IN DEVELOPMENT
KINDERFONDS MAMAS
“A LOVE LETTER TO SOUTH AFRICA”
THE ORGANIZATION
In South Africa, millions of children still have to survive in the harsh reality of poverty. And poverty is so much more than a lack of money. It means hunger, violence, sexual abuse, crime, AIDS, and hopelessness. But the MAMAS won't leave it at that! They stand up and take care of the most vulnerable children in their own environment.
Kinderfonds MAMAS was founded at the request of Nelson Mandela, who believed that South African children are best served in local projects with local people. That vision has left a major mark on the working methods of the organization that continues to support the MAMAS of South Africa: strong, impressive women who stand up for children in severe poverty. These women themselves organize structural daily care, protection, food, warmth and, above all, a lot of love for more than 77,000 children in 56 beautiful projects. The MAMAS structurally care for the most vulnerable children and help them from birth to their first job. In this way they give the most vulnerable children a future again.
Spread all across South Africa, Kinderfonds MAMAS supports 56 projects in which local MAMAS join forces and take action. All these projects provide concrete, daily care to children in severe poverty through education, shelter, food, clothing, safety, medical care, sports, games and, above all, lots of love and attention.
THE FILM
About Films is partnering with Kinderfonds MAMAS to create a documentary detailing the day-to-day lives of the MAMAS they support in South Africa. These MAMAS provide essential daily support, ensuring every child's fundamental needs are met – education, shelter, nourishment, safety, and healthcare. But their care goes beyond the material; it's infused with love, warmth, and unwavering attention. This film delves into the lives of these incredible women, their stories of resilience, and the transformative impact they have on the lives of the most vulnerable. Through their dedication, the MAMAS offer not just immediate relief, but also a lifeline to a future, proving that love and determination can break the cycle of poverty and offer these children a chance at a brighter tomorrow.
To bring this important film to fruition, we’ve engaged South African director and filmmaker Xoliswa Sithole – two time BAFTA and Peabody winner. Raised in Zimbabwe, she is the first South African to be awarded a British Academy Television Award. She is now a member of BAFTA , a founding member of Filmmakers Against Racism, and sits on the Manyika Committee at Harvard. Xoliswa is the sole Director of Nayanaya Pictures – an award-winning independent film production company based in Johannesburg, South Africa that produces social justice documentary films with a particular focus on women, children, and human rights. These films have themes in tune with South Africa, Africa and Global, political, educational, and socioeconomic realm and the world at large.
With a history of making world-renowned documentaries about human rights, women, children, and social issues, Xoliswa is the perfect person to partner with in creating a feature-length documentary highlighting Kinderfonds MAMAS uniquely impactful work in South Africa.
Currently, the film is in production! The team is out in South Africa spending valuable time with the various organizations that make up the backbone of this incredible movement.
Director Xoliswa Sithole
Producer Julie Costanzo
Director of Photography Natalie Haarhoff
Executive Producers Dim Gerritse, Ynze Bijl, Christopher Hall
In Partnership With Naynaya Pictures
THE TRANSFORMATIVE EFFECTS OF EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY
An emerging body of scientific evidence indicates that interacting with horses improves health and well-being and can help people with numerous physical and mental health conditions, from children living with motor disabilities to adults grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The documentary film explores the fascinating and complex relationship between humans and horses in the context of equine-assisted therapy. It provides an insightful look into how horses can help people overcome a range of emotional and psychological challenges, from anxiety and depression to trauma and addiction.
Through powerful interviews with equine therapy practitioners and their clients, the film highlights the transformative impact that working with horses can have on people's lives. It delves into the unique qualities of horses that make them such powerful therapeutic partners, including their sensitivity, intuition, and ability to mirror human emotions.
The documentary also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day operations of equine-assisted therapy programs, from horse care and training to therapy sessions and client interactions. Viewers will gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which horses are trained and utilized to facilitate healing and growth in humans.
