and celebrating Chinese American cultural heritage. Your leadership and dedication are deeply appreciated and highly commendable. Congratulations on all your achievements, and may your future endeavors continue to shine brightly.”
Celebrating Literature, Envisioning the Future
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Dr. Maria Lixian Gee-Schweiger, Chair of the Organizing Committee, expressed her heartfelt sentiments:
“Although this year’s competition is coming to a close, its historical mission will continue. We plan to publish the synopses of the winning works on the CWAA website and on the World Micro-Short Drama Research Association’s platform, in the hope of drawing attention from film and television companies interested in producing micro-short drama series. We look forward to seeing more of these award-winning works brought to life on screen.”
The ceremony lasted one hour and forty-five minutes, exceeding its scheduled time, yet the enthusiasm of nearly one hundred participants — including guests, judges, committee members, advisors, award recipients, and CWAA members — never waned. The event concluded amid warm congratulations and heartfelt wishes.
Although the awards were presented virtually via Zoom, without red carpets or flashing cameras, the ceremony integrated pre-recorded on-site footage, creating a unique blend of online and offline experiences that offered a refreshing sense of connection and celebration.。
Winners’ Remarks and Messages of Congratulations
First Prize – Zhang Ci:
“I am deeply honored to receive the First Prize at the inaugural CWAA Cup. This award establishes my position in the micro-short drama scene. With recognition comes responsibility, and I hope my future works will bring more creativity and innovation to this field. This is the best New Year gift of 2025. I greatly admire the judges’ and organizers’ meticulous efforts. Congratulations to the other winners, and I wish the competition continued success. Happy New Year to everyone!”
Second Prize – Zhong Mei:
“I am very grateful to the judges and the Organizing Committee for awarding me this honor. This recognition belongs not only to me but also to the Chinese Writers Association of America. Congratulations to all other winners, and I hope everyone continues to achieve greater success in the micro-short drama field. I wish the CWAA Cup continues to thrive!”
Third Prize – Guo Xiaojuan:
“I am honored to receive the Third Prize at the inaugural global CWAA Cup. As a first-time writer of suspense micro-short dramas, winning this award was a wonderful surprise — the best New Year gift of 2025. I am deeply moved by the judges’ and organizers’ professionalism and dedication. Congratulations to all other winners, and may the competition flourish. Happy New Year!”
Third Prize – Weng Yishui:
“Grateful for everything! Congratulations on a successful event! Wishing everyone happiness, peace, joy, and good health!”
Third Prize – Chen Xin:
“I was pleasantly surprised and deeply honored to receive this award. I realize that compared to more experienced and accomplished winners, I still have much to learn. I am grateful for the opportunity provided by the competition and hope the CWAA Cup continues to grow, enabling everyone to achieve even greater accomplishments.”
Excellence Award – Ge Hangsong:
“I am honored to receive this award. Thanks to the judges, CWAA, and Dreamood Pictures for organizing this competition. This recognition encourages me to continue creating English-language screenplays. I hope that all winning works will soon be produced and reach audiences.”
Excellence Award – Shen Yimeng:
“I am grateful for this honor. It not only validates my creative work but also encourages the integration of film and micro-short dramas. As a film creator, I believe every new form contains unique narrative power. While micro-short dramas have become a cultural trend in the U.S., they are still emerging in Europe. I look forward to exploring the possibilities and depth of this form, sharing it with a broader audience. Thank you for your support and trust.”
Excellence Award – Sun Bo:
“In recent years, micro-short dramas have become extremely popular. Initially, as a traditional screenwriter, I hadn’t watched one and even looked down on the format. However, on June 8 last year, I attended a CWAA-hosted film forum as a representative of one of the supporting organizations. Ms. Eno’s two-hour presentation completely changed my perception — I realized the format is fast-paced, full of twists, and highly engaging. Inspired, I created my first micro-short drama, Mom, I’m Home, and I am deeply grateful to the judges for awarding me the Excellence Prize. Without this competition, I would not have ventured into micro-short dramas. Many thanks to Dr. Gee-Schweiger and the Organizing Committee for their hard work!”
Excellence Award – Xin Man:
“The award touches the heart and inspires the spirit. I am grateful to CWAA for walking this journey with dreams, bringing creativity to distant horizons.”
Creativity Award – Jia Wenting:
“I sincerely thank CWAA for this opportunity. Through professional skills, literary expression, and storytelling, creativity brings color and together we create a fresh audiovisual experience, crafting a beautiful canvas for micro-short dramas.”
Finalist – Shen Linzhao:
“Though early in my career, this recognition is inspiring. Thank you to the judges and Organizing Committee.”
Finalist – Wang Ye’an:
“Even as a finalist, this encouragement is invaluable for my first attempt at writing a screenplay. Congratulations to all winners!”
Advisors’ Remarks:
Chen Ruilin:
“Congratulations to all winners of the inaugural CWAA Cup! Thanks to CWAA for organizing this literary and film event, bringing together writers from around the world to promote the integration of Chinese literature and film. Excellent literary works combined with film generate tremendous impact. We encourage writers worldwide to provide outstanding works for Chinese film and fulfill their literary mission.”
