We are proud to welcome Anders Garde Kongshaug to the jury for the 2026 US International Awards. With more than three decades of experience in film, television, and cultural communication, Anders has produced thousands of video news releases broadcast by global media outlets such as CNN, BBC, MTV, Reuters, and Euronews.
As the most awarded Danish director in tourism film within the CIFFT circuit, his work has played a key role in transforming Copenhagen into a leading international travel destination. From founding Kongshaug Productions in 1987 to shaping large-scale cultural initiatives like the Copenhagen Light Festival, Anders continues to redefine how cities communicate their identity through storytelling.
In this interview, he shares insights into his work in international media, cultural storytelling, and the production of large-scale visual projects, reflecting on key projects, creative risks, and what makes strong corporate storytelling stand out.
We are thrilled to have you on the jury for the 2026 US International Awards. Please tell us more about your work background and your everyday work life. Could you also tell us what you enjoy the most in your job?
Developing ideas, finding strong angles in stories, and bringing concepts to life successfully.
What projects have you done so far? Are there projects that stand out for you personally and what was the most challenging project you worked on so far?
I have built up Copenhagen’s brand in the international media and am now working on the winter season, developing the Copenhagen Light Festival, which is now among the largest in Europe - the only one in the world featuring large-scale light artworks in snow and cold February weather. It works.
It has been the most challenging project to start, as I moved to the other side of the table, handling all PR. That has been demanding, but is now very rewarding.
What are you currently working on? And what else is planned for the upcoming time?
Currently, I am producing video news releases about light festivals in Europe - as part of a European Commission program, Creative Europe, called Imagine Peace.
These news videos have been broadcast on CNN, Euronews, and many known stations in the US, South America, Asia, and China.
I am now planning to work on other cultural and pictorial stories for cities, which, in my productions, are reaching international news platforms.
What’s a creative risk you took recently? How did it turn out?
To bring people and experiences into the news in a new way—and actually succeed with it. All my news productions have been broadcast since 2008 - so I feel confident doing this.
What does an award represent to you?
Recognition and trust from clients.
It is also rewarding to see clients succeed and feel confident in choosing you as their director and producer.
In your opinion, what makes a “good” corporate video? Alas, what are you looking for in a winning entry?
Bringing emotion into the story and keeping the audience engaged is the most difficult —and that is what makes a strong “good” corporate film.
Are there any tips for potential entrants? Production-wise and presentation-wise?
Personal and unique productions are always the strongest. Great footage, combined with personal storytelling and distinctive phrasing, can elevate a film into something that feels true—both within and in the world it presents.