Overall, the film paints a vivid portrait of the profound bond that can develop between humans and horses in the context of equine-assisted therapy, and underscores the importance of these programs as a tool for promoting emotional and psychological well-being. Whether you're a horse lover or simply interested in exploring the human-animal bond, this documentary is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the transformative power of equine-assisted therapy.
HORSE POWER
GUN SAFETY IN AMERICA
Tackling the sensitive and highly debated topic of gun violence in the United States, this film offers an insightful analysis of the history of gun ownership in America and its impact on gun laws. It examines the Second Amendment, its original intent, and how it has been interpreted over time. The documentary presents statistics and facts about gun violence in America, including mass shootings, homicides, and suicides, and their devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities.
The film does not shy away from the emotional and personal impact of gun violence. It features interviews with survivors of mass shootings and family members of gun violence victims who share their stories of loss and grief. Their stories are heartbreaking and make it clear that gun violence is not just a statistic but a real and ongoing tragedy that affects millions of Americans.
Also highlighting the work of gun reform advocates who are pushing for meaningful change in gun laws, it interviews experts on gun control and reform, including lawmakers, activists, and scholars, who offer their perspectives on the issue. The film examines various proposals for gun reform, such as universal background checks, assault weapons bans, and red flag laws, and how they could potentially reduce gun violence.
Overall, the film provides a balanced and thought-provoking perspective on a highly polarizing topic. It urges viewers to consider the human cost of gun violence and to work towards a safer future for all Americans.
POINT BLANK
CAN WE UNITE ON ONE THING?
The American Flag is the patriotic symbol is what should hold us together, beyond all our disagreement. In practice it amplifies American division. Democrats are afraid to fly it, Republicans feel they own it.
Exploring the potential of uniting America through a shared display of patriotism, the film focuses on the symbolic power of the American flag and its ability to transcend political differences. It showcases examples of both political parties setting aside their partisan divides and coming together to proudly fly the flag.
Through interviews with politicians, activists, and everyday citizens, "Flying United" highlights the transformative impact of this unifying gesture. It delves into the reasons behind the political divide and examines how the flag can serve as a common ground for fostering understanding and collaboration.
The documentary captures heartwarming moments where individuals from different political backgrounds find commonality in their love for the country and its ideals. It showcases instances where politicians, regardless of their party affiliations, prioritize unity and patriotism over partisan battles.
The film also explores the historical and cultural significance of the American flag, examining how it has represented unity during challenging times in the nation's history. It sheds light on how a collective display of patriotism through the flag can inspire dialogue, empathy, and cooperation.
Overall, our goal is to offer a hopeful and inspiring vision of a united America, where both political parties embrace the flag as a unifying symbol. We encourage viewers to consider the power of shared values and national pride in overcoming political divisions and working towards a stronger and more cohesive nation.
FLYING UNITED
TABOO TO TREATMENT
PSYCHEDELICS IN MODERN MEDICINE AND THERAPIES
Delving into the reintroduction of psychedelics into contemporary healthcare and therapeutic practices, this film explores the profound impact of mind-altering substances on mental health, personal growth, and well-being.
Here we offer a balanced exploration of the risks and rewards associated with using psychedelics in a clinical setting, highlighting the rigorous research and meticulous protocols that ensure safe and effective use, emphasizing the importance of professional guidance and integration practices.
The film also captures the transformative experiences of individuals who have undergone psychedelic-assisted therapies, revealing the potential for profound healing, self-discovery, and spiritual exploration.
Ultimately the film encourages viewers to reconsider societal perceptions and prejudices surrounding psychedelics by presenting a compelling case for the integration of these substances into mainstream healthcare and calling for further research, education, and responsible regulation.
By shining a light on this emerging field, we invite audiences to explore the frontiers of medicine and therapy, where psychedelics are offering new hope and transformative possibilities for mental and emotional well-being.
