Filmmakers Share Migrant Stories

Their backgrounds are diverse but they share a common thread: a journey across the world to a new life in Australia.

Six amateur filmmakers will share their migrant stories at a red carpet screening at the Mercury Cinema this month as part of ACH Group’s Good Lives on Film #3 project.

An award-winning initiative of member network The Exchange, the project saw filmmakers aged 50+ spend 13 weeks together to produce two films.

They spent six weeks at Adelaide’s Media Resource Centre, developing concepts and learning the basics of filming, before heading out on location to film, then returning to the editing suite to guide the final production. Along the way, they learnt to produce, direct, edit and use camera, lighting and sound equipment.

Four other migrants joined in to share their stories during a filming day as part of South Australia’s History Festival.

Filmmaker Sahar Amini left Iran 27 years ago with her husband and three children, seeking safety and a better life in Australia under the protection of the UN. Sahar, who works at the Onkaparinga Community Centre, is thrilled to be part of the Good Lives on Film project.

“I’ve really enjoyed it,” she says. “I’ve made a lot of new friends. Our work may not be perfect, but it’s made us feel that as migrants we have value, that we are counted, and that is really important to us.”

Project manager Fiona Telford-Sharp is delighted with the result.

“The filmmakers captured a rich tapestry of stories from a range of countries, including Italy, Germany, Bosnia, Iran and Hong Kong,” she says. “With so many shared experiences the group quickly formed strong friendships. They have all challenged themselves to learn new skills, and showed great courage in sharing their personal stories with the wider community.”

The premiere of the films A Taste of Harmony and Life’s Box of Treasures will feature a guest appearance by WOMADelaide performer and Adelaide singer Akhter Jahan, singing music from Bangladesh and North India.

The free event is a celebration of all cultures and attendees are encouraged to wear their cultural dress.

WHAT: Good Lives on Film #3 Premiere

WHEN: Wednesday 28 June, 6pm

WHERE: Mercury Cinema, 13 Morphett St, Adelaide

Find out more about ACH Group.