Mohamed from Scum Studios (right). — © RR
The documentary ‘Pushing Boundaries’ recently premiered in the Arenberg. The Borgerhout non-profit organization Scum Studios and the reception initiative Taalfabet outline the moving story of unaccompanied minor newcomers who are trying to find their way in Belgium.
The horrific journey to Europe, life in a reception center and the challenges young people face as they find their way in Belgian society. These are just a few of the topics that Scum Studios and Taalfabet address in their documentary ‘Pushing boundaries’.
“Two years ago I got the idea to make a film about vulnerable young people,” says Lenn Leysen of the Taalfabet shelter initiative. “I started looking for an organization with expertise and quickly came across Scum Studios.”
“When Lenn explained his plans, we were immediately involved in the story,” adds Mohamed El Kasmi. “A few months earlier we made some short films at Scum Studios about young newcomers. This time we wanted to share the story of the underage unaccompanied newcomers who are currently staying in the local reception initiative (LOI) Taalfabet in Wommelgem at all costs.”
These four young people who stay at LOI Taalfabet in Wommelgem, among others, tell their story in the documentary. — © RR
And both Scum Studios and Taalfabet had a good reason for this. “We want to make the voices of these young people heard so that society gets a more realistic picture of the newcomers we should welcome as a host country,” Lenn explains. “Through the documentary we hope to achieve a more humane view of these young people. After all, there are more similarities than differences between them and us.”
“The vulnerability of this group further emphasizes the need for support and opportunities for their talent development,” Mohamed continues. “We not only want to share their stories, but also recognize and encourage their potential.”
‘Pushing Boundaries’ was already greeted with wide eyes in the Arenberg. Spurred by that success and the great demand for a new screening, Scum Studios and Taalfabet are organizing a second séance in Cinema De Studio.
The second screening of Groundbreaking will take place on April 27 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available via the De Studio website.
Tags: Scum Studios Taalfabet moving documentary Pushing boundaries Offering viewers perspective newcomers Antwerp
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