By Jemima Oloo
USIU-Africa’s School of Communication, Cinematic and Creative Arts unveiled their labor of love, a well-crafted and executed film titled Jabari, last weekend at Diamond Plaza II, Anga IMAX Cinema.

The premier was graced by the Interim Vice Chancellor, Omolola Omole-Odubekun who could not hide her joy and excitement over the wonderful work put in to produce the film. Also, in attendance was the DVC, Academics-Transformation, Teaching, Learning & Research Prof. Amos Njuguna and Dean, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Martin Njoroge.

The film produced by Rachel Diang’a, a film scholar and Professor at the School of Communication, Cinematic and Creative Arts and Directed by Nas Sheikh, a USIU-Africa student, is a tale about Jabari, a young man with a dream (dreams za kutoka kwa Block)- Swahili translated to dreams of making it out of the hood, as he aspires to beat all odds hurled at him.

The film scripted by Celine Mutuku walks us through a pursuit of passion, Jabari a young man from a humble home with nothing but sheer determination to continue what was started by his late father, to be nothing but an exemplary rugby player.

A powerful cinematic experience captures raw emotions of a mother determined not to lose a son to the same fate that killed her husband and a son who set his whole life in honoring a memory of fallen hero – his father.

Edwin Rabango acting as Jabari does a good job embodying resilience and is the hallmark of no matter what it takes, it must be done. The cast consisting of Prof. Valerie Adema (Jabari’s mother), John Sande (Coach), Moureen Kahiti (Jabari’s love interest) and the other actors play a remarkable role supporting Jabari achieve his dream.

The premier had an overwhelming support from students, faculty, and staff who had lined up for their tickets even before the screening was set to start. The crew consists of Director Nas Sheikh, 1st Assistant Director, Benjamin Owuor, 2nd Assistant Director, Eric Cantona, Scriptwriter, Celine Mutuku, Editors Michelle Muthigani and Ted Mureithi, Graphics Designer, Wakeel Kilonzi and many others.

For those who missed the premier, good news, you can now watch it from 13-19, October at Anga IMAX Cinema, Diamond Plaza 2 at only 500 KSH. For any queries contact +254 721 114 515.