Overview of the Screenings
On 8 December 2025, TU Dublin’s Grangegorman campus welcomed a diverse audience for two film screenings that highlighted pressing human‑rights issues. The event was organised in partnership with Phibsboro For All and the Phibsboro Film Society, reinforcing the university’s commitment to social awareness and community engagement.
Both screenings were followed by panel discussions featuring activists, filmmakers, and public officials, creating a platform for dialogue and reflection. The evening was part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender‑Based Violence, underscoring the relevance of the films to current global campaigns.
Explore our upcoming events and stay informed about future screenings that address critical social issues.
A Girl from Mogadishu – A Story of Resilience
The first film, A Girl from Mogadishu, follows the life of Irish‑Somali activist Ifrah Ahmed. The narrative traces her escape from a forced marriage in Somalia, survival of trafficking, and eventual asylum in Ireland. The film, directed by Mary McGuckian, won the Cinema for Peace Women’s Empowerment Award at the 2020 Berlin Film Festival.
During the screening, a panel chaired by writer and film critic Mutale Kampuni engaged the audience in a discussion with Dr Ifrah Ahmed herself. The conversation deepened the impact of the film, highlighting the power of individual courage in challenging harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM).
Key figures from the Irish government, including former Minister Joe Costello and former MEP Emer Costello, shared their reflections on advocacy and policy change, bridging the film’s narrative with real‑world action.
Learn more about our partnership with Phibsboro For All and how these collaborations amplify human‑rights voices.
Another Summer – Voices of Refugees
The second screening featured the documentary Another Summer, which presents the stories of Afghan and Ukrainian refugees across Europe. Created by refugees themselves, the film emerged from a project that trained first‑time filmmakers from both communities.
Filmmakers captured personal accounts of displacement, resilience, and hope across seven European cities and Turkey. The panel discussion included director Alžběta Kovandová‑Bartoníčková, Hussain Behtaash, and Yelena Cannon, offering insights into the creative process and the broader refugee experience.
Audience members left the event with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by displaced populations and the importance of community support.
Impact on the Community
Dr Brian Murphy, TU Dublin’s Government and Community Advocacy Lead, emphasized that the screenings fostered a sense of shared responsibility. “These events bring students, staff, and neighbours into the same space to engage with stories that matter deeply,” he said.
Ken McCue from Phibsboro For All highlighted the role of these screenings in sparking meaningful conversations and amplifying important voices. “From Ifrah’s courage to the creativity of the refugee filmmakers, these stories inspire empathy and understanding,” he noted.
Future Collaborations and Next Steps
Both parties are already planning additional screenings for 2026, aiming to broaden the reach of socially relevant cinema. TU Dublin looks forward to continuing its partnership with Phibsboro For All, bringing more impactful events to campus and the wider community.
Interested parties can contact us for collaboration opportunities or to learn how you can support future initiatives.
We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation about human rights and activism.
