ZANZIBAR SOCCER QUEENS is a documentary that presents fresh insights into other lived experiences and realities in Africa, particularly women’s experiences. The stories of the players of Women Fighters present a complex and diverse perspective of untold African Herstories: visions of hope; self-determination; empowerment; solidarity; aspirations and personal identity. These women cross the boundaries of how a woman should be in their society. They are undertaking extraordinary steps to define and determine their ambitions and fate. I was attracted to their courage and efforts to achieve personal goals beyond the cramped borders of gender lines, traditional and cultural expectations that prescribe of how women should dress or behave.  

My aim was to present a constructive view of women who are courageous to define and assert their own destinies instead of having fate imposed on them. What I experienced throughout the filming was a strong desire to better their lives; health wise, and in socio- economic terms, – what every human being aspires to wherever they live. 

When I first met the women during my research trip in December 2005, I was very much attracted to their abilities, football activities and their passion for the game. I made this film because I wanted their unknown realities, voices, dreams, and inspiring stories to be heard and seen beyond Zanzibar. I felt strongly that they must be represented because their stories reveal a different reality, a great deal about ourselves, our societies and how we live. Their stories are underrepresented points of views which usually go unnoticed; part of the myriad untold stories in Africa, as well as perspectives that move beyond the simplistic stereotypes of war, poverty, famine, disease and so on.

I was very privileged to have access to a community of strong-willed women with common ambitions. The beauty of what they do and how they want to be and be seen co-exists with the echoes of oppositions as well as the exotic and beautiful textures and rhythms of Zanzibar.

ZANZIBAR SOCCER QUEENS is also a celebration of the women’s efforts and courage to pursue their dreams. I hope that through this film, a small slice of their complex lives, their football dreams and personal aspirations have been accurately documented. I also hope this film will ensure that the players of Women Fighters would not be forgotten. Remembering them is a chance to imagine other realities in Africa. I sincerely admire their passion; strength; beauty; and their courage to define what they want and how they want to be seen.

• Our World in Zanzibar: Women's Migration Stories, 2007
• Zanzibar Soccer Queens, 2007
• My Mother: Isange, 2005
• Sisters in Law: Stories from a Cameroon Court, 2005