We Name Ourselves

Once a high-security Pr*son, Malawi’s Dzaleka Refugee Camp now shelters more than 53,000 people, five times its intended capacity. Amid overcrowding, poverty and restriction, a group of teenagers discover an unlikely outlet: spoken word poetry. Through rhythm and verse, they reclaim dignity, confront stereotypes and carve out space for hope. Their words pierce the monotony of camp life while asking a radical question: In a place where people struggle to survive, is art just as essential as food? Once a year, the Tumaini Festival transforms the camp into a vibrant celebration, shattering the harsh reality of daily life and bringing its inhabitants out of the shadows.

This event will feature local artists who will perform before the film. Then, the audience will hear from the film's producer/director.

Following the screening, there will be a reception with food and drinks courtesy of MSU Culinary.

The event is made possible because of the following sponsors: International Studies and Programs, MSU Culinary, Global Studies, African Studies Center and MSU Libraries.

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Host or Publisher Michigan State University International Studies and Programs