THE FIRST MAN — GRIQUA. UK PREMIERE & TALK

19th Native Spirit Festial & Indigenous Studies Discussion Group (ISDG) present THE FIRST MAN Premiere at TRINITY HALL LECTURE THEATRE, TRINITY LANE, CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY CB2 1TJ followed by discussion with Director IAN JONKERS (tbc).

THE FIRST MAN 2025 | 1h 13min
Synopsis: The First Man follows Paramount Chief Joseph Kreeling, a descendant of Adam Kok, leader of the Griqua people, on a transformative journey across South Africa to continue the ancient Khoi San languages and cultural heritage. Unearthing forgotten, undocumented histories, he fights for his dignity and justice against a dismissive government, inspiring a nation to protect the Khoi San legacy.

Director Biography: Ian Jonkers is a self-taught filmmaker from South Africa, known for his acclaimed televised short films ISAMBULO and SWELA. His latest work highlights the heritage of Griqua, Khoi and San people. Driven by a passion for honoring ancestral legacies, Ian continues to inspire through his impactful storytelling and technical expertise.

Director Statement: The First Man is an evocative documentary that delves into the rich Griqua culture and history of the Khoi San people through the journey of Paramount Chief Joseph Kreeling. This film is a passionate effort to preserve Khoi San heritage, as their ancient languages and cultural practices face imminent extinction. Our goal is to create a film that not only showcases these cultural treasures but also sparks a global conversation on the importance of preserving Indigenous cultures.

Central to The First Man are themes of identity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a marginalized community. The documentary explores the vital role of language in preserving cultural heritage and collective memory. Through Chief Kreeling's narrative, we shed light on the Khoi San people's struggle for recognition and justice, contrasting it with a modern society that frequently overlooks Indigenous roots. This film serves as a powerful testament to one man's dedication to safeguarding his people’s legacy and motivating future generations.

Convenor: Kiah Johnson. PhD scholar at Magdalene, Cambridge University. Kiah's research explores pastoral transhumance and sustainable land use interacting with modern issues of changing climates on a global scale.

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Host or Publisher Native Spirit Festival & ISDG Cambridge