Zheng Nanchuan:
“I am deeply moved witnessing this global event. Organizing such a large-scale competition for a non-profit is extremely challenging. Without Dr. Gee-Schweiger’s strong literary background, passion, social commitment, and the trust and unity of the organizers, this event would not have been possible. This competition sets a new standard for overseas Chinese literary initiatives and micro-literature competitions. Truly commendable.”
Li Shanglong:
“Although now working in AI, my identity as a writer remains central. Writing allows me to find calm and transcend time and space. Thanks to CWAA for empowering more writers through this platform.”
Meng Na, President of the European Chinese New Immigrant Writers Association:
“Under Dr. Gee-Schweiger’s leadership and the joint efforts of literary organizations worldwide, this award ceremony was a resounding success. It inspires writers and screenwriters globally to contribute to micro-short drama literature, serving as a beacon guiding creators and filmmakers.”
Hua Chun, Founding President of the Japanese Chinese Women Writers Association:
“Congratulations on the successful completion of the inaugural global micro-short drama screenplay awards! Following this first edition, many more will participate. Congratulations to all winners, including Zhang Ci, who has honed her skills in film and is truly deserving.”
Huang Zongzhi, Honorary President, Los Angeles Chinese Writers Association:
“Warm congratulations to all winners of the inaugural CWAA global micro-short drama screenplay awards, and especially to Zhang Ci for winning First Prize! Thanks to CWAA for organizing today’s literary and film celebration.”
Dong Yan, President, Quebec Chinese Writers Association:
“Congratulations to Dr. Gee-Schweiger and the team for the successful conclusion of the CWAA Cup Global Micro-Short Drama Screenplay Awards!”
Zhang Haoyin, Chairwoman & CEO, Longteng Cultural Development Foundation:
“It was a pleasure to attend the awards ceremony. I am delighted to see so many excellent original works presented at the CWAA Cup, reflecting the spirit of IP originality. I look forward to seeing the winners create more outstanding works, and hope to see them at the 3rd International Chinese Original IP Film Festival in New York.”
Qi Hongxiang, President, Hongxiang Film Production Company:
“Congratulations to all winners, and thanks to CWAA for the invitation. Thanks to the authors for their dedication and to the judges for their fair evaluation. I believe the micro-short drama platform will continue to grow and thrive.”
Lin Meijun, President, South American Chinese Writers Association:
“Congratulations on the successful completion of the global micro-short drama awards and CWAA annual meeting!”
Yuan Ruizhen, Special Guest and Permanent CWAA Member:
“The ceremony was elegant and grand, perfectly showcasing the competition. It aligns with contemporary trends and aesthetics, attracting writers worldwide and producing outstanding works that enrich people’s cultural lives. Under Dr. Gee-Schweiger’s leadership, CWAA will continue to foster East-West cultural integration, promote Chinese language and literature, and expand opportunities for members globally.”
To: Dr. Maria Lixian Gee-Schweiger, Chair, Chinese Writers Association of America (CWAA)
From: Ms. Cao Xiaodong, Internationally Acclaimed Film Producer, Chairwoman of Firehawk Pictures, and Chair of the Jury for the 2nd International Chinese Original IP Film Festival
Dear Chair Dr. Gee-Schweiger,
I am truly honored to have been invited by you to participate in the awards ceremony of the inaugural Global Micro-Short Drama Screenplay Competition. It was undoubtedly a groundbreaking and inspiring industry event, showcasing remarkable charm and significance from start to finish.
From the very beginning of the preparation, I could clearly see the dedication and tireless efforts of you and your team. Under your outstanding leadership, the competition attracted enthusiastic participation from creators around the world. A diverse range of high-quality scripts, featuring various genres and styles, poured in, vividly demonstrating the vitality and immense potential of this emerging art form — the micro-short drama.
The awards ceremony itself was meticulously designed, presenting an engaging and multifaceted program. The in-depth exploration of the winning works and their creators allowed us to fully appreciate the unique charm of these outstanding scripts, while also providing a clear vision of the broad prospects for the micro-short drama industry. These impressive achievements would not have been possible without your foresight and relentless dedication.
As a film producer, I am particularly excited. The carefully selected winning scripts are truly gems — not only rich in literary quality but also cleverly structured, offering tremendous potential for adaptation into visual media. I eagerly look forward to discovering opportunities to bring these stories to the screen. I am confident that, with these exceptional scripts and professional audiovisual production, audiences will experience an entirely new cinematic and viewing pleasure, injecting fresh vitality into the industry.
The resounding success of this ceremony is a brilliant testament to the hard work and vision of you and your team. It has created a top-tier platform for global exchange and showcasing within the micro-short drama community, inspiring more creators to contribute and pushing the industry toward new heights.
I look forward to continuing to witness more achievements under your leadership and to collaborating in advancing the global micro-short drama industry.
Once again, please accept my most sincere and enthusiastic congratulations!
Sincerely,
Cao Xiaodong
(Submitted on behalf of the Chinese Writers Association of America)
颁奖典礼实况录像，欢迎收看：
https://youtu.be/Fh3xXwWUoT0 （美国）
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