MELBOURNE PREMIERE

Based on the winning story of a nationwide writing contest, NAWI portrays the life of a determined girl growing up in rural Kenya.

Nawi’s (Michelle Lemuya Ikeny) aspirations of attending high school are shattered when she learns that her father Eree (Ochungo Benson) plans to marry her off to a stranger, Shadrack (Ben Tekee). Despite her family’s necessity for the bride wealth, Nawi refuses to succumb to this arranged child marriage and flees for Nairobi. Pursued by her own family, she clings to her dream of a promising future supported by her only ally in this struggle; her brother and closest friend, Joel (Joel Liwan). But Nawi’s sense of responsibility tugs her back when news arrives that her newly born sister will have to take her place in the impending marriage.

Africa Film Fest Australia is co-presenting Nawi with the Kenya Community Victoria.

Some Swahili language, English subtitles.