Film production aims to change Somali stereotypes

NAIROBI – A group of Somali youth living in Kenya wants to encourage Somalians living in the diaspora to preserve their cultural roots.

The group is based in Eastleigh and hopes to achieve its goal through their film production company called Eastleighwood.

It’s hoped the company will attain the same success as Bollywood and Nollywood.

Eastleighwood founder Abraham Iman said company’s mission is to change the negative perception the world has about Somalians.

“If you look or sound like Somali you are a terrorist. Our dream is actually to fight negative stereotypes,” said Iman.

Hassan Abdirsaak is an aspiring actor that is pleased by the establishment of Eastleighwood.

The 23-year-old was born in Somali and he lost both his parents in the country’s terrible war.

“Eastleighwood is helping me. They are teaching us how to act and I have already done some plays and two movies,” said Abdirsaak.
-eNCA