Belmaya is not alone
We were delighted to co-host an online screening of Sue Carpenter’s new film ‘I am Belmaya’ on the 29th of August. This is a compelling and moving portrayal of a life that reflects many of the social and gender-related issues faced by the women of Samunnat Nepal. Lots of Samunnat supporters watched this movie from Australia, the US, Canada, the UK, the Czech Republic and elsewhere. There was a strong representation from the polymer community – even joining the Zoom Q&A from the US in the early hours of the morning. Everyone who watched the movie felt the power of its story.
The Q&A featured - from top left - Sue, Wendy, Belmaya and Kopila
Several of the women at Samunnat Nepal also watched the movie and had a great discussion about it afterwards. Kopila has put some of their comments together…
The ladies felt the similarities of pain and violence in their own lives. The discrimination between boys and girls are the same in their families. Special values and priorities are given to sons. Girls are meant to get married, have babies and depend on their husband. One adult girl had run away from her house due to similar broken home issues as Belmaya. She cried and wished that she had had the chance to be safe in an organisation before getting married – and this might have prevented her being raped again and again.
Anu talked about the importance of not just doing one thing but looking at the whole situation facing each girl – and helping them understand that marriage is not the solution. She reminded us that our designed beads have to be very perfect and each and every step must be followed for perfection. To be competitive in Nepal there are still many challenges. It is a challenge to compete on your own, it is fortunate if you are given great help. What will happen?
Babita was inspired by the message of girls’ education. Ambika said that her situation is different now – no more violence and she knows how to raise her voice for her rights. Sharmila thinks that family and society have a narrow impression of women – so we have to prove that we can do it.
The happy ending in the movie was Belmaya’s determination. Belmaya showed great determination and courage to overcome her pain. She deserves congratulations for her bravery and for educating other girls. She can be a role model for women.
Kopila and Belmaya were excited to meet at our Zoom Q&A. They hope to continue their discussions and look at possible collaboration in the future. Everyday heroes.