On Friday, 8th November 2024, the members of Anaka hosted an event at the Black Box in Belfast under the banner of the Belfast Film Festival. This showreel was shown at the event and showcases some of the materials the group have contributed to the NI Now project. The film provides a sense of the diverse material Anaka have donated to the project.

The showreel highlights the broad scope of the group’s work, from activism and advocacy for the rights of women and refugees, to social schemes that aim to teach the members skills such as gardening and vegetable cultivation. Other films feature extensive interviews with the women of Anaka and facilitators, offering their reflections on the challenges facing migrant women and their families, as well as an educational trip that allowed the women to learn about groundbreaking Belfast social activist Mary Ann McCracken.

Following the film, NAMES OF MEMBERS, all members of the group, joined Elspeth Vischer, the NI Now project’s manager, onstage for a panel discussion. They further discussed the topics raised by the film, the hopes and aspirations of the Anaka members, and offered information on how the public could help. Afterwards, the audience were treated to delicious food made by NAME OF GROUP, which comprises members of Anaka who are trying to gain work in the culinary field.
It was a moving event, demonstrating the wonderful work of this proactive social collective and reinforcing the importance of ongoing support for groups such as Anaka.

Anaka is a women's collective based in North Belfast that seeks to empower and provide support to migrant women in Belfast. Through community-building activities and educational programmes, Anaka fosters an inclusive environment where women from diverse backgrounds can share experiences, build skills, and advocate for their rights.

Film compiled and edited by Elspeth Vischer

• Anaka